Kudos From Kelly
Our Everyday Heros By Kelly McNamara
One of our caregivers, a long-term full time live in, was cherished by her elderly charming client and her family. This particular case was moving along smoothly, the primary caregiver in place on weekdays, supported by her “partner” on weekends. Suddenly the primary caregiver was faced with a very serious situation within her family that required her immediate attention and full-time focus. She needed to leave immediately. Since live caregivers and their clients have a solid long-term relationship, we were reluctant to replace this caregiver on short notice with a “sub live in”.
The plan, staffing the gaps in the client’s care with hourly caregivers, all assigned 12-hour shifts, went into effect. Immediately the weekend live in caregiver, Lena, stepped up without being asked, and extended her hours.
We then appealed to both veterans as well as new caregivers to staff the needed shifts. Candy, a long time reliable senior caregiver, immediately stepped up to fill the night shifts. Our new office assistant, Keliomayra also conveniently, a caregiver, took on day shifts and filled in where needed. Another new caregiver, Bella also filled in on days. Although we were quite concerned about our special client unused to new caregivers changing daily, night staff staying awake, it seemed that was the least of our worries.
The client a 95-year-old lady was charmed by her new caregivers. All were similarly entranced with her. Each caregiver enjoyed her time with this special lady and was quite willing to pitch in again to fill any open hours.
Lena, the regular weekend caregiver, was especially gracious, putting aside any personal commitments to extend her hours with her client, providing stability and assistance to the new “fill ins”. The client enjoyed her new friends and appreciated the extra attention. Similarly, they all enjoyed her.
A week later, good news arrived. The original caregiver resolved her issues, and is returning to work next week, after a seamless transition.
Many many thanks to all our special “subs” who arranged their family responsibilities to help out a fellow caregiver in need.
Another reminder (as if we needed one) that we are Always There…For our clients, for their families, and for each other. Our sincere gratitude to all!
All caregivers mentioned in this column will receive a bonus and our sincere gratitude! Many thanks to all of you for once again extending yourselves to ensure that we are of course Always There…!! ■