When I am in the hospital to visit my injured parent and I squirm, cry, or fuss, I may be saying, “I am hungry, tired, or I have been here too long and I need a break. The tension in here is getting to me. I am feeling stressed.” You can support me by bringing along food I like and my bottle or sippy cup. Find a quiet place where we can sit together and eat. Or put me in my stroller and rock me back and forth. Try to find a place where I can take a little nap. If possible, bring someone we know and trust who can take me to the lobby, the TV room, or outside to play. Try to take care of yourself as much as possible—accept support when you can. Caring for yourself will help you to be more patient with me.
