Sandwiched
We’ve witnessed so many heroic actions throughout this pandemic it’s hard to narrow the list down to just one particular group. I hope you don’t mind me saluting one today.
A week ago Thursday, my Mom’s facility hosted a “drive thru” parade in honor of Mother’s Day. When I first received the notice I chuckled. It was scheduled at 2 p.m. – smack dab in the middle of a virtual grant professionals’ conference I had signed up for. I literally had turned away two other invitations for that day to protect that time. But there was no way I was going to miss this chance to see my mom!
My sons and I made signs that morning to hold on to the side of our car. The weather forecast looked promising – sunny all day, which was good for the mostly elderly residents. A 66-degree afternoon is still chilly for older folks!
Jonathon, Jacob and I piled into our vehicle about 15 minutes ahead of the start time. My stomach flipped and flopped a bit – what if people wouldn’t show up? I know many of us are still working from home and may not be able to take the time.
I needn’t have worried, as the picture illustrates. Cars were already lined up at 1:50 p.m. My heart swelled when I saw the signs, balloons and staff members lined up ready to guide us along the route.
Jacob drove, which was smart because I couldn’t stop looking out the windows as I sat in the backseat. I rolled them down to make certain I could shout my appreciation out to each and every staff member. I can’t imagine how challenging it was to coordinate this event to make certain all of the residents could be outside at a safe distance from one another.
I loved seeing all of the residents smiling and waving, some huddled up under blankets. I made certain to say hello to as many of them as I could. I’m sure my sons were rolling their eyes a bit at my enthusiasm. I loved seeing the familiar faces, but I couldn’t wait to see the most familiar one of all.
As we rounded one corner, I saw her – Mom, wearing her usual purple (she LOVES her purple and blue clothes). The tears of joy instantly sprang to my eyes and my heart pounded. I didn’t want her to see me crying, so I wiped the tears away and leaned out the window, furiously waving at her.
“Hi, Mom! We love you! We miss you!” I yelled as we all clutched our signs and waved. Mom smiled and waved back in recognition.
I couldn’t resist teasing her a bit.
“Are ya freezing?” I asked, as the sun had gone behind the clouds when we entered the parking lot.
“YES!” she replied without hesitation. We had a good chuckle.
As we drove out of the parking lot a couple of minutes later, I reflected on this day that I knew I’d never forget. Thank you to all of the heroes working in facilities housing our most vulnerable and much-loved family member and friends. You are incredible.