Sometimes, a caregiver that is soooo close to the illness, such as a family member, feels like they can do this all by themselves, with professional expertise, readily available on the peripheri. Sometimes they feel like they are "coming up short" as a caregiver to their loved one, if they seek help with the activities of daily living. Nothing is further from the truth...remember, even professional staff, nurses, doctors, therapists, etc, work 8 - 12 hour shifts, 3 - 5 days a week....and they get weekends and vacation time off. As the sole caregiver to a loved one, you do not get those much needed intermissions and breaks, NECESSARY AND ESSENTIAL for the caregiver to maintain their OWN sense of well being and emotional stability....you are "on" 24/7...no breaks, no rejuvinating, no time off, no emotional rebuilding.....devoted caregivers are like a golden goblet....priceless and capable of holding a huge amount, giving a huge amount, but even this goblet is not bottomless....it gives up just so much before it is dry, empty....Hospice and the dedicated staff that work for a good hospice, are absolutely invaluable to caregivers, as well as the patient. Patti, please find you a good hospice and allow these people to help you "work the magic"...the miracles, that Ken and you BOTH need at this time. God bless you both and give you the strength and wisdom and courage to get you through this very challenging time. |