Sunday, January 4, 2015

Let me know if there is anything I can do.

Of course, there is. .. as the Weeks unfold with Mom's accident, so many friends and relatives have done so much. So many nurses did so much. It has been amazing to feel the care and experience the warm blanket of prayers, love, and concern. And I've learned so much about myself and Mom and my son. 

Being a caregiver is blessed work. Yes, it is  Work. But it's a blessing. 

I have also learned that yes, there is always something a person can do.  I hope I remember to pair the loving words, "Let me know if there's anything I can do." with action. That action can really be anything.  My sister / cousin rode with me behind the ambulance.  My son's best friends made a point to visit his Granny. Visits, texts,  checking on you texts, praying for you texts, phone calls, warm shawls, home baked treats, teddy bears named Peanut... and myriads of kind extensions of love.  One friend drove miles to get us a wheel chair to bring Mom home.  we saw several dear, Dear  friends who dedicated themselves to more than one visit during the 25 days in the hospital.

I don't really think unsolicited advice is a good thing, but I give some here. Just always go ahead and send that text or card. . Take that box of crackers and cheese to the waiting room.  Call and say you are thinking about your friends.  Show up for the ones you love.

For after all,  "These are the gifts of the Magi... and these are the wisest.  Everywhere these are the wisest." (O. HENRY)

5 comments:

Miss Merry said...

When my son in law was unexpectedly stricken with a virus that left him on life support, I had to stay with their 3 preschoolers while she braved the hospital. Her friends were incredible. Ideas for the waiters - someone brought her a comfy throw and a package of fuzzy socks. Boxed snacks are great when you can't leave the area for hours. A small cooler of beverages, too. Even "comfy pants" sweats or pj pants to change into. Another friend dropped off a bagel tray to the house to feed relatives who ran in and out. They organized a meal schedule. Even a bucket of chicken - something to hand the parents and grandparents and siblings when they come through a door. Luckily our story has a happy ending - 2 years later he is as good as new, but it is hard to think of what you need when something strikes - I learned somethings to just do without asking and it sounds like you did, too! Best wishes during recovery.

Tessa~ Here there be musing said...

A good reminder.

And don't just say "If I can help." Do something. Do something that sounds as if, it would be wonderful if someone did it, if we were in such a situation.

You are blessed to be surrounded by such caring people.

Tessa~

From My Country Sunrise said...

Love you and all you are doing~~~SO glad she is doing so much better☺

Becky K. said...

I'm so thankful that you have such a strong support system. You've been a good friend and support to many....it was their turn to get to bless you and your family.
Being a caregiver is next to being a mom in the "hardest job you'll ever love" category.

bj said...

My mother always complained about "let me know if there's something I can do" when all you have to do is be thoughtful, look around and FIND something to do for them.
Glad she is doing better, dear one.