Wednesday, March 26, 2008

Oh My! Today My Cup Is Overflowing!

I am so elated and in a heightened state today. I had an incredible experience and I can only attempt to capture its beauty in words.

I'm sure that most of you know that two and half years ago Ryan and I gave birth to a son that passed through this life in my womb. We delivered on the 6th floor of Centennial Women's Hospital. It was a life-opening and life-changing experience. I've always wanted to give back to that high-risk maternity floor, but never knew exactly how. At one point, I even attempted knitting a baby blanket since some kind-hearted woman had done the same for me. But that never came to fruition.

About a week ago, the receptionist at work booked a prenatal massage outcall. For all the receptionist knew I am a certified prenatal massage therapist and I had an opening. She suggested I call the client because she was in the hospital and needed to explain her situation. When I was on the phone with her, she let me know that she had been in the hospital since she was 16 weeks along with twins. The little girl passed, but the boy is holding strong. She's been on bedrest there for 80 days, and her doctor let her know that a massage would be great for her. She called around town but no one would call her back. She found the massage studio where I work and tried again. Well, we spoke briefly about my previous circumstance. Come to find out she is at Centennial Women's Hospital on the 6th floor using the same doctors as we did. For a week now, I have been "Jones-in" for this day to come.

So today I arrived with a body pillow, a radio, some relaxation music, lotion, lavender essential oil, and a homemade room spray. While she was preparing for the massage, I dimmed the lights, made sure the window was open for some fresh air, set the Native American flute music in its proper place, dabbed some lavender oil on a tissue for her pillow, and spritzed the linens with a lavender, rose, and jasmine concoction I proudly made for my Doula clients. After learning how to adjust those electronic hospital beds, we started the massage.

When I placed my hands on her back, she started having an emotional release. Later I reassured it that it was normal. I explained how we store all the things that happen to us physically and emotionally in our bodies, and it was perfectly fine for her to cry. I spent an hour working those achy bed tired and emotionally drained muscles. When we were done, we sat and talked for awhile. She opened up about the journey she's on, and I was able to listen and encourage her. We talked about not being angry at God or the universe and finding peace. We discussed about how going on this journey with our life partners has made our relationships stronger. We shared about how the people you expect to come around you at this time aren't always the ones you thought, but all the while openly receiving the embrace of those who surprise you. I am trusting that it was a very healing and therapeutic session for her because I know it was for me. I felt very rewarded in my career today, and I look forward to another session with her in a few weeks.

8 comments:

Anonymous said...

I firmly believe that things happen for a reason - big or small, readily evident or not. You have many gifts that make our lives all the better every day. But today was your day - God bestowed a gift upon you. He connected your caring hands and loving heart with an individual who desperately needed it. And in doing so, you were able to heal and grow and the other was able to see strength and beauty through the hardship and heartache which both of you share. Now you know what we feel every moment we are able to spend with you. Much love Jim and Choyer

Treva said...

Kari,

What a beautiful story, and a great confirmation of your career choice! Hope that you and Ryan are doing well.

Anonymous said...

Wow Kari what an amazing experience. Glad you were able to have it and get a little more peace. Hilary

logan sandrock said...

I well remember that day in the hospital with you, and it delights me to no end that your hands and your presence were able to bring healing and emotional release to this woman.

If I was ever pregnant, I can't imagine wanting anyone but you there for me. Of course, if /I/ was pregnant, there'd probably be a lot of scientists and papparazzi, but I bet Ryan would be great as a bouncer.

Anonymous said...

Thanks for sharing this. Sounds like a great experience. In addition to all of your other skills and gifts, this one stands out. That is your gift of connecting with people and helping them. We have known this since you were a little girl. Continue to use this gift and your life will be rich. We are so proud of you. Mom and Dad

Anonymous said...

It really is amazing how God prepares us for future appointments and at the time of our preparation, we have no clue what God has in store.

I'm so glad that you were able to help that woman at her time of need. I hope that God continues to use you to help others. :-)

Mandi Mitchell said...

wow. That is awesome. God is so good.

Anonymous said...

What a wonderful experience for you. And how great it must be to be able to help someone like that. You have a special talent
and I know it makes you feel good to use it in such a way.

Love,
Martha