When a Nonverbal Child is Sick

Have you ever wished that your child would complain?

We have. We do.

This sweet boy is so sick. Sicker than we originally thought.

But we didn’t know. Because everyone else in our family is sick too. And everyone else has the ability to complain.

‘Mom I don’t feel good.’

‘My head hurts.’

‘I feel hot.’

The remedies are pretty standard.

Cough drops and popsicles for sore throats. A seat by the fireplace to combat the chills. Soup and ginger ale for a sore tummy. A bed on the couch with a cool sheet.

The understanding that medicine will help you feel better. And take the pain away.

Not this one.

He wouldn’t use or do any of those things. Which can make providing comfort harder.

He isn’t able to tell us what hurts. He isn’t able to point to a part in his body. Or tell us if he has the chills.

I wish he could tell us. I wish he could complain. I wish he could tell us what he needs.

One of my greatest fears is that one day he will be really sick, like dangerously sick, and we won’t know. What if we miss it?

We would listen to every word. And until that day comes, if it comes, we will watch every action, seek out every sign and symptom and never stop trying to provide him comfort.

Right now he’s snuggled up watching The Price is Right reruns. It sounds like a good one. Someone just won a new car. He gave me a clap for that one.

This kid. He’s just so sweet.

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