Thanksgiving Time

It is that time of the year to pig out on turkey and such.  But alsoa time to think about what we are actually thankful for.  Carol is at the center of our thanks this year.  Certainly, she is still in the final stage of Alzheimer's but God really seems to be using Carol as a Witness at the Alzheimer's Special Care Unit.  I have tried to tell you a little in the last few posts about the love she seems to be handing out to those around her.  She is so content and peaceful and really seems to like the life she is still living.  Of course she does not remember any of the old Carol,  the new Carol sure seems happy. 

The Christain Care Center just had their annual fund raising banquet and invited Carman and I, as special guest.  They had interviewed me several weeks before and included a few minutes in to their Festival of Trees 2010 DVD.  I hope you can view it by clicking below.    

Alzheimer's Spc Care Unit

Carol's unit has been able to recover Irene, the Activity aide who had been relocated for several weeks. It is a real blessing to have Irene back. She has a special knack for making the residents happier and less stressful for the rest of the shift staff. Janet and others did a valient job entertaining the residents but where really to busy with answering phones, dispensing medicine, taking vital signs, etc. Irene really has a way with activities.

The staff is so important to the operation of the Unit and we (families, residents, and especially the staff themselfs) are really happy to be back again to such a fantastic unit.

Thanks to management for recognizing the need to return to old plan.

"ANOTHER BEATITUDE"

These verses are printed and framed in a 12"x18" frame on the wall of the corridor that leads to Carols
Special Care Alzheimer's Unit at the Christian Care Center in Mesquite, Tx.   I look at it often and thought it should be posted in Carol's Blog.  

"BLESSED are they who understand
     my faltering step and shaking hand,

BLESSED, who know my ears today
     who strain to catch the things they say.

BLESSED are they who seem to know
     my eyes are dim and my mind is slow.

BLESSED are they who look away.
    I spilled my tea on the cloth that day!

BLESSED are they who, with cheery smile,
     stopped to chat for a little while.

BLESSED are they who know the way
     to bring back memories of yesterday.

BLESSED are they who never say,
     “You’ve told me that story twice today!”

BLESSED are they who make it known
     that I’m loved, respected and not alone.

And BLESSED are they who will ease the days
     of my journey home, in loving ways."

By Elisabeth Clark