Have you ever had someone’s face light up because you walked into the room? That’s how my day started. I peeked into my dad’s bedroom and said, “Hi Dad!” and his face lit up for joy. Eric was already taking care of him, helping him wake up and get ready for the day, but Dad was groggy and unmotivated to get out of bed. But at the sound of my voice, he turned his head, opened his eyes and his face lit up with joy.
“Good morning, Dad,” I said.
“It is now that you’re here,” he said.
“Eric and I are your friendly CNA’s, here to take care of you,” I joked.
“Let me see, we’re your… “Children, Near, Always,” I said, using the beginning letters from the acronym Certified Nursing Assistant.
Children near always. Do you know what that means to an 89-year-old who’s had to rely on strangers to take care of him for the last four years?
Eric pulled Grandpa up off the bed and he grabbed his walker. Steadying himself, he began his labored journey to the bathroom. Dad has Parkinson’s and it takes him a while to get his motor apparatus in gear.
As they headed for the Friday morning shower, I caught a glimpse of my dad from behind, bent over, pajamas sagging, a tell-tale sign of the soaking wet diaper underneath.
We would have to wash his pajamas and sheets again today.
As I gazed at the scene unfolding before me, the tall grandson securely grasping the safety belt of the little old man hobbling to the bathroom, I commented to Eric, “That’s Jesus, you know.”
“I know,” he replied.
“…I was naked, and you clothed Me…” Mathew 25:36
That’s beautiful, it touches my heart in such a way…words can’t comply.
Nancy
Beautiful. I think you’d have to be one who has cared for an elderly loved one to really feel the beauty in this.
I made a decision early on to bathe mother, and change the linens and put fresh jammies and clothes on her every day…and I’m glad I did…for both of us. Visiting nurses were always surprised that our home didn’t smell like a nursing home, and I know how delightful clean sheets feel against my skin, so I assumed it was probably true for my mother, as well.
I am so happy that you are writing in this space, Jill.
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