Being a full time caregiver isn't just about cooking wholesome, nutritious meals for the elderly or disabled. It's not just about standing guard while baths are being taken and washing their feet or drying their backs. Being a caregiver is not just about ushering the elderly or disabled to their many doctors' appointments and keeping account of their Medicare cards and insurance cards.
No. Being a caregiver is paying attention to the little things in their lives. Straws are one thing that you will find in my home. Thin, bendable straws for my mother and fat, thick straws for Truett.
You see, Mom's lymphoma was on her mouth, so the only means of eating for her last year was with a straw. Many times Mom would ask a nurse or a doctor, "Have you ever sucked up oatmeal through a straw just so you could eat?" After a few seconds she would proudly acclaim, "Well, I have!"
Truett's Bells Palsy, or paralysis on the left side of his face has affected his mouth. What goes in the right side of the mouth, comes dribbling out the left side. Straws are his only sure way of drinking without drooling.
At first it was unnerving for me to hear, "May I have a straw please?" or "You forgot my straw." Heavens to Betsy! I would have to go back to the kitchen and choose the right straw for the right person.
In 1888, Marvin Stone patented the spiral winding process to makethe first paper drinking straw. I must say I'm glad he did because drinking through a straw saves wear and tear on shirts or blouses with milk or juice stains.
This morning as I was cleaning the kitchen I looked at all the straws I have in a box. I have decided to purchase an old fashioned straw container for my kitchen to display the many straws I have. You may recognize some of the straws as coming from McDonalds, Hardees or Krystals. We even have a few from Taco Bell.
Taking care of the tiny needs of the elderly or disabled is part of the job; thus, STRAWS!
Comments