Posted 1/24/19
Entering the nursing home brings me to an almost muscle memory autoexcursion through the labyrinth to try to quickly get to the back where the memory unit awaits. I go on autopilot as I walk through most days. I am trying to learn to be more observant for all of the folks there to maybe try to brighten some more days. Everyone has a story, and few get told.
Today I saw the same guy on the left proudly wearing a business suit in his wheelchair. I also saw the woman at the first hall elbow that is usually kissing her husband goodbye doing it again today. A creature of habit, I tend to visit at the same time and see the same people… like clockwork…and blast by. A nurse with quarter-sized gauges in his ears pushing a crash cart alone. He will likely see someone die this week again…maybe even a Sweet 17 damsel in distress? Lots of stories, lots of heartache. But not all is bad. As I came in, I saw a rehabbing cancer (?) patient walking bravely with assistance between the parallel support bars in the PT room. Here’s to hoping she gets her strength, her hair and her life back…but she seems to be in the right track. Lots of helping hands directly or indirectly, purposely or merely for a job, representing Christ in the life of these folks.
I can deal with the visuals of a nursing home. I am not sure I will ever get the smells and the sounds out of my mind.
Another good day for mom. 🙂 Her words were typically jumbled, but she spoke sweetly in her own way. Her bruises continue to heal and she took her meds. Anxiety level= 5 out of 10. Not bad. Her piano playing was sweet. We had some fun doing Mary Had a Little Lamb duets since that is all I can muster. The good day streak continues. 🙂
#EndALZ