CAREGIVERS

I have been a medical social worker my entire career.  During all of those years, I have always had the pleasure of working with caregivers and home health aides.  I see such love and respect from those working in that field.  It is a calling for most all of them.  

The hospice nurse and I went out to admit, “Lois”, to hospice.  She was diagnosed only one month ago with metastatic cancer.  Lois lives with her daughter, “Marilyn”, who has hired 24 hours caregiving support as she is seeing a weekly decline with her mother.   

Lois had worked for years as a caregiver in a nearby Skilled Nursing Facility.  The nurse and I spent some alone time with Marilyn while explaining our program and discussing Mom’s health issues.  When we walked into meet Lois, she was sitting in a recliner in her bedroom.  She was so welcoming and thankful for our presence.  She amazed me as she spoke her truth about her grief of losing her independence, but then would turn around and smile so gently at us.    

The family has suffered several recent losses.  One of Lois’s daughters died ten months ago from cancer.  Then just four months ago, her grandson died suddenly from a seizure.  Marilyn appropriately cried when sharing these stories with us.

 I feel honored to have met Lois and her family.  They all are a beautiful example of spirituality and love.   Love truly does attract love.

CAREGIVERS

 

 

I have worked with caregivers

my entire thirty-plus years career.

All have been amazing; heartfelt souls.

That is why I always call them “Angels”.

 

One month ago, she was totally independent.

Now, wheelchair bound and so weak.

Her nutrition has become only sips and bites.

Family say they are seeing a weekly decline.

 

She had worked as a caregiver in a local nursing home.

She drew such pleasure while helping others.

Now she has 24/7 hired caregivers to help her

as is no longer safe being alone.

 

She has such a loving, genuine heart;

appreciating the help, but grieving it as well.

‘I want to be able to run again; to walk once more;

but I know those days are forever gone.”

 

One new caregiver filled in for an eight-hour shift.

When paying her for her time, she softly said,

“I can’t take your money.

God sent me here to care for your mom”.

 

I am surprised, but then I am not.

Like truly attracts like.

Her loving soul beckons the same.

That is why all are tenderly called

                         “Angels.”