Alice leaned in and kissed Dana on her forehead before squatting down to help Dana with her shoes.  “I take it you are feeling better this morning.”  Alice looked up, unable to control the big smile that formed when she saw Dana smiling about feeling better.  “I’m sorry.  I should have realized you were wearing clean clothes and moving around on your own this morning.”

“It’s okay.”  Dana slipped her foot into her shoe and waited for Alice to tie it.  Though she loved having Alice help her with stuff she hated feeling like a little kid, having to have someone tie her shoes for her.  “Can we go shopping after my doctor’s appointment?”

Alice gave Dana a confused look.  “I guess.  I mean if you are feeling up to it.  Is there something in mind you want to buy?”

“I want to buy a new pair of shoes.  Either a pair I can just slip on or a pair with Velcro.  At least with the Velcro I can feel like I am four instead of two.”  Dana’s features changed and Alice saw the sadness in her eyes.

“Dana just because you need help putting your shoes on does not mean you are a helpless child.  You have made a lot of progress and I don’t mind helping you with your shoes.  Unless you quit washing your feet and they begin to stink.  Then we may have a problem.”  Alice was relieved when she heard Dana laugh.  She was hoping to keep the mood light and keep Dana’s spirit up.  It had been at least a week since she had seen Dana’s spirits lifted like they were this morning. 

_____

Dana and Alice were both surprised when they arrived at Dr. Kelly’s office only five minutes late.  Dana made Alice promise not to drive like a maniac and was happy when Alice agreed and didn’t argue.  After signing in at the front desk they were escorted back to Dr. Kelly’s office.

“Good morning Dana.  Good morning Alice.”

“Good morning Dr. Kelly.”  Alice and Dana began to laugh as they said their greeting in unison. 

“You are looking much better today Dana.  How do you feel?”

“I feel better too.  I still felt weak and nauseous up to last night.  But I woke up this morning feeling fine.  I feel more energized and I no longer feel nauseous.”