Our family bond is unquestionable. Sadly, Dad passed away in 2016 and this made the promise all the more passionate and important. Over the past few years, Mum and I have managed as a Team but it's been so very tough at times. What wasn't truly appreciated was the question of "What do I do if I can't manage on my own to keep that promise?"
The stark reality of this came out of the blue and changed our lives overnight.
A fast track package of home care was initiated following an intensive short hospital admission, and within 72 hours, Mum was home.
I can't describe my own sense of panic and overwhelming fear of wondering what the future held. The outlook was seemingly quite bleak and the fear of losing control was horrendous.
An initial assessment in the home environment was truly appreciated. It wasn't necessary for us to try and come up with what was needed. CM Bespoke so clearly understand "care in the community". It means care in the clients home; understanding the clients hopes and fears; relationship maintenance with family, friends, pets. It means "anything and everything" that makes the client an individual human who is "being" and is not just a person being nursed in bed with "stuff" that needs to be "done".
There has always been warmth, empathy - not sympathy (which is patronising and insincere), patience and incredible observation. Communication is fabulous because every Carer listens, speaks, observes the non-verbal cues that "say so much". The sincerity of care is never in question. E very action is undertaken with consent. Checks are constantly made to ensure Mum has what she needs, but more significantly, she is asked what she wants. Her understanding is not assumed. It is verified and checked back.
Every Carer is friendly, warm, interested, kind, seeks consent, never bullies or pushes but does encourage to either maintain or promote Mums independence. Every Carer is professional, knowledgeable and skillful.
Due to the nature of the care required, we are blessed to have two Carers four times a day. Every day. In the dark. In the cold. In the rain. And with their own personal lives and personalities which they will happily share to build a trusting relationship. The sense of humour and bright cheerfulness is like a light bulb being switched on at every visit. It isn't just Mum who looks forward to the visits. I do as well. Mum is soon to be 93 and she has the sharpest mind. Without these fabulous bright moments, a life confined to a bed within four walls could prove to be disastrous!
I have been given hugs when I have felt lost and overwhelmed. I have been reassured when I am doubting myself.
CM Bespoke are giving me the ability to be a daughter again and not the Carer. I now have quality time to be with my Mum. Without the feelings of guilt and being a failure.
The most amazing thing is that every Carer does just that. They care.
We all would love to think that the people who are involved in care of our loved ones would treat them with dignity and respect. "Treat others as you would wish to be treated yourself".
I can go so far as to say that I've seen some of them caring for my Mum as if she is their own Mum. It has reduced me to tears of gratitude in quiet moments.
To the day I die, I am never going to forget my Mum hugging one of these amazing Carers and saying "I love you". This is priceless. What more could anyone ever hope for?
I recently read something...
- Question: How should we treat others?
- Answer: There are no others.
This is my observation. This is Mum's experience.
CM Bespoke Carers have become a part of our family. The ripples of their care support have extended way beyond the direct care Mum receives.
What more can I say?
Thank you. From Mum. From me. From Dave. From all our family. From friends. And the pets!
Rita and Diane - call me Di ????
