Heaven Sent
Heaven is an absolute angel. She speaks softly as she shares her story of what brought her to Bloorview Kids Rehab.
“I have scoleosis” says Heaven. “It developed after leg reconstruction surgery so I came to Bloorview for therapy.”
Heaven underwent spinal fusion surgery, before arriving at Bloorview for physiotherapy, occupational therapy, art therapy and school.
Here’s what Heather wrote about her experience at Bloorview days before being discharged.
Reflections by Heaven Smith, age 15
I don't know if it would be appropriate to call it one of the 'best' experiences of my life, but it was certainly one of the most unexpected. The car ride to Bloorview was, well, let's say I was an emotional wreck. A billion thoughts and emotions were racing through me all at once. I was scared, excited and sad all at once and I was crying, but I wasn't sure if the tears were tears of joy or not.
At first, before I met the awesome people I now proudly address as my friends, I didn't feel like I belonged there. I just wanted to go home. I remember how the first few days went by so slowly, before I got a schedule and before the first time I got in the pool and how odd the water felt on my back after a while.
The best part was getting on and riding that bike down the hall. So fast I flew; I'd never felt so free and, at the same time, so in control.
I love watching the other kids blossom too. I swear it's the closest thing to pure magic.
I only have two weeks left, so my days here are numbered. I'm going to miss, not so much this place, but the people. I will carry this experience and the hopes of the people I leave behind here and try to inspire all of them in some way. Never give up. This world may not always be fair but remember - some day everything will all make sense. So, for now, laugh at the confusion, smile through the tears and keep reminding yourself that everything happens for a reason.
October 2009
