Lala, the playful little monkey, had always been full of energy and laughter. She would run around the house, swing from the branches in the yard, and find a million ways to make everyone smile. But over the past few days, something was not right. Lala had become quieter, her usual mischievous sparkle dimmed, and she wasn’t eating as much as before. Dad, who adored Lala like his own child, quickly noticed that something was wrong.
“Lala, what’s the matter?” Dad asked gently, sitting beside her. He offered her favorite fruit, a juicy mango, but Lala only sniffed it and turned her head. Dad’s heart tightened. He knew Lala well—if she wasn’t excited about food, something serious was going on.
That evening, Dad discussed it with Mom. “We can’t wait any longer. Tomorrow morning, I’m taking Lala to the hospital for a thorough check-up,” he said firmly. Mom nodded in agreement, though worry was etched on her face.
The Morning of the Hospital Trip
The next day, Dad prepared early. He packed Lala’s small blanket, a bottle of water, and some snacks just in case she felt hungry later. Lala, sensing something unusual, clung to Dad’s shirt. “It’s okay, Lala,” Dad reassured her, kissing her head softly. “We’re just going to see a kind doctor who will help you feel better.”
As they drove to the hospital, Lala sat quietly in her car seat, looking out the window with big, curious eyes. Normally, she would chatter, point at the passing trees, or try to climb over to Dad’s lap, but today she just stared. Dad kept glancing at her through the mirror, his heart filled with worry but also determination.
Arriving at the Hospital
The hospital was bright and welcoming, with colorful walls and friendly nurses who smiled at Lala the moment she walked in. “What a cute little monkey!” one of the nurses said, handing Lala a small toy. But Lala just hugged Dad tightly, feeling nervous in this new place.
Dad signed the forms and soon they were called into the examination room. Dr. An, a gentle and kind woman who specialized in animals, greeted them warmly. “Hello, Lala! Don’t worry, I’m here to help,” she said softly, crouching down to Lala’s level.
Lala peeked out from behind Dad’s shoulder. “She hasn’t been eating well and seems weaker than usual,” Dad explained. “I want to know the cause before it gets worse.”
The Examination Begins
Dr. An started with simple checks—listening to Lala’s heartbeat with a stethoscope, checking her temperature, and looking at her eyes and mouth. Lala squirmed a bit but didn’t cry. Dad held her hand and whispered, “You’re so brave, Lala.”
Next, Dr. An suggested running some tests to find out if there were any hidden issues. “We’ll do a blood test and an ultrasound to be thorough,” she said. Dad nodded in agreement.
When the nurse prepared for the blood test, Lala looked alarmed. She didn’t like needles! Dad distracted her by showing her a small cartoon on his phone. “Look, Lala, it’s your favorite dancing kitten!” he said. As she giggled at the screen, the nurse gently took the sample, and Lala barely noticed.
Waiting for Results
After the tests, Dad and Lala sat in the waiting area. Dad bought a small apple juice for Lala from the vending machine, hoping to cheer her up. Lala sipped slowly, resting her head on Dad’s shoulder.
While waiting, Dad thought about all the times Lala had brought joy into their home—the way she would run to greet him after work, the little kisses she planted on his cheek, and her infectious laughter. “You’re my little sunshine, Lala. We’ll find out what’s wrong,” he whispered softly.
The Doctor’s Explanation
After some time, Dr. An returned with the results. “Don’t worry, Dad,” she began with a reassuring smile. “Lala doesn’t have any serious illness. She’s just a little dehydrated and has a mild stomach issue, probably from something she ate. We’ll give her some medicine and recommend a special diet for a few days.”
Dad sighed with relief. His heart felt lighter instantly. “Thank you, doctor! I was so worried,” he said, hugging Lala tightly.
Dr. An gave Lala a small sticker as a reward for being so brave. “Make sure she drinks plenty of water, and avoid heavy or oily foods for now,” she advised. Dad nodded, already planning to make soft fruit purees and warm soups for Lala.
On the Way Home
As they left the hospital, Lala seemed happier, perhaps sensing that everything would be okay. Dad decided to stop by the park for a little while. The fresh air and gentle breeze seemed to perk Lala up. She even smiled when Dad put her on the swing and gave her a gentle push.
“See? Daddy told you, you’re going to be fine!” Dad said, kissing her forehead. Lala clapped her tiny hands, making Dad laugh.
Back at Home
When they got home, Mom was waiting anxiously. “How is she?” Mom asked immediately. Dad explained everything, and Mom hugged Lala, relieved that it was nothing serious.
That evening, Dad prepared a special meal of banana mash and warm herbal tea for Lala. He even sat next to her, feeding her spoon by spoon, while humming her favorite lullaby. Lala happily ate a little, making everyone smile.
A Lesson of Love and Care
The hospital visit became a reminder of how much Dad loved and cared for Lala. He realized that even the smallest changes in her behavior needed attention. From that day on, Dad and Mom kept a closer watch on Lala’s diet, making sure she stayed healthy and happy.
Lala, on the other hand, seemed to understand that her parents were always there for her. She cuddled with Dad that night, her tiny hand resting on his cheek as if to say “thank you.”
