After settling in at the new hospital and happily off the respirator, it was time to face the world. My medical staff thought so but I was not ready yet. I began to question my identity. Was I just the guy in the wheelchair or was I the same kid before I got injured? My family thought the latter of course. I tried to find excuses but nobody was buying them. The day came and I and a group of patients from the hospital went on a field trip to of all places, the Mall of America. The Mall of America was significant for me. It was where I worked, hung out, and met a lot of friends. Would some of those friends recognize me or would they avoid me? When we arrived I was miserable and uncomfortable the entire time.
Looking back now, I am glad it was the first place I visited. I was pushed into facing my fears and I overcame it.
liferetool 