In a Relationship With a Dis-Abled Person

Fate stepped in and dealt us a harsh and cruel blow when we least expect it! Up to one year ago, my mother was the great thought and Solution to anything that stomps us, the stalwart in the family. Fate laughed at us even after allowing her to remain for hours without needed oxygen on a hard cold floor; When initial visits to the institution witnessed arms and legs Waving and galloping for reports to the rheumatologist. Bias due to "aging" non-aggressively occurred. Currently in this relationship with a post-stroke disabled I bonded with before birth, Bonded because she new me as I twisted, summersaulted and lazily stretched out both arms and legs. Ouch! Being in a relationship with the dis-ABLED is challenging But one has to remember the days not long ago of tenderness, Willingness of that one to even giving up some things needed. This is also a shared relationship, seeing that myself, siblings, And other family members take turns in rendering care along with other professional help. We all reminisce on past events and special occasions spent with Mother from framed pictures lining the walls and neatly stacked albums; causing "joy to be in the tent" as the Lord grants it. Though at time it may be frustrating and tiresome, Never giving up but encouraging and pursuading, Thinking about the past good qualities, helpfulness and love Promotes with God's help strength, brevity and courage to carry on. Showing the same patience, helping with relearning new ways and Adopting skills to compensate for lost ones' Life goes on surrounded by those you loved and who love you. Anxiety shared by all during visitations to institutions, Where high-technology is utilized to discover any deterioration, abnormality and Doctor Home Visits. Where qualified staff do their best to assist in returning to The best optimum of life tolerated by God's grace. Returning home, all endeavor to prevent anxiety in security mode, create an environment of Care and Caring for all activities of daily living; which depends on well wishers and those rendering care: A- airway monitoring to keep it clear and unblocked. B- breathing to see it regular, chest rising and falling evenly. C- circulation, checking for nose bleeds, bleeding in urine and stool. D- check skin for redness during bed bath, rash, exercise limbs, turn and position, place out of bed to sit, feed and medicate as ordered; keep doctor's appointments as scheduled. Being in a relationship with a disabled person is a special quality, A gift developed over time. Wanting the best to hold on to, defying the "demon" that has caused a Diversity of the norm regular home visits, daily telephone calls, And involvement in Church Activities in the highest stilettoes and updated fashion styles at age 85! In a relationship with a dis-ABLED person - Poetry Contest Poetry Contest Deadline: Saturday, December 03, 2016 12:00:00 AM Sponsored by: W. Thomas Markham