Later, when replacement bands were printed, staff used the information attached to those bassinets instead of independently verifying each baby against her mother.
The first mistake had created the second.
The band hadn’t disproved Caleb. It had carried the error forward.
Before we were discharged, the administrator returned with a written notice.
It didn’t undo what happened.
The hospital had suspended that re-banding process. From then on, a new infant band required verification against the parent and confirmation by a second staff member.
It didn’t undo what happened.
But at least the mistake would not simply disappear into an apology.
Before leaving, Marissa came to our room.
For a moment, neither of us knew what to say.
“I’m never making fun of my mother’s knitting again.”
Then she gave a tired laugh.
“I’m never making fun of my mother’s knitting again.”
I laughed too.
“And I’m never making fun of Caleb for staring at weird birthmarks.”
“Excuse me,” he said. “I have excellent observational skills.”
Marissa’s husband actually smiled.
Two exhausted mothers behind them.
We took one picture before leaving.
Both babies together.
Two exhausted mothers behind them.
