Trials and Triumphs of Caregivers

By: Rosemary J. Allender, LCSW-C

How Can I Thank you

You are special

I will still love you

Even with the roles reversed

At first I feared taking on the task

Caregiving has strengthened our bond

Memories are saved in the family scrapbook

It seems like only yesterday that you were my age

We all sat at the table as you cooked the holiday meal

Everyone gathered for the traditional family time together

There were grandparents, cousins, aunts, uncles and siblings

Each year it seemed like our numbers grew in leaps and bounds

Somehow, the years have slipped away and so have the crowds

We no longer need the extra card table, folding chairs or silverware

Many moved away and others have died, but we still have each other

I’m now the one cooking your secret recipes and keeping an eye on you

Life has been stressful, but I still appreciate the time that we have together

Age may have robbed you of your vitality, but not your spunk or personality

You still have that sly little grin, joyous smile and that twinkle in your eyes

Although I don’t know what you are trying to say or whether to laugh or cry

When I wonder how to make it through another day, you give me the desire

I think of all that I put you through as a teen and caring for you is easier

The trips to the doctors

Late night adventures

Wandering the halls

Sharing a cup of tea

Looking for dentures

I embrace your smile

I’m much more aware

Of the time left to share

As we hug in the night

Coping with the anger

And whisper I love you ■