CARER TRUST

Today, I went to hospital with my wife (my Carer), as she was having a pre- operative appointment, in anticipation of her undergoing an investigative procedure, under general anaesthetic, on Thursday. I was delighted that she agreed to me accompanying her into the consultation. Understandably, at my suggestion, it was on the understanding that I say nothing when she was with the specialist nurse. My wife did however say to me that if there was something I thought important that she might have omitted to say, then I should do so. This was a tremendous demonstration of trust and faith on her part, that she was prepared to risk my being present. (I use the word "risk" advisably, as I acknowledge, there was an element of risk involved on her part) However, I am delighted to report that the consultation proceeded without a hitch and I was even able to assist, when asked by my wife to confirm some information that was required.

Now, one may ask why did the above mean so much to you? Well, it demonstrated to me that in a potentially risky situation, my wife was still able to place her trust in me that I would be able to behave as agreed.  The fact that I did so was a relief to her and to me! Unfortunately, these days, I cannot accurately predict what my response will be in different sets of circumstances and so this was a very special and morale boosting ocassion.  On Thursday, when my wife goes to the hospital for the, day case, procedure to be carried out, a friend of hers will be taking her and bringing her home. I will be at home walking the hills with Blossom, our Springer Spaniel, eagerly awaiting her return.

Coincidentally, on the early morning TV news programme today, there was a gentleman with Alzheimer's, who was in the studio with his carer wife. They were being interviewed live regarding how he had been diagnosed and how they managed the disease. It was good to see this gentleman describing, quite clearly, some aspects of issues involved re the circumstances surrounding events which eventually resulted in his diagnosis and the involvement / lack of involvement of health professionals. Anyway, seeing him gave me added encouragement and incentive to accompany my wife to the clinic today.

So I hope, that in the same way, these blogs may be not just a beneficial expressive release for myself, but possibly, also, a use full / helpful insight and encouragement for others on the dementia journey, their carers and maybe even health professionals with an interest in the subject.

JSAFGA