"Betty", ninety years old, has been in a recent decline secondary to lung disease. Betty is widowed and lives with her son, "Keith". Betty has eight children and a very large extended family. The majority of her family live nearby and are very involved and supportive to Betty and each other.
The hospice nurse and I met with Betty and three of her children in the bedroom of her home. I typically spend a bit of time explaining our program to the patient and family to clarify our role and what services we offer.
During the middle of our presentation, Betty's youngest daughter, "Liz" stated, "I have to share this amazing story". She added that she has been telling this story for many years. We, too, were amazed by it.
It is wonderful to see such a devoted family who continue to care for mom and are able to laugh and still have a good time as they go throughout their day. It was a pleasure meeting all of them.
THE BLUE DRESS
Her mother bought her a blue dress.
She wore it every Sunday to church.
In those days they called it a nervous breakdown.
Today; Post Partum Depression.
She spent some time in a psychiatric hospital.
She packed her blue dress along with other clothes.
She printed her name on the collar;
but someone still stole it; it was gone.
Later she moved miles away.
She had more children and raised them well.
She got a job at a local thrift shop.
Her life was fulfilling; she had a good home.
She was emptying a large plastic bag at work one day.
Sorting through some donated clothes.
When to her surprise, she pulled out a blue dress.
Her name still pronounced; penciled in on the collar.
The dress represented faith and family.
Two important characteristics in her life.
Acknowledging how far she has come.
Forty years later;
the miracle of a blue dress.
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