Having been cared for, for many years, I fully understand Lentte’s commitment to me and her caring for me in many ways. Accordingly, if I need a model caregiver to pattern myself after, she’s right here by my side.
As of now, and for the last few months, I have become her caregiver. She had an operation to insert a device into her heart (Watchman), an operation on her right wrist to free the hand nerves after breaking her wrists earlier this year, and a disappearing back pain. All this AND getting old and not being oneself (or not being who and what she was not too long ago).
Going from caregiver to needing care is a significant change for anyone, but I believe it’s more difficult for women because they have been major caregivers. I hope I have been clear about this in my previous two papers.
My love is going through this, and the good news is that she is coming through it very well and ought to be caring for me again soon. Also, the good news is that I’m in excellent shape, exercise, write daily, and feel great, keeping in mind I am about to be 96 years old. Maybe that’s what the Mexico experience was telling us?
So, what can I say to my readers about being a caregiver? Be open, vulnerable, and firm but soft. Listen and understand as best you can, and at all costs, be honest. Say what you must say but with a connection to the other. Lenette and I remain in constant dialogue. I love her, so how good is this?
If the need arises, drop me a line, and I will do my best to help you either accept care or be the caregiver. Please, never give in or up, but stay the course and be loving because we all are somewhere within us.
I receive from you—you receive from me with love—we need each other
Sy
