I seem to have lost my voice and the momentum of writing regular updates. Apologies for the delay, as often what's within my heart to write about is introspective, and it seems that I've not been stirring that stew as much as I should, hence the thickness of this post.
It's been 225 days since Eliza's nursing care was taken away by the hospital's insurance company. As her father, her caregiver and her friend, I can't tell you how much she would benefit from an extra hand now and then.
This poem sent to me by Ted Kooser (as part of a subscription list), is in his words "a loveely poem for the caregivers among us." It's by Terri Kirby Erickson, who lives in North Carolina.
Sponge Bath
It's been 225 days since Eliza's nursing care was taken away by the hospital's insurance company. As her father, her caregiver and her friend, I can't tell you how much she would benefit from an extra hand now and then.
This poem sent to me by Ted Kooser (as part of a subscription list), is in his words "a loveely poem for the caregivers among us." It's by Terri Kirby Erickson, who lives in North Carolina.
Sponge Bath
Draped in towels,
my grandmother sits in a hard-backed
chair, a white bowl
of soapy water on the floor.
She lifts her frail arm, then rests it,
gratefully, in her daughter’s palm.
Gliding a wet
washcloth, my mother’s hand
becomes a cloud, and every bruise, a rain-
drenched flower.
 |
| Eliza enjoying her first winter sled ride |
Caregiving happens to be job from the ageless for the ageless. It's too bad that such a price-tag (and profit) has to be attached to it. Until next time.
Tim
3 comments:
Oh Tim -- my heart sank when I saw Day 225. I just can't even begin to imagine how you and Gina are coping.
The poem is beautiful.
I am reading an interesting book about caregivers of people with dementia, written by a neurologist who works with families in Toronto. And there is so much in there about the need for caregivers to have lovingkindness for themselves -- which of COURSE -- includes respite and self-care.
Did you have any media coverage around your story? It sounds like something that might be of real interest and that perhaps could get you some traction?
It is so wrong what has happened. And unnecessary. I'm so sorry!
Thinking of you all! xo
Beautiful poem. It reminds me of my mom. Sending positive thoughts to you and Gina.
Thanks Ann and Louise! Louise, to answer you question about media, we did have one story in the local news paper and television station (http://www.mlive.com/news/grand-rapids/index.ssf/2012/08/parents_sue_devos_childrens_ho.html) and in the past two months, we were contacted by Propublica but our attorney said he didn't want to talk with them until the first round of depositions were completed, which is due to happen this week. I've also received contact from the Wall Street Journal. The reporters are interested because of the fact that Eliza's care was provided, and then taken away. While the legal process is frustrating, we are on track to be in court by fall of this year. I guess that's where this will need to take place.
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