My family thought I should submit this poem I penned on a low day.
My husband (81-years-old) fell in April, breaking his let hip in two places. He had surgery in Red Deer then was sent home to Innisfail Hospital for a spell, then he came home to the house.
No one came to check on whether there were adequate aids he would need. They sent him home to me — the only caregiver — of 84 years of age.
Someone from Occupational Health did come once a week for three weeks to help him shower, otherwise we were on our own.
One daughter lives near, but works, so life was rather stressful.
We did survive and are still together. I lost 25 pounds, which is great at my age.
I know I signed on...
I know I signed on ’til death do us part
But the last few months literally
Things have been falling apart.
Every day seems programmed
From sun up ’til dawn
Some days I’m not sure
What planet I’m on.
I quit driving “Miss Daisy”
He makes my stress level go up!
Any more complaints and
He’ll be ‘pushing them up!’
I’m lucky I still drive
So at least once a week
I just cruise around
And check out different places to eat!
But despite all the complaints,
The ranting and ravin’
I have to admit, I guess
He’s worth savin’
With help from friends, neighbours, family
And our Hutterite clan
We’ll be back to semi-normal —
Just gotta work out a plan!
Nina Jacobson
Innisfail