Since my wife suffered a major stroke almost a year ago some things have been very different.
While she’s as funny and clever and affectionate as ever we’ve been on a necessary learning curve with all kinds of hospitals and therapists. Her talking and mobility continue to improve for which we’re very thankful.
Something that has been pretty different is to have ‘carers’ coming into our home to help with quite basic things. This goes out with a big thankyou to Beth, Julie and Joy for all your cheerful visits and kindness!
However the main responsibility of care remains with the next of kin and while I don’t resent it for a second it can be frankly exhausting. I have to stay strong and keep going but at times I feel myself weak and vulnerable. Again I’m thankful for the Lord my Shepherd, my ‘Carer’ on Whom I can depend for support.
Lord, please be my Carer
Look after me 24/7
For I am crippled with worry and fear.
My body and brain are sore and so tired
My heart is struggling
Weighed down with sadness and guilt.
Help me rise, wash me, dress and feed me
With your righteousness, grace and love
Cause me to know and feel your comfort.
And come back soon to prepare me for rest
Secure in your promise of forever
And through my tears I will give you thanks.