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Richard Batman
Hatteberg's People
Reporter: Larry Hatteberg
January 18, 2004--In Dodge City, Richard Batman is in the hospital every day. Not because he’s ill, but because he just likes people.
“They see me coming down the halls and they’re glad to see me.”
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Everyone in the hospital knows him.
“How are you this morning.”
At Western Plains Regional Hospital in Dodge City, Richard Batman is a welcome site.
“You don’t work at it, you don’t get anything out of it.”
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Batman visits with every patient every day. Today, he’s with Jeanette Rumph who’s receiving physical therapy.
“Well I come around every day and see every patient seven days a week.”
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And if they want, he’ll even draw their picture.
He takes out a pad and some colored pencils as he begins to sketch Jeanette’s picture.
“As long as he makes me look good I’ll be happy.” |
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For a moment he looks closely at her hair.
“This lady has two-tone hair and it’s going to overwork my color box.”
He began a couple of years ago, first it was just having lunch with his daughter who is a nurse …they he started visiting….and never stopped.
“Yeah, if you enjoy something it’s easy, it’s not work….it’s a pleasure.”
“I think he did a pretty good job. I’ve never had my picture drawn before, so it looks good.” |
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On another floor Frances Hey of Jetmore is recovering from knee surgery. In his room, more visiting….and another portrait.
“Sometimes, women don’t want it done because they haven’t had their hair done in a week.” |
“Well, I ain’t worried about that with my hair.”
That’s because Frances doesn’t have much of it.
Richard feels fortunate just to be able to meet these people.
“Some of these people have stories that just won’t quit. Some of the most interesting people you ever saw in your life.”
Francis points to his leg and the conversation moves to his operation.
“I got a complete new knee.”
For Richard Batman, this is the perfect job.
“I like people and get a lot of self satisfaction.”
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“I never saw a stranger.”
Richard completes the picture of Francis and hands it to him. Francis is impressed.
“Look at that, that picture is nice. Yeah I like that picture.”
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But there are still more people to see, more pictures to draw.
“Yes sir, we’ll see you again.”
“I don’t believe a guy should ever stop. I think if you stop you die. There is room for volunteers everywhere.” |
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