Friday, December 11, 2009

Reunion

Take a look at this picture. Isn't this a true picture of love? My hubby's aunt recently celebrated her 94th birthday. She has been such a sweet blessing in our lives. As we have watched her decline in the last few years, she has needed more and more care.

Hazel took care of Aunt H's brother for the years he suffered from Alzheimers. She was the only one that could handle him. After he passed away, Hazel would come and spend two days with Aunt H. Hazel did a few little things around the house, but mostly was a companion to Aunt H. Even when Aunt H had to move into an Assisted Living Facility, Hazel was hired to help Aunt H. It became a daily job until Hazel's husband became ill with cancer and dementia. It truly was a sad day when Hazel gave up her job and stayed home to care for her Buck.

Aunt H's memory has declined in the last couple of years, but on the day of her birthday she remembered all of us. Maybe not our names, but she sure knew our faces. When Hazel walked in, Aunt H started to cry. She told Hazel "You quit me!" But Hazel lovingly explained to Aunt H what had happened and why she could not come anymore. It was such a sweet reunion. One that is not typical I would think. It was not a reunion of companions, or workers. It was a reunion of friends.

So today I am thankful for caretakers. Whether you are caring for a child, or caring for a parent. It is such a big job, caring for the needs of others. And I am thankful for the loving bond that sometimes transpires between two souls. It's the way it should be.

5 comments:

Allie said...

Awww how sweet is that - happy birthday to Aunt H! People like Hazel are more of a blessing than they could ever realize.

Pat said...

Happy Birthday to your aunt. And there are too few "Hazels" around....sad to say. I wish there were many more like her as she seems to be a very special person.

Old Time Cindy said...

Very sweet story...
Living it up at Lakewood,
Cindy

Mary said...

This was a beautiful post, and I thank you for your appreciation of caretakers. I take care of my mentally disabled daughter and blind husband...it isn't easy, but there are blessings untold in the bond that is created when we care for others' needs. Most people have no idea what love can enable us to do, and would run from the challenges without trying, but there are rewards beyond comprehension, and I wouldn't trade that for anything.

God bless,
Mary

Lib said...

What a touching post!
I found your Blog via Pumpkin COuntry.|I enjoyed my visit here.
HAve awarm and cozy wk.end!
Blessins',Lib