Life As A Caregiver

This past year, I have become a full- time caregiver.

Not only am I a caregiver to my daughter who has Cerebral Palsy, I have also become my mother’s caregiver as well.

My mother severely broke her leg a little over a year ago.

After surgery, and a few months in a rehabilitation facility, she came to live with me.

She is now back in her home, but still relies heavily on my care.

I now, not only, take care of my daughter’s daily care but have to include my mother’s care as well.

The past year has been overcome with medication refills, Doctor appointments, therapy appointments and many more tasks for caring for my loved ones.

Sometimes, I feel as if I’m drowning in a sea of self pity and hopelessness.

I began to feel myself fall deeper into a pit of depression and everyday I seemed more and more like a different person.

I was no longer the Jennifer I once was, I was just a caregiver.

Things that once brought me joy, such as doing my makeup or fixing my hair, seemed like too much energy to spare.

Everyday seemed just like the day before. Medication refills, phone calls, battling insurance, driving non stop.

I had nothing to look forward to, nothing I wanted to waste my energy on.

Then, as I read my daily devotional, I came across something that opened my eyes to see my true purpose.

From the Daily Word, Love, Inspiration, and Guidance for Everyone.

“Thank God there are people who provide for the care and well- being of others. And perhaps I know and am praying with caring people who give much- needed service and attention to me or my loved ones. All around the world, people- professionals, family and friends- are helping hands. “

“Caring for others day after day requires that a person be responsible, compassionate, and, most important, loving. God is working through caregivers and providing them with the faith, assurance, and wisdom to meet all situations. “

“I extend my love and blessings to the caregivers I know and to the caregivers of the world by affirming this prayer: God blesses all caregivers with the strength and courage needed to care for others. “

This resongnated within me. How truly blessed I am to be trusted by God to be a caregiver. This is part of my journey in life and God’s plan for me.

Does that mean I should let me happiness sit on the sidelines? I don’t think so, I think I should manage my time better and make more time for me, but also make sure my loved ones are well- taken care of and happy.

One day, my mother will no longer be here and I will be in another season in life, but I am truly blessed to get to spend everyday caring for her needs and spending as much time as possible with her.

Taking care of others doesn’t mean you have to give up yourself, it just means your are meant for a greater purpose.

I am still working on managing my time better and learning to do more for myself but everyday I choose to take pride in the care I give my loved ones and enjoy each and every day I have with them.

” Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I; send me!” – Isaiah 6:8