Convo: Charlie - Blog Posts
Julia nodded at the mention of not thinking about actually working here, but the sad reality was a lot of their patients were here for a while - and there would be something to be said for them being able to have help with their schoolwork from a friendly face. “You can of course leave them around for parents who are just bringing their children in for outpatient treatment or shorter stays, but if you were up for doing some work with out more long term patients that would also be an attractive prospect for us.” It was true their parents were dealing with big hospital bills (something Julia took great issue with but had no control over) but at the same time she didn’t feel right in this woman not getting paid either. “Well perhaps there is some way we could work out a reduced rate for patients, after all it’s not fair that you don’t get paid for your work.”
“Charlie, lovely to meet you, I’m Doctor Julia Sato.” Glancing down at the pamphlet where sure enough it stated Charlie’s name where she pointed. As for the anxiety it was understandable, a lot of people found hospitals anxiety inducing, which is why she gave her what she hoped was a reassuring smile. “It’s understandable, but there is really no need to be anxious. I know hospitals can be stressful but I promise we don’t bite.” @callmecharliejones
"I do up to ages about, um ten? eleven? and I... actually haven't thought about working here." Charlie said nodding at the doctor curiously but of course kids that had long stays at the hospital might need some help keeping up with school. Even though they shouldn't, they probably had enough to deal with if they were ill. "Oh but I can't possibly charge for that, honestly. That'd be heartless, right? They're ill, their parents probably have too much on their mind already." She pouted to herself, already feeling sad about the whole situation but wanting to do it anyway.
She looked up at the other and gave her a small smile. "Sorry, I'm Charlie." She pointed at the pamphlet in the doctor's hand. "And I'm way too sensitive and terrible with hospitals. And when I'm anxious, I can't stop talking. Nice to meet you."
Julia was just catching up on some paperwork at the nurses station - for once things had quietened down a bit (famous last words) so she could take a breather. Her coffee sat next to her forgotten as it so often was because despite being incredibly smart when it came to her own self care she had the memory of a goldfish. Tucking some hair behind her left ear she initialed a box when she felt a tap on her shoulder, looking up with the expectation of seeing an intern or nurse who needed something, but instead she was faced with a woman she’d never seen before.
About to ask if she was looking for a patient it soon became clear that wasn’t there reason for being here, listening to the request with a small smile. “Oh, how sweet. No, of course I’d be happy to help. I actually think it would lift quite a few kids spirits to have someone come in and help distract them for a bit. Not that I’m diminishing your tutoring to just a distraction, but you know what I mean. Often the older ones end up actually missing being at school.” She looked back down at the pamphlets again. “Tell me more, do you do all ages?” @callmecharliejones
starter: closed for @drjuliasato
where: pediatric ward.
The hospital wasn't Charlie's favorite place. Well, she supposed it wasn't anyone's favorite place but Danny had sad it would be a good idea to put up pamphlets in the pediatric ward of the hospital he worked at and Danny was full of brilliant ideas, so with shaky hands and a deep breath, she headed inside and as she saw a woman in a white coat, she came over to tap her shoulder.
"Hi, I'm so sorry to bother you. I promise I won't take long." She started. "My friend Daniel works here, he said I could put some pamphlets up. I'm a teacher. I'm looking for some kids to tutor." She handed her one of the handmade and photocopied pamphlets she made herself, with silly drawings, flowers, stars, hearts, a few bunnies here and there and her contact number. "Could you help me? If you are not too busy of course. I'm sure you have a million kiddos to see. I don't want to be an imposition. I can wait for your break as well, or come some other time."