I have joined the group "Blogging from A to Z" . This is a a month long challenge to write a short story everyday and each day corresponding to the letter of the alphabet. I have linked up the site - simply click on the name so that you might read any sort of short story from the huge line-up available. The stories are supposed to be short so that many can be read, quickly. Simply a titillation of talent. Happy reading, and thank you for joining me. My sister-in-law is writing under "Vicki's Place" currently her placement is #1259. If you are catching this on my Facebook or as an e-mail follower my number is currently #1324. (people drop out and the numbers contract)
R is for Rickets
Her bruised and broken
body lay on the gurney. Doctors and
nurses alike were bleary eyed for this little one. She had been smiling with blood oozing from
her ears. She had delighted in the Popsicle one of the orderlies found for her. She
was an angel with broken wings.
Her normally
flawless skin appeared to have been beaten with a heavy object. Her little legs were simply “akimbo”. Her huge smile melted our hearts and revenge
was on everyone’s mind. Who could have
possibly done this heinous crime? Who
could have hurt such a defenseless baby.
The police were
called. Child services were called.
One young
intern. One young person stepped
up. “This could be rachitogenic. We should check her vitamin D levels.” The physicians head snapped. His eyes widened as his nostrils flared. 
“Order the tests.” Was all he said as he turned and walked away,
shaking his head. “Today’s parents are
not taking the precautions of ensuring a healthy life for their children. Fast food and junk food. Sugar and fake grease. Food not fit for animals, and we feed it to
our children. This is the third child in
two weeks. This IS child abuse. A new and different form, but child no less
child abuse than if they had beat her with a bat.” 
Parents
Are Being Wrongly Accused Of Child
Abuse
Because Of Rise In Vitamin D Deficiency
leigh
interesting and sad.
ReplyDeleteIt amazes me that there is such a deficiency...we add vitamin D it all dairy products..so what are these kids drinking or eating? soda pop!
DeletePlus, sunlight provides vitamin D.
DeleteHalf our nation doesn't get outside on a regular basis...you need 20 minutes per day...
DeleteIn this day and age, there is no reason for children from well developed countries to have rickets. Kids can get free breakfast and free lunch at school, if money is an issue. Fast food is more expensive than a home cooked meal. Such a sad situation.
ReplyDeletehttp://joycelansky.blogspot.com
Unfortunately families no longer bother to cook and have no idea what this can lead to. Fast food may not be cheaper but it is easier. School meals are not necessarily any better, chocolate milk is given to them and it is loaded with sugar, french fries and pizza often appear on the menus. Check out the work the English cook Jamie Oliver has been doing with British and US schools, not with a lot of success in the US.
ReplyDeleteJO ON FOOD, MY TRAVELS AND A SCENT OF CHOCOLATE
I can't believe this is happening. That is truly very sad.
ReplyDeleteWhat a sad and shocking commentary on 21st century lifestyle. Is this progress? I think not. Thanks for making the point.
ReplyDelete