Dear friends
Many years ago, the popular song “Love is a many-splendored thing” was written as a soundtrack for a movie by the same name. Many versions have since been released, and the song has been covered by various artists including Ringo Starr, Frank Sinatra, and Nat King Cole. When I think of the memorable lines, “In the morning mist, two lovers kissed, and the world stood still”, I think about the word ‘love’ and the meaning of it in today’s world. There are so many forms love can take and be expressed: the love of a partner, a child, a pet, a hobby, a movie star, or even your new sweater!
At Isisa Healthcare, our love is for the folk we nurse or care for. A carer is a special being, who is able to do the daily grind of work, but with the added attributes of compassion, understanding, empathy, and love. That love always has a smile, a kind word, a helping hand, an arm to lean on and an ear to listen, or just the comfort of being at the patient’s side so that they know they are not alone through their pain and difficult times.
Anyone who has been a carer will know that some days are really hard, but you cannot walk away from your task because the other person needs you and depends on you to be there for them.
As a team of nurses, we know how important it is important for full-time carers to remember that asking for help when you’re tired, or feeling overwhelmed, does not mean you’re useless or not up to the task. It’s a difficult, exhausting, and demanding role, and if you ask for help, someone out there will always help. It may be your neighbour, a friend, your local GP, or your Pastr. And, of course, Isisa Healthcare – we offer Respite Care precisely because we know how important it is for carers to care for themselves.
Give yourself time to heal, too. Much of the pain, suffering, and desperation you are trying to manage will take its toll on your life. Show yourself as much love and kindness as you do the patient you are nursing.
To all carers, whoever you are, and whoever your family or patients are, remember that you are not alone. What you do is a very special kind of love, and we salute you.
We wish you peace, kindness, and love.
Sister Mary