So, in this case, a friend's child is in the Intensive Care Unit at a nearby hospital, in serious condition after a very brief illness. There are pets and other children to care for. Here are my best suggestions.

This week, The Pollination Project and our community of Daily Givers supported projects that strengthen our food supply by caring for bees, helping people find culturally-relevant ways to access and enjoy vegan food, encouraging people grow food and teaching people healthier ways to cook.

Parents want me to find a way to make the little fever or the last bit of diarrhea go away (which I can't do, sadly) because until it does, they can't go to work. For me as a doctor, it's kind of nuts -- and not the best use of anyone's time, let alone health care dollars.

It's hard not to be angry and bitter when people ask, "So, what are you doing for your daughter's birthday?" So, for now, I will keep writing and selling cupcakes.

People often forget to check in on the parents. They are struggling with exhaustion, confusion and fear. Be there for them by being present to their struggle. Just listen -- they know you cannot fix things. They just need love.