My mom is amazing. She is eighty-eight years old and still
going strong. Yes, she finds it necessary to walk cautiously due to a knee
issue that could throw her to the ground at any moment; however, she is wise to
be careful and make good use of her constant companion--the trusty cane.
I am thankful that she lives just a few minutes from us and
that I have the flexibility to be there for her for medical appointments, shopping,
and any other errands that she may need to accomplish. She is such a sweet,
delightful person, and she deserves the best.
T. Allen Winn felt so strongly about his experience in overseeing
the well-being of his elderly relatives, he wrote a book about it.
The Care Giver’s Son walks us through a journey of transitioning
from only child, free spirit son to drafted participant in care giving. Winn
discovers that grandparents and parents are not immortal creatures who will always
be there as our protectors and CEO’s of all family matters.
He finds that his life, and that of his wife, take an
unexpected detour that is packed with personal sacrifice and challenge when it
becomes his responsibility to find a way to maintain employment and still be
there for his parents’ and grandmother’s needs.
With a promise made to his terminally ill mother that he
would never place his father or grandmother in a nursing home, he honorably
complies and struggles with now being in charge, along with the assistance of
his angelic wife, who supported his promise and endured her own lifestyle
sacrifices.
Within ninety days, both parents passed away, leaving the
Winns reeling with sadness, but still responsible for Granny. God’s plan was
for Granny to soon join them, with all three passing away within an eleven
month period.
Winn speaks for all caregivers when he says, “I had kept the
promise. It appeared we were no longer caregivers. I’d give anything to have
all of them back.”
This book shines the candid spotlight on a topic that most
don’t even consider until it enters their world. Reading The Care Giver’s Son is an eye-opening reality check for everyone
who is currently or will eventually go down this same road. I am convinced that
there is a special street in heaven that rewards those who have known the
roller coaster ride and selflessness affiliated with being a dedicated
caregiver.
If you are in the position of caregiver and find yourself
frustrated or losing patience, just remember this: Pray that someone will one
day be patient and kind to YOU when you become that elderly individual who
needs assistance.
God Bless the folks in need of care, as well as the caregivers!
All the best,
Mary Anne Benedetto
Certified Lifewriting Instructor and author of Eyelash, Never Say Perfect, 7 Easy
Steps to Memoir Writing: Build a Priceless Legacy One Story at a Time!, From Italy with Love & Limoncello
and Write Your Pet’s Life Story in 7 Easy Steps!
