Guest Blogger
“An effort made for the happiness of others lifts us above ourselves.”
As a caregiver working with older adults, often one may find that they spend a lot of time reminiscing with the person whom they are caring for. Their memories may take them to positive places emotionally, and sometimes they may provoke sadness or regret. Both the reminiscing and mixed emotions are an important part of this stage of life.
Recently, Sharon Harris, a Messiah Lifeways At Home caregiver, was working with a client who shared something from her past that was still troubling her. Sharon went above and beyond in her service to this client to address this concern, and the following letter was received from a family member in response to Sharon’s generosity and compassion.
“I would like to take this opportunity to commend Sharon Harris, a Messiah Lifeways employee, for going above and beyond in her care and concern for my mother. Sharon has worked for Mom in the role of caretaker and also housekeeper for several months. During this time, she has been attentive to Mom’s needs, both physical and emotional.
One incident in particular reflects the caring exhibited by Sharon. In conversation, my mother apparently shared with Sharon the fact that my brother had died in 1988. His death was a delayed consequence of his service in Vietnam in 1967-68. My mother was not in possession of any records related to his service or his medals, a fact which saddened her. Sharon must have relayed this information to someone at the Navy Base because less than a week later, Mom received a letter and a commendation thanking Mom for the services of her son. The letter was on behalf of a grateful nation for the sacrifice made by my brother and his family.
These documents were undoubtedly sent to make a mother feel better about the death of a son almost thirty years ago. Only a caring and supportive caregiver would hear and understand the meaningfulness of this recognition. Sharon Harris has made it possible for my mother to hold in her hand a testimony to the sacrifice made by my brother. I want to thank her for that.”
Like Sharon, so many caregivers go above and beyond the call of duty, and we hear those stories from those we serve who are so touched by the fact that you have gone the extra mile. We know that you are not in this line of work because it is easy or glamorous, but because you truly care for other people. Thank you so much for ALL you do!
Christina J. Weber, MSW, LSW
Director of Home Care Services
