I started a short story last Sunday that is based on true tales passed down from my mom and older sister. The story takes place during a time when the full raging effects of the Great Depression had displaced so many.
We met Walter and Ella Smith, who are living with their three children in a small wood-frame house that Walter built for $50 out of used lumber and bent nails. But, it was a sight better than the tent they’d occupied before the drafty tiny house. When we left them, Walter had gone off to work at the gas station and Ella had been summoned from hanging clothes on the line by her oldest daughter. The baby, Charlie, was bleeding. We’ll rejoin them now and see what has happened.
Ella burst through the door and gasped when she saw Charlie sitting in the middle of the floor wailing with blood running from his mouth.
“Jane, what happened?”
The eight-year-old girl sobbed. “I don’t know, Mama. Me and Celie were playing and he started crying.”
Ella scooped up the crying baby and examined his mouth. Tiny shards of glass could be seen.
A look back at the floor revealed more glass.
She grabbed a quilt off the bed and wrapped it around him. “Jane and Celie, get your shoes on quick! We’ve got to go get help.”
Running like the devil chased her, Ella flew down the hill with the two girls close behind.
She banged on the door of her nearest neighbor.
A white-haired man opened the door. “What in tarnation is wrong, Ella?”
“Please, help me, Mr. Fagan, I’ve gotta get my baby to the doctor. He’s bleeding awful bad.” She swiped at the tears streaming down her face. “And he has glass in his mouth.”
The old man moved like cold molasses. “Well, then. Let me get my coat and I’ll drive you to Doc Davis’s.”
“Thank you, sir. But, can we hurry?” She attempted to soothe the squalling baby in her arms.
Panic gripped her heart tight, like a vise around a ripe melon. She feared it might explode from the pressure. Guilt overtook the fear and she chastised herself for not taking the younguns outside with her. It’s just that it was so cold.
Mr. Fagan hobbled out to the rusted 1934 Chevy coupe and groaned when he slid behind the wheel.
Ella wasted no time getting the girls into the car before joining them on the narrow seat.
“Sh,” she rocked the crying baby. “Can we hurry, Mr. Fagan? I’m so scared.”
The old man ran a gnarled hand through his white hair and started the engine. “Don’t reckin I ever heard of a baby eatin’ glass before.”
“Me neither,” Ella managed.
“Where’s Walter?” The old man asked.
“Working at the station today. Can you stop by there on your way home, and let him know?”
The old man nodded and pulled to a stop in front of the corner building where the doctor’s shingle hung.
Ella sprang from the car. “Jane, hold your sister’s hand.” They rushed inside the doctor’s office.
Oh my goodness . . . I’m rushing to the next segment. I’m so scared for Charlie. 😮
Thanks for joining in, Robbie!
Oh my, a mother’s worst nightmare.
An intense scene, Jan. An injured and bleeding baby is every mother’s nightmare. I’m looking forward to the next installment. 🙂
Thank you, Diana. I’m happy you stopped by!
Oh, my gosh. I’m sick with worry! And to know this is inspired by something that really happened? What a nightmare. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
Yes, Staci, this story was passed down from my mom and older sister, so it really happened. Of course, these characters are not real, but they seem real to me. 🙂 Thanks for stopping by! Hugs!
I’m eager for them to go into the doctor’s office. Wow, not sure I stand the wait until next week:) I pictured this so easily and felt the mother’s panic. Well, done Jan.
Thank you, Denise. The panic would be real, for sure. And, especially considering the time period of the story. I appreciate you stopping by! Hugs!
What a scary segment, Jan. I can’t imagine what Ella must be feeling. Excellent story-telling!
Thank you, Mae! I am thrilled that you stopped by and left a comment!
I can’t imagine what could be more frightening than a baby bleeding that way… Well told, Jan. Hugs.
Thank you, Teagan. I am happy your stopped by. Yes, it would be horrifying!
Wow, this is gripping. I’m glad you’re using this story. The remedy is still so unbelievable. Those old doctors knew a whole lot more than these today it seems. Very good, sister!
Thank you, sister. I think everyone will be surprised at the doctor’s remedy. I know I was, the first time I heard the story. I appreciate your comment! I love you!
Gosh.. MY heart sank when I thought about a baby eating glass…
I know, Annette. And, remember this really did happen. It didn’t happen to my brother, but to my oldest sister. Wait until you see what the doctor’s remedy was! 🙂 Thanks for stopping by!
I know you have to stop the story somewhere, Jan. I can’t wait until next week. Well. I guess I have to wait. Excellent story.
Thank you, John. Coming from you, I take that as a high compliment!
It was meant to be. Of course hanging here on the cliff does challenge the fingernails.
OH Jan, you naughty girl!! You certainly have a talent for keeping us intrigued and hanging until the next week with your stories. I’m on pins and needles wondering if Charlie will be okay. Can’t wait to see. Merry Christmas and may you have an amazing week.
Thank you SO much, Tonya! Your comment made my heart very happy today. I appreciate you stopping by and leaving a comment! Hugs! Have a wonderful day! Love you!