My Mascot
The nursing aides for the
89-year-old man planned a surprise party for him. This
active and alert retired doctor had his leg amputated
two years ago. It had been a struggle to adjust to living
his life with only one leg, spending most of his time in a wheelchair.
Family, friends and volunteers
filled the brightly decorated room. He looked at the group and signaled
a sweet six-year-old girl, the grandchild of one of his aides, to come
over to him. He reached out and put his arm around her. He introduced her
and announced, "She is my mascot!" He went on to tell the group assembled
that he would never forget the first time she visited.
She came in, looked at him and his folded up pants leg
in the wheelchair, and in her charming voice asked,
"Where is your prosthesis?" He was astounded she knew
the word. She showed him her prosthesis and told him her story. When she
was three years old, a man broke into her home, killed her 17-month-old
brother and, with a machete, cut off her leg.
He said this young girl
taught him not to complain and to be grateful for the 88 years during which
he had two legs. They share a very special bond. She feels proud that she
was able to help a very old man. He has a very special smile for the young
girl who walks with joyful and energetic steps, the prosthesis removing
all barriers from her path.
By Hedy J. Dalin
from A Cup of Chicken Soup for the Soul
Copyright 1996 by Jack Canfield, Mark Victor
Hansen & Barry Spilchuk