Wonder where she is?

It's about time for the doctors to come in and visit here on the 4th floor, so I am waiting to hear the latest rundown on my blood count and its ability to clot, etc. I would say that these are things I never knew would be the topic of breakfast conversation, but I did know that older people talk about that kind of stuff (way too often)...just didn't realize I'm now "older." Damn. I think I will make PJ promise to just go ahead and shoot me if I discuss my medicines and ailments over dinner with friends.

So anyway, for the last several days I have been awakened by the voice of a PCA (I think that is code for "patient care assistant") named "Wonder." I haven't heard her today, so I'm positive she's off. How to describe Wonder...I'm not sure I can do it justice, but I wish so badly that I had a picture. She's a muscular black woman who appears to be in her late forties to mid fifties maybe? (I have no idea.) Her voice is deep and raspy and she speaks in sort of a sing song Baptist preacher pulpit kind of rhythm. I've only seen her in her scrubs, so I don't have an idea of what her "style" would be. Her hands are large and rough and she has big pouty lips and large white teeth. Her hair is cut very close to her head and she wears glasses and a simple earring. The day I met Wonder, I felt like I had hit the jackpot. I could tell immediately that she was going to be the entertainment around here. At first meeting, I had no idea if she was a woman or a man, and even after conversing with her for a good while, I still didn't know. (Obviously, my powers of deduction have come to a conclusion on that by now.)

Wonder has worked in this hospital for 28 years. One morning, she spent a long time explaining to me why she chose this particular shift to work rather than the normal PCA shift. She has it figured down to the penny the amount of money she would lose by working the three 12 hour shifts that most PCA's work vs. her four 8 hour shifts and every other weekend. She's right...every penny counts, I guess. Through chatting with her, I've learned that she never married, has no children and eight siblings. She has a twin named - get this -  "Donder." She spent a good while describing the twin connection to Bobbie Jo one morning and I'm sure Bobbie Jo now wishes she had never asked about it...or maybe it was PJ who asked but Bobbie Jo is who got caught listening to the whole story...either way, it was an interesting way to pass the morning.

And so for the last week, I have been entertained by Wonder and her tales and her mannerisms. She loves her job...truly...and that in itself was enough to keep me fascinated for a good long while. She introduces herself to every visitor that every patient may have, and spreads her good mood up and down the hall here all day long. She talks about (with complete sincerity) how honored she is to meet so many people and to serve and help so many sick folks. She shares stories of her family and their huge camping trips with all of the cousins with anyone who will listen. She is quite possibly one of the happiest and most satisfied people I've ever seen with regard to work. There are RN's, LPN's, respiratory therapists and doctors in and out of here all day, but none have had the smile and genuine warmth of Wonder and I would venture to guess that all of them have better shifts and better pay than she.

Oh how I wish I could feel that satisfied with work. What a blessing.

I have mistakenly called her "Star" several times even in her presence. I'm not sure what that means, but I find it interesting. I told her one morning that I thought she must make me think of the "Star of Wonder, Star of Light" lyric from the Christmas carol "We Three Kings." However, it could be because she has been the feature player in this wacky black comedy I now find myself living here in this hospital.

I just found out I can't go home today. I sure could use Wonder about now. I hope she's enjoying her day off, though.

Comments

[Linh Chin-Lai]

Hey Mandy! Just heard that you are in the hospital. I'm glad you have a WONDERful nurse. Get better soon and join us for National Scrapbook Day - May 5.

[Kay Savage]

So... I'm in Texas and decide to check my emails and the Forum for any exciting "happenings" and what do I find out... YOU are in the hospital. Girl... all I can say is get better, know that I am thinking about you and PRAYING for you!!!! I am so sorry you have had to endure all of this. I will talk to you when I get home. So, I guess neither of us will be at Escape night! LOL. GET WELL GIRLIE! Luvs ya!