For Ladies … Caring
Ginny Lallance
There is a word in today’s vocabulary that I never heard growing up. That word is caregiver. As a child, I watched my mother in that role, as Daddy was sick, in and out of the hospital for several years before he died when I was eleven. Mother, as well as my sister and I, took care of him. She was what we know today as a caregiver. I do not recall neighbors, family members, or others coming to “spell” her for even a short time. 1 Peter 5:7 must have given her strength: “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” The burden she carried is perhaps why, later on, she worked caring for the elderly.
However, the years have passed, and, in today’s climate, there seems to be more and more a need for caregivers. Cancer, dementia, Alzheimer’s, and other dreaded illnesses come upon our loved ones. Because of our love for them, many times we attempt to care for family members in our homes. Having gone through the disease of Alzheimer’s with my beloved mother-in-law, I know how draining of strength and emotions it was. So many times the burdens of life are such that we must help one another. The love we share with our Christian family will manifest itself in many, many ways. When we visit the home of an ailing brother or sister, the caregiver is strengthened and knows how much we love and care for them. A short visit will cheer the ailing person and provide the caregiver with an opportunity to gain strength by our being there. A hug and sincere words spoken from a caring heart can bring hope to a caregiver. A few years ago when my husband was going through treatment for prostate cancer, the comfort given by our Christian family saw us through many a rough day.
We are reminded of how Jesus showed compassion in Matthew 20:34 and Mark 1:41. When we learn of the failing health of someone and offer our prayers for his or her recovery, we must remember those who care for the sick one. Many times medicine helps ease the pain of the ill person. At the same time, the pain of watching a loved one suffer is so hard on the caregivers. It is then we offer our prayers to our heavenly Father on behalf of not only the person who is ill but also the caregiver. Offers to “spell” the caregiver for a few minutes or longer will show how much we are willing to help bear their burden. To run errands, fix a meal, etc., will be so appreciated.
In closing this article, think for just a moment of someone you may know who is living the life of a caregiver and what you can do to help bear his or her burden. Love, prayers, and assistance will not go unnoticed by the ONE who sees our every action! - Route 2 Box 177, Belington, WV 26250. mrmrsl@meer.net