Try to make the best of being ill on holidays like the 4th of July, or any other one for that matter. If you happen to be in the hospital, or have a child in the hospital, there are ways to celebrate to try to make the best of things. Dress in the patriotic colors, pack a picnic basket with themed foods like hot dogs, ice cream, BBQ ribs, or burgers, and hang flags around the room. Even the sickest of patients would crack a smile just to have everyone chime in to help make them feel like they are home or close to it. If you are homebound and not well, try to have a few people over to eat or at least stop by for a short visit, depending on the extent of what the ailment is.
I spent Christmas one year at CHOP. And, although I am Jewish, the personnel of the hospital and everyone who was stuck there as a patient, got together and celebrated in the “play room”. It felt good to have junk food and Santa even came by to bring us gifts. As sick as I was, it was kind of fun! Family did come by and they did not feel so bad since I seemed somewhat content. It is a mindset and I do hope that everyone can chip in and stay positive so that the patient can feel a reason to get well again.
