I never told my sister-in-law that I was a Colonel in Army Intelligence!

“Who put her outside?” the paramedic asked.

Sarah opened her mouth, ready with an excuse, but I looked at her, and she stopped.

“I did,” Sarah said sharply, trying to regain control. “She was contagious.”

The paramedic’s face hardened. “She’s five.”

I rode with Lily to the emergency room, holding her hand while monitors beeped and nurses worked with practiced efficiency. The doctor confirmed pneumonia, worsened by exposure. Another hour, maybe less, and the outcome could have been catastrophic.

Continue reading…