Caring for others is rewarding, but it’s a really tough job! We harp on that pretty often here at Heart of the Caregiver, but the reason we do that is because so many people try to do it totally on their own. Anyone who has tried that for any length of time, though, finds out that it just isn’t possible. Every successful family caregiver learns that there are times when you need help; you just can’t do this job by yourself all the time.
Some of that help comes in the form of professional caregivers, those people whose occupation is to provide assistance to people in need. Often, when we think about “professional caregivers” and use that term, nurse aides and home care attendants are the folks that come to mind. But the spectrum of people God has called to be professional caregivers is much broader than that. It also includes doctors, nurses, rescue squad workers, physical, occupational, or speech therapists, counselors, pastors, and so many others. These folks are invaluable when their services are needed. And what would we do without the staff member that draws blood at the lab or helps with administering dialysis or chemotherapy treatments? All these people and many more are professional caregivers, and they are gifted at what they do! They supplement, and occasionally replace, the care you provide. They enhance life for your loved one, and also for you.
As Thanksgiving Day approaches, think about all of the caregivers that God has placed in your life and the lives of those around you. Offer a prayer of thanksgiving for them. And if you cross paths with one of them, tell them how thankful you are for what they do. If you happen to be one of these “angels of mercy”, know that Betsy and I are profoundly grateful to you and for you. Like I said, caring is hard work, and its not a one person job. Thanks be to God for those who have responded to His call to care!
Heart of the Caregiver 