I have been an independent woman
doing what I like
since I became an adult.

Then suddenly I became
a caregiver.
Now, my life is not my own.
My thoughts are about someone else–
their needs, their health.
Life as I knew it 
was swept off the table.

Did you know there are Drug Access Navigators for cancer patients?
I met one.

In the past two months, my siblings and I have met my mom and/or dad’s
GP, oncologist, internist, doctors-on-call,
hospital dietitian, cancer clinic dietitian, ultrasound technician,
ward nurses, chemo nurses, lab techs, porters,
hospital transport drivers, ophthalmologist,
seniors’ residence manager and receptionist,
hairdresser, investors, pharmacists,
housecleaner, lawn cutter, grocers,
caseworker and members of her team, insurance broker,
pastor, neighbours, and friends.

All of them we know by name.
All (save a few that had a bad day) have been incredibly kind
and said things like
“Call me anytime.”
“I’ll do anything for your dad.”
Travis in ultrasound called my mom, “Wonder Woman.”
Mom smiled when she told us that.

I am grateful for all these dedicated caregivers.
I am so glad we got to meet them.

But I also want to tell you about the caregivers
I have gotten to know and appreciate in a whole new way:
my sister, my two brothers and their wives,
Fred
and myself.

I don’t want to brag
but caregivers are Wonder People.

Very truly I tell you, when you were younger you dressed yourself
and went where you wanted;
but when you are old you will stretch out your hands,
and someone else will dress you
and lead you where you do not want to go.
-John 21:18 (NIV)

Credits and References:
Christ healing Peter’s mother-in-law by Rembrandt, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
“Caregivers” by Esther Hizsa, 2023
“Caregiver isn’t a noun” poster by Chronic Joy®. Used with permission.

© Esther Hizsa, An Everyday Pilgrim, 2023.
The unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without permission from Esther Hizsa is prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used provided there is a link to the original content and credit is given as follows: © Esther Hizsa, An Everyday Pilgrim 2013-2023.  http://www.estherhizsa.com