Gifts from unexpected places. Pam never smiled or acknowledged anyone. As I walk right past her in nursing home lobby every day on the way to Dwayne, I could not feel OK not acknowledging her. So I would say, Hello Pam, you look nice today. She has nice clothes that are colorful and compliment her light brown skin. At first, she would just look away when I came in. Then, as she saw me, she began to furtively raise her hand in a hello, and quickly run it through her hair or wipe her forehead, as though she were protecting herself from embarrassment in the event I did not acknowledge her. Over time she trusted enough to great me with a glorious smile and warm handshake. I have gotten her to talk a bit, especially when I am accompanied by Buddy dog. My next goal is to get her to let me give her a kiss on the forehead. Because our country is insane, many elderly residents of nursing homes do not get touched beyond what is necessary for their basic care. Not because the caregivers dont care, but because of liability. Few gifts in my life have been as wonderful as Pams luminous smile.
Posted on: Sat, 27 Dec 2014 16:22:26 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015