to the lowest of lows. My husband was diagnosed with cellulitis
and required hospitalization.
Even though he's home, he still needs to go to the hospital for IV antibiotic therapy twice a day, with no end in sight.
On top of it, my mother was admitted into the hospital on Sunday
for elevated potassium and weakness from it. This too isn't an easy fix. She probably will need to do rehab in a nursing home to rebuild strength.
Meanwhile, I'm trying to keep life going forward. I need to work, and then I need to keep up with the house plus be a mom and caregiver.
My son has been amazing through all this, because his whole world has been turned upside down. He has autism and routine is very, very, VERY important to him. Right now, he doesn't have any routine. Due to hospitalizations and crisis, we haven't been to church or crossed a single solitary thing off
our summer bucket list (thanks to www.simplykierste.com for the great idea).
I've had a lot of people tell me that if I need something to let them know. I've said that to others. My old church in NJ had a ministry called Soups & Smiles that provided meals when a loved one was ill, had died or a new life came into the world. It's very similar to the
Relief Society's Compassionate Service. Believe me, just knowing I don't have to cook a meal can be a source of relief.
I've learned to not volunteer a vague I'm here for you unless I truly meant it. I ask if they need a meal or babysitting or mop their floor or walk their dog. It takes the awkwardness away, because being on the other side, you want to appear strong.
Some ideas when you want to help someone in need or crisis:
Mow their lawn/shovel their snow
Take their kids to the park for a few hours
Go grocery shopping for them
Bring a meal
Take them out for coffee
Pray not just for them but with them
Spend time with their loved one so the caregiver can rest
Gift cards for coffee, car wash or gas
Clean their house (even a room helps)
Do laundry for them
Bring them flowers
Gift a spa day. It's amazing how much a manicure can make a difference
Run errands for them
Bring fresh baked bread (that smell is magical)
Weed the garden or rake their leaves
Send a card
Give an hour of uninterrupted listening time for them to vent
Gift a book or journal
Be their lifeline
Cupcakes
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