KUDOS from Kelly

by Kelly McNamara

Karenly Sanchez and Celine Murray: Our client Mr. B is a lucky man. He has had some health setbacks, lost his beloved wife of decades a short time ago. He is blessed with a loving supportive family of 4 sons and one daughter, who, based upon the stories he proudly relates about his wife, inherited many of her admirable traits. His children stop in regularly to check on him and join in the activities in the lovely senior community where he has lived for several years. Even his daughter who lives in California, makes regular visits. These routine family connections enrich his life in myriad ways. There are seniors living in communities such as Mr. B’s who rarely take part in the wide array of activities. But Mr. B never misses a meal, and plans carefully, requesting substitutions at times. He attends daily exercise class, movies, varying widely in topic and theme. He is a whiz at words games as well. He never misses Friday Shabbat.

Some caregivers are not comfortable with frequent family visits. Not Celine and Karenly. They are fond of all his children and provide privacy or join in activities as desired by Mr. B and his children. Mr. B has had a distinguished career as a lawyer ( in practice with his wife ! ) and served his country in the Navy. He is a brilliant man with a fine grasp of history and an enduring intellectual curiosity. Tom Tella, Regina’s husband enjoys visits with him where they talk for hours about music, theater, politics, and history like two school boys. Mr. B is a charming conversationalist.

Karenly is a survivor of the recent devastating hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico. She was transported to California where she worked as a caregiver. Then a few months ago she moved to Ct, and happily for all of us, became Mr. B’s weekday caregiver. They struggled a bit at the beginning due to Karenly’s heavily accented English but soon it became apparent that her affection, attention and engaging with him more than compensated for these adjustments. His weekend caregiver , Celine is a seasoned professional caregiver who is an excellent clinician, an astute observer of any changes in her client for whom she cares so much. Karenly, who left many family members in her native Puerto Rico regards Mr. B as a substitute family member and treats and care for him this way.

Finally, the real beauty of this caregiver team and their genuine caring, respect and concern for this friend and client is the very positive and respectful relationship they have for each other as his care team.

Bravo, Karenly and Celine…..And all the best to your special client and friend.

All caregivers mentioned in this column will receive a bonus and our sincere gratitude! Many many thanks to all of you for once again extending yourselves to ensure that we are of course Always There…!! ■