Friday, August 10, 2007

Friday Fun Client Stories: The laughing matter

Lots of folks labor under the idea that when we serve a victim in the ER, that it is a tense and sorrowful experience. Lots of folks assume that victims cry and are very upset. In fact, most women focus in on the details of cooperating with law enforcement and medical personnel. They may cry a bit, but most of the time, women keep their emotional reaction under control until they have a private moment to let go. But, every victim reacts in a way that is true to their personality and situation.

Today, I was reminded of the laughing moments. We were assisting a woman who was assaulted, nearly killed, and sexually abused by a boyfriend. She reacted in the ways that are totally appropriate for the betrayal of trust she'd experienced. She cried some. She expressed anger. She expressed regret. And, when the doctor was doing the pelvic exam, she expressed the hope that she wouldn't pee all over the doctor.

I like those moments when the victim is able to express the range of emotions - including seeing the ridiculousness of the situation. And, that she trusts that we won't judge her for laughing too.

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