Sky’s the Limit
Book Two

Chapter Eighteen

Thanks to Rec for editing!

Eventually, the group settled into the more-comfortable surgical waiting room.  There were a couple of other small groups of people clustered in the large room waiting on news of their loved ones. With this room’s lounge chairs and sofas, it was possible to get a bit of rest after an extraordinarily difficult day.  Occasionally, a nurse or doctor would come by or call on the “hot line” to reassure them that Jonah was still hanging in there or that they were doing some additional test, CT scan, or other such procedure.   

Chip could not rest.  He would notice Sarah and Billy both doze occasionally, and Leon, who Chip knew was bound to be exhausted, sat constantly vigilant with the help of several trips to the coffee counter.  Then there was Sky.  Chip watched as the young man would swing from intermittent sobbing to periods of fitful sleep.  He knew it was going to take some time for Sky to get over the ill effects of the meth, but perhaps it was best that he was where he was and around people who were concerned for him. 

Chip tried to break the monotony by surfing the news and weather channels on the waiting room’s television.  It was getting obvious that this storm could be much worse than anyone had predicted.  Billy and Sarah would have to leave as soon as possible, but he knew they wouldn’t want to go as long as Jonah’s condition was uncertain.  Chip went over to the coffee counter, fixed himself a cup of the strong brew, and sat next to Leon at the small dinette-type table. 

“Leon, have you been watching these news and weather broadcasts?” 

“Yessir, it looks like it could get real bad here real soon.  Maybe as early as tomorrow.” 

“I agree.  As soon as possible this morning, maybe around seven o’clock or so, I want you to go to our hotel rooms and get our bags and load them into your Hummer.  The only thing I want you to bring back here to me, though, is my briefcase and a change of clothes.  You’ll also need to go by the apartment and get Sarah’s things.  She said she had already packed everything, but it’s still upstairs in the bedroom.  There will be several bags, but load them up in the Hummer, too. Oh, and stop by the Café Du Monde and get a couple-dozen beignets.  Then come back by here and take Billy and Sarah back to Lakefront Airport and get them loaded on that plane and out of here.” 

“Yessir, but you knows they ain’t gone wanna to leave till they knows Jonah’s okay.” 

“Yeah, I know.  I’ll handle that.” 

“Yessir.”

* * *

Just as daylight began to break through the tinted windows of the waiting room, which was now empty except for Jonah’s support group, Dr. Michaels came in and sat down next to Chip.  Billy and Sarah were both asleep in lounge chairs, and Sky was still fitfully tossing and turning on one of the sofas.  Leon had excused himself to run his assigned errands. 

“Good morning, Chip,” Dr. Michaels began.  “I know it’s been a long night for y’all, but it looks like we can take Jonah into surgery in about an hour.  We’re prepping him now.  My main concern is that leg.  I don’t see any sign of gangrene right now, and we’ve been pumping him with antibiotics.  We’ll do everything we can to save it.  The latest scan of the area of the bullet that entered his chest and shattered the rib shows that it is not as dangerous as we first believed, but we will try to get it out if his vitals are strong enough when we finish with the leg.” 

“Thank you, doctor; you have my full faith, but it is very important.  I know you got his history, but he just got over a bad break to the other leg.” 

“We’ll do everything humanly and medically possible.  The rest is up to him,” Dr. Michaels stated.  

“Thank you, I know you will. Have you been here all night, too?” Chip asked. 

“Yeah, well, first of all, we’re very short-staffed.  I’ve sent my wife and daughters to stay with the in-laws up in Monroe so I wouldn’t have to worry about them.  Also, we’re trying to make preparations for an emergency evacuation, and quite honestly it doesn’t appear that the State or the Federal government has any clue what the evacuation plan is.  We call the emergency-services numbers and keep getting stonewalled.  The hospital administrator is about to have a nervous breakdown.  I called a friend of mine over at Charity; they get the same response – or lack of response.  We each have only a single helipad. It would take days to evacuate one at a time.” 

“That’s ridiculous, the entire city is at or below sea level and surrounded by water.  Surely there is some contingency,” Chip said incredulously. 

“One would think; I’m sure there’s some plan.  We just haven’t been in communication with the right people yet.  I’m sure they’ll contact us if the evacuation becomes necessary, so don’t worry about that.  That storm may miss us entirely; we’ve had false alarms many times.  You have enough to worry about.”  About that time, Dr. Michaels noticed Sky, who was still fitfully tossing and turning.  “Is he okay? Is he a member of the family?” 

Chip sighed. “He’s the reason we’re here.  That’s Skyler, he’s Jonah’s… He’s a very close friend of Jonah who disappeared a few months ago – a runaway.  When Jonah’s sister spotted him down here, Jonah hightailed it down here to rescue him and bring him home.  Anyway, apparently during his time on the street, he got mixed up in drugs and is coming down off some meth.  We think it was the boy’s drug dealer that shot at them.” 

“Oh, I see,” Dr. Michaels said in a somewhat sardonic tone. 

“No, I didn’t tell you the whole thing.  The boy is from a decent and well-off family, but a broken one.  Both parents were intolerant of certain, ummm, issues. The mother thought the boy needed some help but got him the wrong kind; he couldn’t handle it and ran.  As far as I know, drugs were never a part of his life till he got down here.  We found him working in a strip club on Bourbon Street.  It’s very sad, really.” 

“Ahhh, it’s starting to get clearer.”  Dr. Michaels paused and frowned.  “Chip, I had a twin brother, whom I loved dearly.  He died of an overdose when we were eighteen. He couldn’t bear our parents finding out his secret; he was gay, too.”  Chip started to interrupt, but Dr. Michaels raised his hand.  “Don’t sweat it, but yeah, you dropped enough clues.  Look, I’m not supposed to do this, and I’m sure he’s a minor, but I can get some samples of a mild sedative and an antidepressant that may ease his symptoms and help a bit for the next day or so.  I would expect that his appetite will come back with a vengeance.  He looks very thin.  I would get him as much food as he can eat.” 

“Thank you, Doctor.” 

“Glen, Okay?”  

“Okay, Glen,” Chip replied, nodding and shaking Dr. Michaels’ outstretched hand. 

It wasn’t long after the doctor left when Sarah and Billy woke from their naps. 

“Has there been any more news?” Sarah asked groggily. 

“Yeah, the doctor just left.  They’re going to take him into surgery in an hour or so. He’s still holding his own.  Some good news: the bullet that entered his chest isn’t as critical as they thought, but they’re still going to try to remove it if he’s strong enough after the leg surgery,” Chip replied.

“Well, that sounds encouraging,” Billy said.  Then, looking around, he asked, “Where’s Leon?” 

“I sent him to the hotel and the apartment to gather all our things.  As soon as he gets back and everyone has a chance to eat something and freshen up a bit, he’s taking you and Sarah to the airport and putting you on that plane.” 

“I still don’t feel right about us leaving,” Billy almost moaned. 

“Me, either,” Sarah said. 

“This was settled earlier.  I’m going to need you guys there to help coordinate things on that end.  Jonah’s in bad shape.  They still don’t know when or if he will regain consciousness.  Tomorrow is Sunday, so you guys will have to get started as soon as you get back this afternoon. With Jim out of the picture taking care of whatever problems Jessie is having, it’s up to us.  I don’t know what will happen down here with that storm.  It may not even hit here, but I want to be prepared.  If it does, communications, phone lines, et cetera, are usually the first things to go.   I need to know you guys are up there working on getting Jonah home, and if we are stranded I don’t need to worry about having to take care of you two in addition to the other issues I already have,” Chip stated flatly, glancing over toward Sky. 

“All right, you win.  As usual, your logic is impeccable,” Billy grumbled.  Sarah simply nodded in agreement. 

*** 

After more than hour, a nurse in surgical garb came into the room to inform the group that Jonah had been taken into the OR and the doctors were starting the procedures. She handed Chip a small, white paper bag that she said was from Dr. Michaels.   

As she was leaving, Leon returned, carrying an overnight bag, Chip’s briefcase, and a shopping bag.  Dropping the overnight bag and briefcase on a chair next to Chip, he set the shopping bag on the small dinette and extracted the beignets and a large thermos.   

“A thermos!  Oh, Leon, don’t tell me you remembered!” Chip exclaimed. 

“Yessuh, I brought some café au lait for y’all – and three dozen beignets.  I figured Sky would get an appetite eventually.” 

“Oh, you are wonderful!” Sarah beamed.  

Sky, who had awakened, had been just sitting on the couch with his head in hands.  He looked up at the mention of his name.  “Ummm, I think am pretty hungry,” he stated with almost no emotion. 

“Good,” Billy said.  “That’s a good sign, come over and get something, then.”   

Chip looked inside the bag and read the note that the doctor had left for him.  He then reached in the bag, extracted two pills from the sample packets in the bag, and handed them to Sky. 

“What’s this?” Sky asked. 

“The doctor was here earlier.  You were pretty restless.  I told him about your problem.  He was very sympathetic and sent something to ease the symptoms.” 

 “Thanks, but I wish you hadn’t.  I can get through this.  I don’t want any more drugs.  Drugs have caused me enough problems and almost killed the only person I ever really loved.” 

“That’s an admirable attitude, Sky, but it’s going to be a very long and trying day.   I don’t need a basket case on my hands.  Take them.” 

Reluctantly, Sky took the pills and swallowed them with a sip from the cup of coffee that Leon had poured and handed him. 

Leon pulled another bag out of the large shopping bag. “I stopped by the Walgreen’s on Canal and picked up some toothpaste, toothbrushes, disinfectant wash towelettes, and deodorant.” 

“Leon, you never cease to amaze,” Chip said, smiling at him.

After everyone had eaten their fill of the tasty pastries, finished off the coffee, and had a chance to freshen up, Chip called the pilots to have them ready the plane. He then sent Sarah and Billy reluctantly on their way with Leon.  As they were leaving, Chip promised repeatedly to call as soon as there was any word on Jonah’s condition. 

After they had left, there was an awkward silence as Chip again began surfing the news and weather channels on the television set.  Sky finally broke the silence.   “Chip, I have to tell you again how sorry I am about all this.  It’s all my fault.  If Jonah doesn’t… I mean if anything happens bad… Dammit, if Jonah dies, I can’t live with that.”  He again dropped his head and began sobbing. 

Chip went over to the sofa, sat next to him, and put an arm around the boy.  “Sky, I won’t pretend to know what you’ve been through already or what you’re going through now.  You can’t think that way, though.  You have your own life to live, and you can’t blame yourself for this.  If I have to blame someone, I blame those thugs that prey on kids like you.  Yeah, you’ve made mistakes, but we all do.  That’s how we learn.  Right now, though, Jonah and I need you to be strong for him.  We have to believe with all our hearts that he’s going to be okay.  If you are religious or have faith, pray for him.  We have to be strong for Jonah.” 

“I used to believe in God and Jesus.  My mom made sure of that.  After the way I was treated by people who I thought were Christian, I’m not so sure anymore.  It wasn’t too long ago that I was convinced God and I hated each other.  I’m not so sure I don’t still think that.  Just when I thought I was getting out of this hell I had fallen into, this happens.” 

“Well, at least you still believe there is a God and a hell.  It’s not up to us to question why things happen, Sky.  But no matter what happens, I will do my best to see to it that Jonah’s wishes for your well-being are carried out.  I will help you, Sky, and I know some pretty good lawyers.  You are not alone anymore.” 

“Thank you.  I don’t know what to say.” 

“You don’t have to say anything, Sky.  Just be strong, we’ll all get through this.” 

* * * 

It was a couple more excruciatingly long hours before any word came back on Jonah’s condition.  By then, Leon had returned and was waiting with Chip and Sky.  The nurse called to say that the surgery was completed and the doctor would be back to talk with them shortly.  In just a few minutes, the doctor walked in, still in his OR garb.  

“Glen, how’s Jonah?” Chip asked as the doctor came over. 

“When we got in there, there was still some leakage where we had originally repaired the artery in the leg.  We had to redo that repair, and it was a bit tedious.  I’m still not sure there was adequate circulation to the tissues below the wound; there’s still a high risk that he could lose part of that leg.  The orthopedic surgeon did an amazing job putting that shattered bone back together, but again, he had seen so much of that in Iraq.  Anyway, his vitals were still strong after he finished the leg, so we went ahead and removed the other bullet. He’s still on the ventilator, and I’m going to leave him there and bring him out slowly and see if he starts trying to breathe on his own.  That’s what we want, but he will be on the ventilator at least another twenty-four hours.  I’m going to continue to monitor his brain activity closely.  You should be able to go back to recovery and see him in an hour or so. He won’t be conscious, but you can see him.  Oh, the hospital always has rooms on reserve at the neighboring hotels.  The Hyatt is across the street and adjacent to the Superdome and the Centre shopping-mall complex and is quite nice.  Do you want me to have the staff get you a couple of rooms?” 

“Thanks, doctor, but no; we’ll camp out here or wherever you put us.  I don’t think I could get either of these guys to leave this building until we know Jonah is going to be okay.” 

“Where’s the rest of your group?” Dr. Michaels asked, looking around the room. 

“It wasn’t easy, but I sent them back on the plane we came down on.  I may have been presumptuous, but I’m having them go ahead and make arrangements for Jonah’s transfer and care up there in Memphis.” 

“Not presumptuous at all.  He will need some extended care for a while.  If… When he regains consciousness, he’s going to be in a lot of pain, and he’s going to need a lot of care and therapy for that leg. I hear there’s still a danger of that storm hitting us, too. Outside help is a great idea,”  Dr. Michaels said in as reassuring voice as he could. 

“Thank you,”  Chip stated. 

“Oh, as soon as he’s out of recovery, Jonah will be transferred to the ICU.  There’s a waiting room there similar to this, but you’ll know before they move him.” 

Chip called Billy, Sarah, and Jim and updated them on Jonah’s condition.  Jim was still stuck in Birmingham, as the doctors were performing an emergency C-section on Jessie. The baby would likely be in neo-natal intensive care afterward, but Jim agreed to call David and tell him that Sky was staying in New Orleans until Chip and Jonah made it back to Memphis and that Chip and Leon were looking after him. 

The next several hours seemed to creep by.   Jonah remained unconscious and on the ventilator.  Chip was constantly by his side until he was moved to the ICU, where visits were limited to a few minutes every three hours. Sky and Leon made one more trip over to the mall to get some better food,  as they had tired of the hospital cafeteria fare. 

The ICU waiting room was also crowded with family members of other patients doing exactly what Chip, Leon and Sky were doing: waiting and worrying. 

* * * 

By Sunday morning, it had become painfully obvious that New Orleans was well in the path of what had become a Category 5 behemoth.   Hurricane Katrina, feeding off the warm waters of the Gulf, had become one of largest and most powerful hurricanes on record.  Everyone in the room seemed glued to the local TV news stations and reports or to their portable walkman radios.  Chip tried a number of times to get his laptop connected to the internet, but was frustrated that he couldn’t get reception on his wireless-network card for some reason. 

Around noon, the doctor came in to talk to Chip.  “Chip, the hospital administration has activated something called Code Grey.  It’s extraordinary, but it’s part of the internal emergency procedures the hospital has in case of a natural disaster.  We’ve called in emergency staff, residents, and even medical students who have volunteered for such contingencies and who have supposedly been trained for the ‘what if’ scenarios.  What this means for you is that I want to try to wean Jonah off the ventilator a little sooner than I had wanted, in case we lose power.” 

“I’m not sure I understand.  Doesn’t the hospital have generators?”  Chip asked. 

“Oh, yes, but I don’t want to bet a life on those.  Besides, Jonah’s vitals have improved, and we just upgraded him from ‘critical’ to ‘serious.’” 

“That sounds like good news,” Chip said smiling. 

“Actually, it is.  I am amazed at the boy’s stamina and will.  He doesn’t look that strong, but he must have been in great shape.” 

“He was.  He’s a third-degree black belt and works out constantly in our gym at home,” Chip stated. 

“Ah… discipline, too.  That explains quite a lot.  He is definitely a fighter.  I’m considering starting him on a stimulant to see if he responds.  It must be done carefully.” 

“Whatever you think best, doctor.” 

“I’ll let you know as soon as he shows any more sign of improvement or, I hope, consciousness.  By the way, it’s likely to get crowded here.   People are coming to the hospital to be with family and loved ones instead of staying in evacuation centers or evacuating.   We think there’s already more than a thousand people in the hospital, and we’re expecting a lot more.  Please be patient with us; this is not the norm.  By the way, I’ve arranged for you and your group to use a shower in one of the staff lounges. I’ll have someone take you down there shortly.  I’m sure you would enjoy freshening up before things get really bad.” 

Over the next few hours, Chip watched as hospital personnel were busily moving supplies, carts, cots, and gurneys;  it seemed to be organized chaos.  By that evening, the hospital was awash in people, but everything seemed organized.  People were on mattresses, pallets, and pads on the floors of the waiting rooms and hallways, but everyone seemed calm.  It was as if people believed that everything that could be done had been done.  Leon, Sky, and Chip had staked out a sofa and lounge chair in the ICU waiting room, and others seemed to recognize and honor their claim to them.  Just before the 9:00 p.m. visit, Dr. Michaels came back into the room to talk with Chip.  

“I have some absolutely remarkable news.  He’s actually starting to breathe on his own; he’s fighting the machine.  He may even be trying to come to.  I’m going to try to get him off the ventilator completely over the next couple of hours, and then we’ll see.  I know this is normally the last scheduled visit, but these are extraordinary circumstances.  I think you need to be there with him if does try to wake up.” 

“Oh, please, may I be there, too?  I need to be there,” Sky begged. 

“I don’t see the harm.” Dr. Michaels had to smile at Sky’s pleading eyes that were staring intently into his own.  “I’ll clear it with the nurses.”  With that, he patted Sky on the shoulder and turned to leave. 

“That sounds like good news to me,” Chip said to no one in particular. 

“It sho does,” Leon sighed.  “I seen grown strong men not hit as bad as he was that didn’t make it.  I can breathe and maybe get a little rest now.  Damn, he’s a tough kid, but I guess we knew that already.” 

It wasn’t long before Chip and Sky were headed back to the tiny cubicle-like room where Jonah was plugged into all sorts of monitors. There were several tubes and IVs running to various parts of his body, and, of course, there was the breathing tube coming from his mouth.  When Sky saw Jonah, he immediately began crying, ran to him, and took the only hand that didn’t have an IV running into it, holding it gently.

“Oh, Jonah, I’m sooo sorry… Oh, my God… you’ve got to be alright.  I have to speak to you again, Jonah.  I’ve been sooo stupid and done so many stupid things lately.   I was really messed up, Jonah.  Please…oh God, please, Jonah, please understand. I do love you, with all my heart.   I can’t imagine my world without you in it.  We’ve got the rest of our lives to make things right again. Oh, please, Jonah. 

Chip put his hand on Sky’s shoulder.  “I know it’s a shock seeing him like this, Sky.  I should have prepared you.” 

Sky turned; tears were streaming down his face. “I love him so much, Chip.  I never really realized how much.”  About that time, Dr. Michaels walked in.  

“Guys, I’m going to ask you to step out for just a few minutes while the nurse assists me with this.  As I turn down the machine, I’m hoping he maintains his own breathing at a sustainable level. If that happens, I’ll disconnect him from the machine.  If I’m satisfied he can maintain his respiration, I’ll remove the intubation tube.  All this will take several minutes, but assuming all of that happens, I will leave him on oxygen for a while. 

Chip and Jonah stepped out and found a couple of chairs next to the nurses station, which was in the center of the large room, surrounded by cubicles similar to Jonah’s.  Sky noticed the banks of closed-circuit TV screens and all types of monitors behind the counter.  He could see the monitor in Jonah’s room, but the doctor was in front of Jonah, assuming the doc wasn’t standing in front of the monitor at the nurses station] so Sky couldn’t make out much of what was happening.  He finally gave up and just sat quietly next to Chip. 

After several moments that seemed to Sky like an eternity, Dr. Michaels emerged from Jonah’s “room,” and he was smiling.  “Guys, he’s got good, regular respiration.  His blood sat looks good, but I am leaving him on oxygen.  We will closely monitor him for the next several hours, but he seems to be stable.  I’ll probably officially upgrade his condition soon if there are no complications.  Go spend a few minutes with him now.  The nurse has been instructed to page me the minute there is any change either way.” 

“Thank you,” Chip and Sky said almost in unison. 

Chip and Sky went back into the tiny room.  Sky again took Jonah’s hand and just held it as he felt the tears welling in his eyes.  Chip watched Sky with Jonah for a few minutes. Sky would gently squeeze Jonah’s hand, and he would stroke Jonah’s hair with his other hand.  If Chip had any doubt that this boy was in love with Jonah, all of that doubt was quickly being eroded away. 

Chip found a stool in a corner and sat while he watched these two boys for several minutes. Sky began to softly whisper in Jonah’s ear.  With all of beeping of the monitors and other soft noises in the room, Chip couldn’t make out what he was saying.  Suddenly, Sky bolted upright and his eyes got big. 

“Chip! He squeezed my hand… and I think he blinked!” 

“Keep talking to him.  I’ll get the nurse.” 

In mere seconds, the nurse was in there manually checking his vitals and studying the monitors.  “His heart rate is up a bit, as is his respiration.  He may be trying to come around.  Keep talking to him. I’ll page the doctor.” 

Sky was feeling tears of hope and joy now.  “Jonah, it’s me, Sky.  I’m here baby.  I promised I would never ever leave you again… I won’t. I swear to God I won’t, but you can’t leave me, either.  Come back to me, Jonah, please wake up and come back to me.” 

Sky jumped. “He did it again!  I swear he did it again. He squeezed my hand again.  It wasn’t much, but he did it.” 

“That’s wonderful, Sky.  Keep talking to him.”

“Jonah, it’s me, Sky.  I know you can hear me.  I feel you squeezing my hand.  Wake up, Jonah;  please, please wake up.  I know you can hear me.  I need to see your beautiful eyes again, my love.” 

Jonah blinked.  Enough so that even Chip could see it. 

“I’ll be damned.  He can hear you.  Jonah, this is Uncle Chip.  We need you to wake up, please. We’re here for you.  We need you to wake up.  You try some more, Sky.  I’ll see what’s keeping the doctor.” 

When Chip got back to the room, Sky was softly singing to Jonah, 

So excuse me forgetting, but these things I do.
You see, I've forgotten if they're green or they're blue
Anyway, the thing is, what I really mean,
Yours are the sweetest eyes I've ever seen. 

And you can tell everybody this is your song.
It may be quite simple, but now that it's done,
I hope you don't mind;

I hope you don't mind that I put down in words,
How wonderful life is while you're in the world.

“Oh, Chip, I’m sorry. I didn’t see you come back in. Ummm, Elton is one of his favorites.” 

“I know.  Sky, don’t apologize.  It was beautiful—and the perfect song.  I know he loves it.” 

“Thanks…. Chip! He’s squeezing my hand again.” 

Chip watched as Jonah’s eyes began twitching, and there was another blink, then two, and Jonah opened his eyes. 

“Omigod!” Sky exclaimed. “He’s awake!  Jonah! I’m here. You’re going to be okay. Everything’s going to be all right again.  I swear to you, Jonah, I’m going to make everything all right again.” 

About that time, the doctor and the nurse scurried into the room. 

* * * 

By early Monday morning, New Orleans, spared from the brunt of the eye wall of Katrina, took a major hit as the storm sideswiped the city.  The storm was taking a more northeasterly track, taking the eye wall just to the east of New Orleans near the Louisiana-Mississippi line. 

Jonah was again resting, but a very relieved Chip, Sky, and Leon were not so fortunate.  The hospital was awash with people.  One of the nurses told them there were at least two-thousand people crowded into the hospital.  The waiting room was cramped and noisy, and everyone was glued to the news reports on the television. 

Chip had finally gotten through to Billy on his cell phone.  The circuits were extremely busy, and it took several tries to get a call out.  The hospital lines were jammed, as well.  Billy and Sarah were relieved that Jonah was improving and coming around.  They also agreed to relay the information to Jim in Birmingham. 

By dawn on Monday, it was obvious that this was a major storm.  The winds were whipping through the streets of the old city, and small debris was beginning to blow around.   Chip and the others, unable to resist peering out the windows, could see sheets of blowing rain, and debris—from parts of buildings and signs to large limbs and other objects—blowing through the air, washing down the flooding streets.   Chip knew that the city had huge pumps to handle flooding rains, but he also knew that if the rains were too heavy, the pumps couldn’t keep up.  Any time it rained more the three or four inches in an hour, the pumps would back up, and the streets would flood.  This was different, though.  There were already several inches of water in the streets, and Chip was beginning to wonder if the levees had failed—the worst-case scenario he had heard and read about for years. 

The windows would rattle and shake, but in the inner parts of the modern hospital, the storm could barely be heard.  It was difficult to concentrate on the storm, though, as Jonah’s condition was also changing rapidly.  About noon on Monday, during the height of the storm, Jonah again woke. After another exam by one of the doctors, Chip and Sky went to be by his side.  The moment Jonah saw Sky, his eyes obviously brightened, and he seemed to manage a very weak smile. 

“Jonah! You’re awake!” Sky exclaimed as he rushed over and took Jonah’s hand. “Don’t try to speak, Jonah. We’re in the hospital in New Orleans, and there’s a bad hurricane going on. Chip and I are here.  Leon’s out in the waiting room.  Sarah and Billy are back in Memphis.  We’re going home as soon as we can get out of here.” 

Jonah looked up at Sky and gently squeezed Sky’s hand. To Sky’s amazement, Jonah managed to whisper, “I love you.” 

“Oh, Jonah, I love you, too, baby.” 

About that time, the lights flickered, then went out for a few moments.  When they came back on, alarms from several pieces of medical equipment were beeping all over the unit.

A nurse rushed in and checked a monitor in Jonah’s room, reset something, then asked Chip and Sky to go back to the waiting room for a few minutes till things got a little closer to normal.  

As they were exiting the unit, they saw Dr. Michaels.  “Hey guys, Jonah is doing remarkably well.  He seems alert and aware, but it’s still too early to give you guys a definitive prognosis.  I am greatly encouraged, though.  Not too soon, either.  This storm is really creating a mess, but the building seems to be holding together.  I heard there were a few windows out on one of the upper floors, and the city has lost power, but our generators just kicked on.” 

“Thank you, Glen.  We were just with him.  He actually spoke a couple of words to Sky.  We are very relieved, also.  Thank you so much for what you all have done.” 

“Just doing our jobs, Chip, but actually Jonah’s done most of the work.  If he makes a full recovery, I’m going to chalk it up to one of those unexplained miracles.  We do see them occasionally, but all too rarely.   All I can say is he must have one heck of a guardian angel or something watching out for him.”   

* * * 

The storm continued to batter the old city for several hours.  Debris that had earlier filled the air, was now littering the flooded streets.  As the storm began to wane on Monday evening, it seemed to Chip from what he was able to glean from reports from the several portable radios in the waiting room that the city had come through this disaster with far less damage than had been anticipated.  Indeed, one could look out of the windows on the upper floors, and see awnings missing, streetlamps and poles down and debris littering the streets, but the downtown skyline looked virtually unchanged. 

Jonah was improving, too.  Every chance they got, Sky and Chip would go back into the unit to be with him.  He was sleeping a great deal but would wake when Sky would take his hand.  He would speak in weak whispers to Sky and Chip, and they would reassure him that everything was going to be okay.  By midnight on Monday night, Chip, Leon, and Sky had managed to take brief naps.   

The hospital had been without running water ever since the lights went out earlier that day, and the air conditioning was not working at full capacity.  With the number of people in the building, conditions were starting to get more than uncomfortable.  Chip heard reports that the entire city was without power and running water.  He had also been unable to get out on his cell phone for the past several hours, and he assumed that no one could reach him, either.   Leon’s cell phone was equally useless.   

In the early morning hours, Chip was awakened from one of his naps by Dr. Michaels.

“What is it Glen?  Did something happen with Jonah?” 

“No. He’s still doing amazingly well.  We’ve got some other issues.  Let’s step into the lounge and talk.” 

Dr. Michaels led Chip through the crowded waiting room, down the hallway littered with people, and into a small private lounge.  Chip could see a couple of staff people catnapping on cots, and a couple of others sitting around a portable radio.  “Chip, we’ve got a possible crisis in the making.  We are going to have to evacuate the hospital.”    

“What’s going on?” Chip asked. 

“We got a call an hour or two ago.  The city and this hospital are slowly flooding.  There’s a lot of speculation about levees, but all I know is the water is rising.  The basement has been taking on water for the last couple of hours.  For now, though, and they tell me for the next several hours, at least, we should have generator power.  Thank God it will be daylight in about an hour.  We are going to try to start evacuating some patients on boats and big trucks that can traverse the water, and they are supposed to be picked up by FEMA ambulances at a rendezvous point somewhere near the interstate.  Quite honestly, though, I don’t think Jonah is up to that.   We’re trying to arrange helicopters to pick up the more critical patients, but our helipad is under water.   We are looking at options.  We may be able to use the roof of the parking garage for a makeshift helipad.  I just want you to know that when the evacuation begins, I will look after Jonah’s best interest, even if it means we have to wait a few hours for suitable transportation.  Also, we have a few patients still on ventilators or other life support that have a priority.” 

“I understand and I appreciate that.  Leon, my friend out there, has an H-1 Hummer that can probably take a few people.  I’m sure it’s rigged with a snorkel and can traverse water,”  Chip offered. 

“That’s great!  I’m sure we’ll be needing his assistance.  This is really difficult.  Cell-phone service is almost nonexistent, and most phone lines are down as well.  Communications is probably our biggest challenge.  Don’t try to leave the hospital, though.  Our security people have gotten spot reports of looting, arson, and people shooting guns all over the city.  They are barricading the entrances to the hospital.” 

“Oh, dear God!” Chip exclaimed incredulously. 

“Yeah, this thing’s going to get a lot worse before it gets better, I’m afraid.”

* * * 

By daybreak, the hospital was a beehive of activity.   Chip found a window from which he could see the roof of the parking garage.  Crews of men were busily removing light poles from the parking area so the helicopters could land.  When he returned to the waiting room, Leon told him that the doctor had been back by and asked if he could transport a couple of patients in his Hummer.  

The news had made it through the hospital that there were at least two levee breaks and well over half the city was under water. The hospital had arranged for Department of Wildlife swamp boats and other high-wheel transports like the Hummer and big trucks to get the less-critical patients out. The plan was to get the patients and families to a particular overpass on the Interstate where they would be met by FEMA ambulances and transports.  Chip told Leon that he had offered the Hummer, and Leon affirmed that he was more than willing to help.  With that, Leon excused himself to go to the parking garage, where the staff was organizing the first part of the evacuation. 

Meanwhile, Jonah was slowly, but steadily continuing to improve. He was still on oxygen and hooked up to various IVs, but he was more alert and seemed to understand what was happening.  He was in a great deal of pain, though. Sky and Chip tried to make him as comfortable as possible, and the doctor did increase the pain meds, but that made him sleep more. 

By Tuesday afternoon, Chip heard the first helicopters landing and felt encouraged that perhaps soon they would be getting out of this hellish situation.  Chip was able to get to the roof of the hospital building, thanks to Dr. Michaels, where he could use his satellite phone. He had called both Billy and Jim to update them on what was happening and that they should be evacuated some time the next day based on the best information Dr. Michaels had been provided.   

Late that afternoon, though, things began to get a lot worse. The hospital generators failed.  Of course, that meant no air conditioning, elevators, or much needed medical equipment. It was shortly after that catastrophe that Leon returned and was visibly upset and shaken. 

As soon as Chip saw him, he was concerned.  “Leon! What happened?” 

“We made it to the overpass.  The water was over four-foot deep in some sections. If I didn’t have those hydraulic lifters and the snorkel, we just wouldn’t have made it. Anyhow, we made it and dropped off my first passengers and came back and got another group.  But when I got back to the overpass, folks was still waitin’ on them FEMA ambulances. They never showed!  They freaking never showed up to get all dem sick folks sittin’ out on that damn overpass in this heat and filth.  I loaded my folks back up.  We even had one person on the roof.  On the way back, we was ambushed by a bunch of looters. One thought he could jack my truck.  I pulled out that AK-47 I keeps in that special compartment I showed you and let go a few rounds.  I guess he decided he didn’t need my Hummer after all.  But it’s bad out there.  I saw some National Guard boys coming in a few minutes ago.  Apparently they gonna be guarding the hospital.  Mr. Chip, I ain’t never seen nothin’ like dis.  Don’t nobody know what’s goin’ on, and da city’s under siege by these gangsters and thugs.  They all got guns, too; you can hear them goin’ off all over.  I’m thinkin’ we all on our own down here, and I don’t see no help comin’.” 

Just then, Chip saw Dr. Michaels walking through the hallway. “Glen!” he shouted as Dr. Michaels turned.  “Leon just told me some very disturbing news.  The patients he tried to evacuate were never picked up.” 

“I know.  Apparently there’s been a total breakdown in communication at the base level.  The mayor’s office is totally clueless, and it doesn’t appear that FEMA has any plan or organization whatsoever.  We did just get a few National Guardsmen to relieve our security boys, but we also just had to stop the air ambulances.  Some sniper was shooting at the damn choppers from the hotel across the street! Can you believe that!? We’re going to try to give it another go in the morning, but it’s just too dangerous in the dark—and without power.  I want Jonah to get out in the morning.  Without air conditioning or ventilators or any equipment, if his condition got worse… I just don’t want to think about it.  We’ve already got six patients we’re having to take turns ventilating by hand.  They will be the first out tomorrow.  We will probably be moving Jonah soon.  We’ve got to get as many non-ambulatory patients as we can to the second floor, where the walkway to the parking garage is.  We have to carry the gurneys down the stairs.  It’s going to be very hard on him.  I know that leg is causing him a lot of pain.” 

“You just confirmed what Leon told me.  We really are on our own here.  There’s been no word from the city or FEMA?”  Chip asked. 

“Nothing.  What we’ve done so far has been done with hospital resources, lots of luck, and folks like Leon pitching in.  These National Guard guys are the first relief we’ve had since the storm hit.  Look, I don’t mean to be rude, but I’ve got to run, seems like someone may have found a portable generator we can use to run some of the life-support equipment. ” 

“Sure, Glen, we’ll talk later,” Chip said as he turned back to Leon. “Leon, I’ve got to get back on that roof and make a call.   If there are snipers out there, I think maybe you’d better come with me.  I just have to be outside to get the satellite phone to work.”   

“Yessir.  Let’s move.” 

Chip went to the waiting area, where Sky was still sitting.  Chip updated Sky as best he could and retrieved the satellite phone from his bag.   Leon and Chip climbed the darkened stairwell to the roof.  Once outside, Chip quickly unfolded the ungainly looking antenna on the satellite phone and placed his call. “Jim? Yeah, it’s Chip.  Listen, things are really bad here.  I think we’re going to need some help.”   

Chip quickly filled Jim Knight in on their situation.  Jim was more than upset at what was going on in New Orleans.  He had been watching the news while sitting in Jessie’s hospital room in Birmingham.  Jim Knight had spent most of his adult life in the military and had little patience for what appeared to be total incompetence on the part of the local, State, and Federal officials in charge of this disaster.  As soon as he got off the phone with Chip, he told Jessie he had to go to his office and make some calls and would check on her as soon as he could. 

Chip, Sky, and Leon tried the best they could to get some rest, but no one could rest.  There was still no running water, so the toilets were… well, more than unpleasant. Without air conditioning and with no windows that could be opened, the temperature inside the hospital quickly climbed to near ninety degrees.  By morning, they were all exhausted, and tension inside the hospital was thick. 

A nurse came in to tell them that all the remaining patients in the unit, including Jonah, were being moved to the second floor and then to the garage to await transport.   

Chip and Sky went back to where Jonah was still in his cubicle; he was awake.  The moment he saw Sky, his face seemed to brighten.  “Hey there, cutie!” Sky said as he walked into the room. 

“Hey there, yourself,” Jonah said weakly, but with a smile. “What’s going on now?” 

“They’re going to move you, Jonah.  They’re going to take you down some stairs.  The elevators aren’t working.  Then, we go out to the parking garage.  We’re trying to get out on helicopters from the roof of the garage.” 

“Helicopters? Cool.”  Jonah said almost in a whisper.  “Why’s is it so hot?”   

“The electricity is out in the whole hospital, baby. There was a hurricane. The ACs aren’t working, either,” Sky replied as he took his lover’s hand and stroked Jonah’s head gently. 

“Will you guys stay with me?”   

“Of course we will, Jonah.  Leon’s still here, too.  I’m sure he’ll be helping carry your bed downstairs,”  Chip interjected. 

“Good.  My leg hurts really bad.” 

“I know, baby.  It was injured really bad.  They did surgery on it. Remember?  We talked about that a bit on my last visit,” Sky said softly to him. 

“Oh, yeah, I do remember somebody talking about my leg.  I feel sorta goofy.  Don’t remember some things.” 

“I know, baby.  Heh, I’d love to forget the last few days,” Sky chuckled. 

“Amen to that,” Chip said. 

It wasn’t long before a couple of guys showed up with a gurney.  They carefully moved Jonah onto it, but Chip could see him wincing in pain as they lifted him.  Chip, Sky, and Leon followed as they headed for the stairwell.  What Chip saw amazed him.   Dozens of patients were lined up in gurneys, wheelchairs, stretchers, and anything else that could be used to move them.   Staff and volunteers—family members, friends, or other people who just happened to be stuck in this same misery—were pitching in to help carry the patients down the stairs.   In less than an hour, they had Jonah down to the second floor and were headed out across the walkway to the parking garage.  Chip could hear a couple of helicopters that appeared to be close by.  When they arrived in the parking garage, Chip was greeted with another amazing sight: dozens of patients scattered around a parking garage being attended to by obviously frazzled but concerned hospital staff.   

At least it was a little cooler in the garage, which was mostly open on the sides, and there was more light.  Eventually someone came around passing out bottles of water, pop tarts, and breakfast bars.   Chip saw a couple of patients being loaded on the back of pickup trucks for the trip to the makeshift helipad on the roof of the parking garage.  The hospital’s ambulances were too tall to maneuver inside the garage so the pickup trucks were the solution the staff had found. Eventually, a very tired-looking and frazzled Glen Michaels came around to check on Jonah.    

“Hey, Jonah,” he said as he started examining him.  

“Hello, doctor,” Jonah said, weakly. “My leg is really hurting.” 

“I know, son. We can give you something for pain in a few minutes,” he said as he continued his examination.  After he finished, he took Chip aside.  “Chip, I really can’t tell you how long this may take.  Obviously, the situation is less than ideal, but the first couple of choppers have already evacuated the first few patients.  A ‘flight coordinator’ showed up about an hour ago, and he is in communication with the choppers.  He said we should be getting some Army Medevac choppers in a little later.  They can carry more than one at a time.  Right now, everyone is being sent out to Moisant airport.  It’s being used as an evacuation coordination and triage center, then they are moved on to wherever there’s a bed available.”   

“Then, we don’t even know where we could end up when we leave here?”  Chip asked. 

“Well, we’re doing the best we can.  Hospitals in Lake Charles, Lafayette, and even Baton Rouge are taking some now.  I just can’t answer that right now.” 

“I’m sorry, Glen.  I know this is an incredibly tough situation for everyone.  I’m just worried about Jonah.”

“I know you are.  I’m worried about all of my patients,” Dr. Michaels sighed. “We just got sixty critically ill people from the Superdome.  I have no clue how we will treat them.  We’re trying to get the more stable ones evacuated on boats or whatever we can find.” 

“My God!” Chip exclaimed. 

“Look, I’ve got to check on a couple more people before I go back into the hospital, I’ll be around, though.  The nurse will give Jonah something for pain, but it’ll probably make him sleep.” 

“Thanks, Glen.” 

As Dr. Michaels turned to leave, Chip’s cell phone started ringing.  “My cell is working!” he exclaimed as he answered it. 

“Thank God, I finally got in touch with you!” a relieved Billy exclaimed on the other end of the phone.  “Jim Knight called and said if I got you first to give you this information…” 

After acknowledging the message from Jim to Billy, Chip updated Billy on Jonah’s condition and what was going on and asked him to relay that information back to Jim.  A couple of hours later, Chip began to see and hear larger Army helicopters approaching and landing at the hospital.  An hour after that, Dr. Michaels came back, looking for Chip. 

“I don’t know who you called or what you did, but the flight-coordinator guy just got word to us that there’s an Army chopper on its way specifically to pick up Jonah and you guys. 

“I would suspect that would be Jonah’s dad’s doing.  He retired from the Army a few years ago.  He was a colonel, I believe.” 

“Well, he must have some friends in some pretty high places.  The flight’s been given full priority and will be here in about half an hour.  We need to get Jonah loaded on one of these trucks we’ve appropriated and get him on up to the roof.” 

They pushed Jonah’s gurney to where a pickup truck was waiting to carry patients to the upper level of the garage.  Jonah was carefully loaded onto a stretcher and onto the back of the truck.  Leon, Chip, and Sky also climbed on, as the driver and the assistant got in front.  As the truck maneuvered through the garage, Leon turned to Chip. “Mr. Chip, after you guys are loaded on the chopper, I’m gonna stay to help.  These folks need the help, and I’m not leaving the Hummer for some damn hoodlum to strip.  I talked with the doctor, and they need more help transporting the last of the patients.” 

“Are you sure, Leon?  It’s pretty rough down here.” 

Leon started laughing. “Yeah, it’s pretty bad, but I seen a lot worse than dis.  I have a strong feeling the Army will be here soon and take over this mess.  That means the Navy will send a support ship in, too.  I’m still on active reserve.  Yeah, I’m staying, and I’ll be all right.” 

“Well, I know you can take of yourself.” Chip chuckled.  “Here, at least take my satellite phone and stay in touch,” he said as he opened his case and handed Leon the phone. 

“Thanks.  This’ll help a lot.  I’ll get it back to you as soon as I get back to Memphis.” 

It wasn’t long before the large UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter was approaching the improvised pad, pivoting into the wind as the pilot eased off on the collective and the chopper settled onto the concrete. Jonah, Chip and Sky were stationed by the final ramp to the roof of the garage.  Jonah was still securely strapped to the stretcher.  As soon as the chopper landed, Jonah was pushed up the ramp by two men on the hospital staff.  When they got to the top, a helmeted soldier stepped out, “I’m looking for Charles Tucker and party.” 

“That would be us,” Chip said loudly, trying to be heard over the noise of the chopper. 

“Is that Col. Knight’s son?” the soldier asked, pointing to Jonah. 

“Yes, it is,” Chip replied. 

“This other kid, he’s with you all, too?” 

“Yes, sir. He sure is.” 

“I was told there was another, a tall black male.”

“He’s staying to help with the evacuation. He has alternate transportation out of here for later.”  

“Okay, then let’s get everyone aboard.  I’m Captain Mark Daniels.  This is my ship. It’s a long-range Medevac Blackhawk.  We’ve got orders to take you straight from here to a Mississippi National Guard chopper base at Hawkins Field in Jackson, Mississippi.  Once there, you will be transferred to civilian transport from there on up to Memphis.” 

“Captain, I’m very grateful, but there are a lot of sick people waiting on transport. You need to take some of them.  It’s simply wrong to leave all of them here when you have all this extra room. 

“I have orders, Mr. Tucker. You and these boys are getting on that chopper, but, I don’t see why we can’t take three more on stretchers and four more ambulatory or family to the field hospital being set up over at MSY and drop them off.  I’ve been listening to the radio traffic on the way in, most of the choppers from here are headed there and it’s more or less on our way.  The FAA has closed it to all traffic but rescue and military.” 

“Thank you, Captain.”   

Two other guys in uniform hopped out of the chopper with their own stretcher and moved Jonah carefully onto it and strapped him in, carried it back to the chopper, loaded and secured it.  One of the soldiers began taking Jonah’s vitals.  “These men are medics.  They will monitor him all during the flight,” Captain Daniels explained as Chip and Sky were helped into the chopper and strapped into two jump seats at the rear of the chopper. 

Chip and Sky were given helmets equipped with headphones and a mic and shown how to use them. It wasn’t long before they had three more patients securely strapped in stretchers on the helicopter and four more people in jump seats. A few minutes after they were airborne, Chip could see the extent of the damage.  Water was everywhere.  It seemed to Chip that at least eighty percent of the city must be flooded.  He could see people stranded on rooftops waving flags or sheets or anything they could find.  There were other helicopters busily scurrying about the area.  In a few moments, Captain Daniels could be heard on the headset.  “Mr. Tucker, you guys are very fortunate to be getting out of this mess.  This whole operation down here is total FUBB.” 

“FUB?” Chip echoed. “I’m somewhat familiar with FUBAR…” 

“F-U-B-B – Excuse my language, sir, but its stands for ‘fucked up beyond belief’ – worst possible foul up.  Did you see those people down there still stranded on rooftops after more than two days?  That’s inexcusable.” 

“I agree,” Chip replied.  “If you don’t mind my asking, Captain, how did it come about that you got this mission?” 

“Apparently Colonel Knight and my base commander are old golfing buddies. I was told they served together in the first Iraq war.  The base-commander handpicked me and my team and sent us down here. The rest of our outfit is on the way behind us later today or tomorrow. We just got back from a tour in Iraq a month ago.  We were set to redeploy to Afghanistan next month.  I don’t know if this disaster will change those orders or not.”   

“Oh, I see.” Chip almost chuckled to himself, but just smiled and shook his head as he imagined Jim’s call to his old Army buddy.  Undoubtedly, for this kind of quick and personal rescue, some sort of blackmail must have been involved. 

“Word is that some big general and his staff will also be arriving down here today or tomorrow to clean up this mess.  If it’s who we heard in the rumor mill, heaven help anyone that caused this screw up,” Captain Daniels added with a chuckle. 

“That’s good news, I suppose.  There certainly is no organization apparent down there right now.” 

“You don’t know the half of it, sir.   FEMA was actually initially turning away choppers, civilian and military, that were trying to come in to assist, because of some red-tape snafu.  They claimed they didn’t have adequate ground support set up, nor had flights been approved yet by Homeland Security.  It’s beyond bizarre.”   

“But FEMA is part of Homeland Security, isn’t it?” 

“Exactly.  The left hand is totally clueless that there even is a right hand.” 

Chip just shook his head in disbelief as the chopper was beginning the landing at Moisant.  After quickly offloading the other patients and passengers, the helicopter was off and headed north out over Lake Pontchartrain.  

Chip could see evidence of the storm the entire trip to Jackson, Mississippi.  Large trees were down, and debris was scattered about.  As they were approaching Jackson, Captain Daniels came back on the intercom.  “I just got off the radio with Jackson.  A chopper is waiting on the civilian pad next to the National Guard base.  There’s also a plane.  My understanding is that Mr. Knight will be on the chopper with medical personnel and go straight to the hospital there.  You and the young man will fly to Memphis on the plane. My crew will carry the patient to the civilian chopper.  By the way, Jackson here got some damage, too.  The power’s still out in most areas; that probably includes the civilian terminal at this airport unless they have a generator.  This is just a general-aviation airport, so I would doubt that.” 

“Thank you, Captain.”   

As the Blackhawk touched down, Chip looked out the window and saw his old friend Tom standing over on the tarmac next to a sleek, white-and-blue helicopter with “The Med” clearly visible on it’s side. 

As they stepped out of the chopper and the medics were busily unloading Jonah, Tom came running over and grabbed Chip in a big hug.  After just a moment he released him and said, “Damn, man, you stink!” 

Chip just shook his head.  “You go three days without running water or electricity in a ninety-degree hospital, and we’ll see how you smell.” 

“Things really are as bad as all that?” 

“Worse than your worst nightmare, old friend.” 

“Chip, hospital insurance won’t let family ride in the chopper.  I got myself assigned to this trip, and I will be with him the entire time.  I have all the necessary specialists lined up to start checking him as soon as we land.  He’s in good hands, okay?” 

“I know he is, Tom.  Thanks.” 

“This must be Sky. It’s nice to meet you.  I’m Jonah’s regular doctor, and I’m going to take really good care of him,” Tom said as he extended his hand to shake Sky’s. 

“Nice to meet you, too,” Sky replied, shaking Tom’s outstretched hand.  “Please make him well again.” 

Tom just smiled, nodded reassuringly, and patted Sky on the shoulder.  Then they headed across a grassy area to the civilian part of the airport where the medics were getting ready to load Jonah on the waiting helicopter. 

About that time Billy and Sarah came running over.   Billy, outrunning Sarah, quickly threw his arms around his brother and then also quickly released him.  “Damn, Chip, you stink.” 

Chip couldn’t help but laugh.  “Nice to see you too, baby bro.” 

Sarah laughed as well. “I don’t care how bad you smell, I gotta get a hug,” she said as she wrapped her arms around him. 

The medics finished loading Jonah into the helicopter, and Tom reassured the whole group that everything would be fine and he would call as soon as they touched down at the hospital. 

Billy turned to Sky. “Ummm, Sky, there’s someone inside the terminal who would like to see you.” 

About that time, David Blue stepped out of the building.  Sky and his dad just looked at each other for a few minutes, then David quickly ran towards his son and grabbed him.   “Sky, I’m so relieved we found you and you’re okay.” 

“Thanks, Dad. Ummm, but this doesn’t change anything.  I’m still gay, and I still love Jonah.” 

“Son, I’m not going to lie to you and tell you that I understand this or even approve of it.  I don’t.  I don’t know if I ever will, but you’re almost eighteen.  I’ve learned enough to accept that I can’t change you or that I should even try.  Jim Knight has convinced me, though, that you were probably always this way and always will be.  I accept that.  Lord knows I haven’t been much of a model father, either.   You are my son, and I will always love you because you are my son. 

“Sooo… where does that leave us?” Sky asked. 

“Well, son, it leaves us with a trip to Memphis.  I think it’s high time I get to know my half-sister, and you get to meet your aunt.” 

“You mean, I can go live in Memphis?” 

“I mean, I think it may be all right if we have some ground rules.  The first one is that you go to rehab.  Billy here has already told me you’ve been using drugs. Don’t be mad at him; we just want to get you some help.  Second, you’ve got to get back in school, and finally there’ll be no more running away.” 

“Trust me, Dad.  I’ll go to the rehab, but I never want to see those damn drugs again, and no, no more running away.  I have to help take care of Jonah, now.” 

So it was that Chip, Billy, Sarah, Sky, and David climbed aboard the waiting Cessna Citation V jet, and were off to Memphis.

 

---

 Once again, I want to thank everyone for reading and this time for your patience.  This was a difficult chapter for me to write – first, because it is the final full chapter of Sky’s the Limit, and secondly because I lost an old and dear friend to Katrina.  This was an important part of the story for me and something I thought had to be told.  The story of what happened at this hospital is actually drawn from separate written accounts from two doctors who were actually working in this hospital when the storm hit.  I spent a lot of time making sure it was as good and as accurate as I could make it.  I hope y’all liked it, but most of all, I hope people remember what happened in New Orleans and on the Mississippi Coast. 

I will save the rest of my acknowledgements for the Epilogue.