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Nurse Danny to the Rescue with a School In-Service Presentation!

By Anisa D.

So it is the start of the school year and there are a million and one things on my mind. School supplies, uniforms, book pickup, carpool, after school activities and more (not for one but three boys!). MORE!!! OMG, I have to have an in-service for all the new teachers in Avi's class this year, plus all the adjunct faculty he will be in contact with. Time is of the essence. Luckily, HoG Outreach Nurse Danny is on speed dial!!! Actually on text! I rapidly text him after speaking to the school. We fix a date and we are off to the races. Danny has been GOD send to us. We first found out about Avi having severe hemophilia B when he was 6 months old. Devastated that we were hit with two rare diseases in our kids, Danny became our savior. He literally saw Avi grow and us becoming more relaxed about the situation. Well, Danny is to the rescue again.

He met me at the Lovett Lower School. Avi will be starting the 2nd grade. It is a tradition for me to bring something for the teachers as they listen and ask pointed questions. This year it was Smoothie King (they too are on speed dial!) Armed with 25 smoothies, we both walked in. We were greeted by all the specialty teachers and Avi's homeroom teachers. The Principal and Assistant Principal were there too. They have now heard this in-service 3 times. It never fails to amaze me that there are angels who keep you going. Both of them are angels to us. They accepted Avi for who and what he has and have had an amazing outlook in welcoming Avi there.

Danny talks about the details of severe hemophilia B. Risks, treatment options, do's and don'ts, daily routines, after school activities, and more are discussed. When he is finished, the teachers all have smiles on their faces as Avi has been filling in some of the gaps as a co-presenter. At 7 years of age, Avi is just excited about school and is ready to get the in-service done with. After a few questions, Danny has spent some quality time with the people who will make the most difference in Avi's life over the next year. What Danny does not realize, is that he has made the most difference in our life as silent teacher, partner and friend. Avi hugs him good-bye and Danny promises to see him soon. Danny reminds him that he will need to learn to do his own treatments and it is time to start now.