#10 Abuse and Resilience

I've met a school-age boy who was admitted in the ward. He was such a happy-go-lucky kid. I didn't see any caretaker with him like other patients do. As I was waiting for my lecturer, I had a quick chat with him and another patient beside him just for fun. Those two kids are just adorable and this boy is such a joker. I've noticed some scars on his face and arms which made me suspicious. Then I read his case file. I almost teared up after I've finished reading it. He is a victim of child abuse. His parents are divorced and he stayed with his father and stepmother. His stepmother constantly hit him to the point where she did cut him on the shoulder. His father and stepmother was arrested for physical abuse. Subsequently he stayed with his biological mother and younger sister. One day, his mother left him and brought his sister away. He was left alone in the house and he was found by the rental house owner a few days later. The man brought him over to the police and he was referred to the hospital for treatment. There were some comments written where he is a friendly kid, constantly talk to other patients, accompanies them when the parents are away, and keen in helping the hospital staffs. I was amazed by how resilient this kid is despite the ordeal. It is heartbreaking that child abuse is a common issue where it is always being broadcasted in the news. I never met a victim of child abuse until now. This kid had so many scars on his body (based on the file) and yet, he can still smile and chat with other kids in the ward. I guess he had been through so much and being neglected in the end was the best option for him so that he won't feel pain anymore.

#abuse #neglect #paediatric