*(All stories that appear in the INVOLVE column are true, however we have inserted fictitious client names to protect their privacy and that of their families.)
Dawn Sites, Director of Nightingale's Nest Adult Day Care, submitted the following letter.
As you know, Ann, a brain injury resident has some emotional disabilities as well as physical disabilities. On my day off Friday, I received a call about 7:00 am from Ann, (Families know they can call me after hours due to illness or inclement weather). Apparently Ann was having one of her bad days with migraines and emotional set backs due to the traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Ann attends Bible study every Friday night and was having trouble answering the quiz questions that is part of homework each week. She asked if I could help, so I put off my vacation plans and sat down to help Ann with her questions. I got out my Bible and read with her (over the phone) and together, we managed to answer her questions. I spent about 30 minutes helping her complete her quiz. Finally, after hearing the relief in her voice she was able to go on about her day. It did not faze me that I was spending my day off with her. Ann knows that I am one of her caregivers… after hours and on weekends, as well.
You see, Ann has been a difficult resident; she has battled TBI for 6 years. She was very bitter when she started my program, and could not get along with anyone. Slowly, however, she became more social, and her stamina has increased due to exercises. Now, unbelievably she looks forward to coming in for her treatments.
Ann and her husband have two girls, ages nine, and 10. Money is tight; her husband is a farmer so they have income only at certain times of the year. They have a tradition that is simple to all of us… the girls awake on Christmas day to find their stockings filled. Yesterday, I took Ann out for lunch and purchased items that she picked out for each girl. She was tickled to get these small gifts, yet it took very little time and money on my part.
Last evening I received a call from her husband who was very emotional, and could hardly speak, thanking me for taking care of his wife and for going above and beyond to make her feel loved again. He said I gave her something to look forward to, and what a blessing I am to their family.
As most of us do, I get sidetracked this time of year. I am so concerned about getting items for a party, what gifts I will be buying and heck, (I wont lie) what gifts I want to receive! Yet, this year I took a moment to slow down and remember what Christmas is really all about. Actually, they are the ones who are the blessing.
Merry Christmas,
Dawn
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