COUNTRY ROAD, TAKE ME HOME
With the windows rolled down, the warm sun beeming through, my sissy, daddy Lenny as we call him, and myself, sang the country song from John Denver “ Country Road”, to the top of our lungs, all the while clapping to the beat. It was a ritual my sissy and dad did every week while on their way to church. Only this time I was there to join in the fun. I had had a sense of urgency to go back to Virginia to see my dad once more and also my sissy before her foot surgery later that week. Those who’s loved ones suffer from dementia know that, at some point, the window of all knowing, will be shut…thus, my visit. There was such JOY with the three of us together, singing, laughing, hugging, reminiscing of all my dads escapades with the Padres, coaching at Morris High School, and, the one close to my dads heart, my mom. What became very clear was the loving care my sister had towards my dad after all these years. It is NOT easy to deal with a loved one with dementia, who at times, isn’t so enthusiastically cooperative to take a shower, redress, or for that matter, want to do anything. Yet, my sister had created routines, like blueberry pancakes after church while watching golf or tennis or football…all the things that brings JOY to my dad. At some point, each of has or will be, involved in the care of a loved one. This brings on new challenges that can cause a person to grow weary, saddened, and sometimes a little depressed. It is in these moments where leaning on God, asking for help from others, becomes a critical part of providing an environment that will give strength and hope to everyone. As I sang the song “ Country Road, take me Home”, with my dad and sissy, it now has a special place in my heart….I cry a little now as I write this blog, but so grateful my sister let me be a part of this moment. Thank you sis for all the wonderful care dad has received…There is so much more to write about this trip ( to be continued) but for now it is about our daddy Lenny….Country Road, take me home, to the place I belong…… love you dad.