Sandwiched
This year has been tough on all of us, but of course it’s been especially tough on those most vulnerable to COVID-19 and the medical professionals who care for them. We’ve all read my fellow columnist and dear friend Jan’s words about its effects on her sweet mama (please keep praying for Jan and her family).
If COVID alone doesn’t hurt our elderly, the isolation certainly does. I heard it straight from my mother when we had a heart-to-heart talk on the phone Wednesday.
“It just doesn’t feel like Christmas,” she lamented. Like many elderly people in long-term care facilities, Mom isn’t allowed to even leave her room right now. I can’t imagine what she is going through. It makes me feel helpless and out of control.
However, there is something I can do – work to be her cheerleader. I reminded Mom of our upcoming family Zoom call on Christmas Eve and of her strength.
“Mom, you are one of the toughest ladies I know,” I reassured her. She didn’t think so, but I reminded her that she suffered, and yet survived, one of the greatest losses someone can go through – the death of their child.
My “big little” sister Laurie, as I call her, was born with liver issues in the late 60s and was given only months to live. Laurie miraculously made it to her second birthday. Dr. Erickson, her pediatrician, said it was due to Mom’s love. I believe it.
I let Mom know how much I loved her and told her to hang in there. She called me back a couple of hours later, but since I was in a meeting she had to leave a voice mail telling me her TV wasn’t working. Once again, I felt helpless. Obviously, neither my husband John nor I could just pop over and fix the issue like we used to.
I called her back and told her to grab some of her magazines and books to help pass the time. I also said a little prayer for her. I was delighted when she called me back an hour later.
“Amy, I was just sitting here… I didn’t do a thing… and the TV just suddenly came back on!” she exclaimed in wonder. I chuckled.
“WOW, Mom, it’s a Christmas miracle!” I quipped. The sound of her laughter was absolute music to my ears.
I’ve also sent her brownies, cards, and most recently, a solar-powered dancing flower. I’ll continue to do all I can to be her cheerleader from afar.
During this incredibly stressful end to the year, I hope we can all be a cheerleader for someone who feels defeated, dejected, or just lonely due to COVID (or any reason.) It can do wonders for those we love and help us feel like we can actually control something!