Chapter 15 - The ophthalmology visit
One week later, Eli’s eye had healed.
No scar on the cornea.
Vision normal.
No lasting sensitivity beyond what he had already had.
The ophthalmologist said:
“Children heal quickly.”
I almost hugged her.
Did not.
Eli asked:
“Can I swim?”
“Yes.”
“Can I play Switch?”
“Yes.”
He looked at me triumphantly.
Medicine had restored civilization.
For weeks afterward, however, he panicked if anyone sprayed:
Hair product.
Cleaning mist.
Air freshener.
Even sunscreen.
His therapist explained:
“Let him see the container. Tell him where it’s going. Give him control when possible.”
So we did.
Spray sunscreen?
“Arm or lotion?”
“Lotion.”
Fine.
Hair detangler?
“Want to spray it into the brush instead?”
“Yes.”
Fine.
Not forever.
May you like
While fear was fresh.
Safety without turning the whole world into danger.
