Over the past year, I’ve experienced a number of different emotions, most of the them related directly or indirectly to the progression of Kate’s Alzheimer’s, but some, like COVID, have occurred for other reasons. The feeling I have right now is a sense of gratitude. Kate and I have been on the receiving end of the goodness of people throughout the past year. That has been especially so during our personal experience with the virus and its aftereffects.
It marked the first time I felt a critical and immediate need for help, and everyone responded in ways that exceeded my expectations. Much of that came from family and friends who have given me encouragement via phone calls, cards, and email. I’ve been particularly impressed with our healthcare professionals. They have played an enormous role since the middle of November when we tested positive.
I’ve always felt good about the geriatric practice with which Kate’s physician is associated. I kept her doctor, nurse, and social worker busy responding to my questions. They went out of their way to address the various issues we have faced, and I continue to rely heavily on them.
Although unable to be with Kate in the hospital, I had several phone conversations with her nurses and doctors each day. They were responsive to all my inquiries and gave me a sense that they were giving Kate the very best care. They were also sensitive to my own needs.
It was only after Kate’s return home that I had direct contact with anyone. They include the Home Health personnel (nurses, physical therapists, and a social worker). I’ve had confidence in each one. They are all experienced in their respective areas and possess the sensitivity one expects from someone who has chosen a career caring for others.
My closest contact, however, has been with the caregivers who have been here every day since Kate’s return home. Watching and working with them closely has confirmed what I thought when Kate entered the hospital; I was facing a caregiving task that I couldn’t handle by myself.
I like every person our two agencies have provided. We’ve had seven or eight new caregivers. Only one person was with us before. Their training and experience have enabled them to address all of Kate’s needs. I’ve learned a lot from them. When you add their compassionate care to their clinical strengths, they are an excellent team.
I should make a special point concerning how hard they work, not just for us but for the others they serve when they are not here. I believe all but one of them works at least one other job in addition to their work with the agency that provides them to us. It is not unusual for the Monday and Wednesday caregiver to come to us after working all night and/or leaving us for another all-nighter.
I was especially impressed with someone who was here last week. She has undergone open heart surgery, has MS, and has had a brain tumor. She has four different jobs. In addition, she has two children, one who is in college. Despite the difficulties she has faced, she is very upbeat and grateful. I’m sure she is an inspiration to everyone who knows her.
