When the cavalry arrive

It’s a cliche to say ‘as a society we don’t talk about death enough’, but having recently experienced the passing of a parent, I can understand why; it’s incredibly hard to. When someone close to you is dying, your life quickly turns into a restless scenario where you and your family members respond to new practical and emotional challenges. It telescopes your daily life into one or two significant rooms, just several phone numbers (such as the district nurse, the British Red Cross, or the pharmacy), the presentation of new doctor’s notes, new symptoms, and always the painful discussion that follows them.

What do caregivers do?

Our caregiver, who prefers to remain unnamed.

Professional caregivers come into these environments and rescue everyone. The sense of relief when ours came through the door for the first time was profound, and through her quiet competence and serene manner she left an indelible mark on the family. While getting to know her I learned that the role of community carers isn't celebrated anywhere near enough, no doubt due to the uncomfortable truth of when you’ll need them. Now I’ve experienced it myself, I think these uncommon people deserve applause wherever they can get it.

In her words

“I wake them up, I get them dressed,

I brush their hair, so they look their best.

I cut their nails and make their bed.

The little things that no-one knows.

I hold their hand, when they are scared.

I talk to them, when no-one's there.

I give them a friend, when they’re alone

I treat them like family, one of my own.

And when it's time to save a life.

I keep my heart strong, and hold my head high.

It’a an honour to care and I’m proud to share.”

Retouch by Lara Ostertag - https://www.laraostertag.com