Today is National Caregivers Day and I want to be sure that it doesn’t go unrecognized. Both of my parents passed from long term illnesses and there is no way my sister and I could have managed without the help of these astoundingly patient and engaged professionals.
CLICK here for a list of gifts for caregivers.
Thirty years ago, while my father was battling cancer, I was living in NYC and working as a comedian and actor. He was home with hospice care. Witnessing the dedication and skill of the people helping him I thought about the reaction I often got when I said I worked as a comic. “Stand-up is the hardest thing in the world, I could never do THAT, that’s the hardest thing in the world to do!”
Really? Stand-up is hard? ‘Cause I’m pretty sure caring for people with terminal illness 24/7 is a bit harder. My family is eternally grateful to the women, and yes as reported, it was women, on the frontlines.
CLICK here to donate the gift of laughter.
Nevertheless, when my mother started her Alzheimer’s journey, which sounds deceptively like something enlightening, this wonderful man emerged to walk her dog. Eventually he became a companion who brought her meals cooked by his husband and would stay for hours telling stories. He also took in Buster, her wheezy pug, when the time was right.
When we made the decision to move my mother west, I was blessed to be accompanied by one of her caregivers on the flight with me. What a dance that was - timing meds and food, and staying ahead of her agitation. Describing these people as angels runs the risk of hyperbole. Then again, does it?
I am always moved by those who choose caregiving as a profession. And also awestruck by the people who don’t. Those whose love, commitment and often just circumstances have caregiving thrust upon them. Each one deserves all the support, appreciation and love we can share.
