An unexpected step

Last month, I received an unexpected call from the school, the 6th form, more precisely, from the school nurse. I was at home on the sofa in forced rest mode, forbidden from doing anything, so I wasn't expecting that kind of news at all.

Since he was 7, Baby Chan has categorically refused anything involving needles, whether it’s vaccines, blood tests, or medical care that requires them. It’s not just a small, passing fear; it’s something deep-seated and established that has made many situations complicated over the years.

At the dentist, at the doctor, or during health check-ups, every situation could become difficult. Several important vaccines couldn't be administered, and even routine boosters or Covid-related doses were impossible during that time. This has been a true common thread throughout his childhood and teenage years.

And then came that call.

The nurse told me that he didn't just have one, but two vaccines. I was completely surprised. I think I needed a few seconds to process what she had just said.

After all these years of refusal, it was totally unexpected.

In the moment, I was mostly in shock, then very proud of him. Not a loud kind of pride, but something calmer and deeper. The kind of moment where you realize that a blockage which seemed immovable has finally moved.

A few months away from his 18th birthday, this isn't just a medical detail. It’s a small step that says a lot about him, about his growth, and about his ability to face something that has been a problem for him for a long time.

Nothing is simple or linear with this kind of fear, but sometimes things change without warning. And this time, he took a big step forward.