A patient and Isabelle Jennings, a young caregiver, developed a close bond at the Life Care Center in Kansas City through music, especially hymns. Regularly providing assistance to Mary Helen Schmelze, Isabelle also visited her room every Friday to sing a song.
A few months after they first met, Mary’s health started to decline. Congestive heart failure was on the verge of taking her life.
On her day off, Isabelle visited the care facility and performed a song for Mary one more time. She had selected the song “In the Garden.”.
Julie, Mary’s daughter, captured the nursing assistant’s lovely singing for a friend on tape.
Isabelle insisted that she genuinely cared about everyone and was always willing to help. She comforted her family when they found out about her condition and Mary’s grandson. Every time Mary saw Isabelle, she encouraged her to sing for her.
The video was uploaded to YouTube by Julie, Mary Helen’s daughter, a few days after her mother passed away to inspire other caregivers. In the movie, Mary Helen shares her experience as a caregiver and offers advice to those who may be in a similar situation.
The best gift you can give someone, in Julie’s opinion, is your time. It will be much more valuable to your family and friends than anything material.
Along with giving direct patient care, caregivers have a critical role in educating patients and their families about their health issues.
Only caregivers can make the healthcare system whole. They provide the necessary care for patients in a variety of settings, such as private homes and hospitals.
Although important, the caregiver’s role is frequently undervalued. The emotional support offered by caregivers is in addition to the physical care they give. They frequently stay with patients during trying times, such as when they first learn they have a serious illness or when they are undergoing difficult therapy.
Both their emotional and physical needs must be met by caregivers. Caregivers frequently need to juggle tasks like administering medications, making appointments, and giving personal care. Caregivers may feel powerless due to the amount of this, which could be overwhelming.
If you are a caregiver, be aware that you are not alone. Many people who are aware of what you are going through and can offer you support during this difficult time.
The daily generosity of countless skilled healthcare professionals goes largely unnoticed. We value your generosity and the affection you have for your patients.
Best wishes from the Seneca, Kansas, team at Life Care. Isabelle has brought comfort to so many people, and we are grateful for that. Grandma Helen wishes you luck.
