Rolling with Sarah

 There comes a point in some people’s treatment where their family has to return to daily life. So what then? Well, that is where a PSW or caregiver comes into play. They look after the patient for their daily routine, like getting them up and dressed, assisting with personal hygiene, making food, and just generally keeping them company. It can be difficult to find the right person to be a caregiver for a loved one. They have to get along. They have to have trust. The caregiver needs to feel comfortable doing their duties. The caregiver has to be properly compensated. There are a lot of important factors that go into this selection.

I have had a few caregivers in my time. Some have been better than others. Some I would rather just forget. I never in a million years thought I’d be lucky enough to have a caregiver like Robin. She was a true friend.

The first thing Robin asked when she entered our home was how she could make my life better. Not what was in it for her, not what her responsibilities were, nothing like that. From the very beginning she was focused on making my life the best it could be.

As time went on, my love for Robin only grew. She listened to me, encouraged me, and pushed me to become the best I could be. I wouldn’t be at the point I am today without her. She held me to higher standards and inspired me to work on my independence but she did so in a caring, gentle way. She held me while I cried, talked me through some terrible moments and held my hand through my journey to recovery.

Eventually it came time for us to part ways. She was ready for retirement and I was much more able to do daily activities. My mother decided to retire so she could be with me on a daily basis . This was a tough goodbye. But it wasn’t a final farewell, not really. Robin is still one of my biggest supporters. She is always one of the first to like every post. I always smile when my phone rings and I see Robin’s name, checking in to see how I’m doing.

You come across a lot of people in your lifetime. Some you remember, others you don’t. Rarely do you find someone as special as Robin. She is truly unforgettable. I was privileged to have her as a caregiver and to be able to consider her a friend for life. ❤