“I’m not little!” Kyle bites back, making us all laugh.
“Sorry, of course you’re not.” I hold my arms up in surrender.
“He’s hanging in there. Been complaining of a stomach ache,” his dad speaks up.
“Yeah, that’s a side effect of the meds we have him on. I’ll see if we can get him something for that. I came in here with some good news, though.” His parents turn their attention fully to me. These days, any good news is more than welcome, and it shows on their faces.
“My buddy and I are putting on a donor drive to search for a match. He even got his law firm to sponsor the event.”
“That’s amazing.” His mom walks over to hug me.
“Let’s just hope we find someone.” I hug her back then turn to Kyle. “Till then, I think we’re due for a rematch. Let me finish my rounds, and I’ll come back for you.”
“You got it. I’ll be here,” Kyle says with excitement in his eyes.
“Oh, I almost forgot. Can I get a picture of you to put on the flier we’re making to hand out for the drive?”
“Ugh, really? Do I have to?”
“Now, Kyle, this is a really cool thing they’re doing for you. Be nice,” his mom says to him.
“Fine. But only if you’re in it too,” Kyle says to me.
I shrug. “That’s all I have to do? Man, I’m going to try to keep this tactic in mind for the future.”
He gives me a don’t-try look. He’s not always the easiest patient but, for being a young kid, his courage is amazing.
His mom holds up my camera, and I squeeze in next to him on the bed, wrapping my arm around his little body. We smile big for the picture I hope will pull on people’s heartstrings and prompt them to come get tested.
