Classroom Dedication

Today, I returned to West Penn for the first time since September 7. It was weird. I was nervous. I believe that my mind was unconsciously resisting this visit. Preparing to leave, I ran from my car back into my house at least five times to grab things that I had forgotten.

Turns out, the visit was better than I could have imagined. Today, the radiology department officially dedicated a classroom to Joe. They had already been in the midst of renovating the room. Joe and I were able to see the lovely new paint job many months ago. Now the room has beautiful new flooring and new desks and chairs. But the best part, is the beautiful plaque that is hanging outside of the room. I was told that the room would be dedicated to Joe. I was told that there was a beautiful plaque. I had no idea how lovely the plaque would be. The image in my mind was dinky in comparison to what I saw. Lilly, the lady who allowed me to bother her in her office to vent, cry, rant, and rave was the mastermind behind it all. She is also responsible for the 3 pounds of cheese cubes that I ate today. :)

More people than I would have expected showed up for the dedication. I saw much of the radiology department, several of the wonderful ladies from the 7th floor, and there was even a group from Allegheny General Hospital. Photos were shared. Memories were shared. It was actually very comforting and healing to be back in the presence of all the people who came to mean so much to me. All of these people cared so much for Joe, and in turn cared so much for me. It was good for me to see and hear that Joe hasn't been forgotten. It was reassuring to me to know that not only is Joe remembered, but his life continues to touch and inspire others.

After the dedication, and after eating 3 pounds of cheese cubes and crackers, I floated around the hospital visiting with people. Lilly and I even ran into three of the ladies who took Joe's meal orders each day. Initially, they walked right past me and then one of them spun around and exclaimed, "Karen!" These ladies often smuggled food for me to make sure I was eating, so it was wonderful to see them again.

I am so grateful for the whole radiology department, the nurses and staff from the 7th floor, the lovely ladies from dietary, and the doctors, nurses, and staff from the BMT offices. I hope they each know that.