The Heroes that I should have thanked

She caught my eye and nodded. The sight of her able hands and reassuring smile gave me tremendous relief. Because of her, my husband could work, and our family could have some respite. As I left the building, I have often wondered if I ever thanked her and her colleagues enough for all that she did to help us.

Three years ago, my husband’s father joined us in the Memphis area when his dementia left him unable to stay on his farm. He lived with us for a time, but his needs, especially his desire to wander in the middle of the night, forced us to search for a safe and loving place for him to call home.

We were lucky to find a senior living apartment that included a wonderful memory care option only a short drive from of our house. My husband visited his father every morning and both men enjoyed their time together. In a truly beautiful way, the journey through Alzheimer’s disease allowed my husband to uniquely care for the parent that once had cared for him.

Unfortunately, my father-in-law’s decline was inevitable, and he passed away from his illness.

During those long months of deteriorating health, my husband and I were so appreciative of the entire staff of the memory care unit. The tireless nursing assistants who worked most closely with the residents were the true paragons of virtue. Their ongoing daily ministry allowed my father-in-law to enjoy dignity and respect in his final chapter of life.

These days, stories featuring frontline healthcare heroes are fairly common. The television news correctly depicts these wonderful people and the service they compassionately give. Often, our family watches these headlines only to reflect upon the quiet angels that graced our lives for two years. We were so blessed to know the women who bathed, fed and cared for our family member. These gallant ladies were the best. For their patients and the families that were helped, they truly change that world.