Arriving at the Hospital the other morning for Suzanne’s Port placement provided me an interesting observation. Suzanne was carrying her small purse that contained her phone, ID’s, and glasses. I was with my ‘Man Bag’ that has been a part of me since college. In this bag, I carry everything I think we will need as we navigate this Journey

At registration, we were asked about Suzanne’s Medical Power of Attorney. I had provided that at another office but they indicated that doesn’t appear in hospital files. So from my bag, I provided them the document they needed. Suzanne was tagged and I was given a visitor’s badge. I am able to accompany Suzanne throughout the Rush hospital complex because I’m her caregiver.

From there, we had to check in with the waiting area before we were called back to pre-op. Located in the hallway, busy with people passing all around, it was difficult to hear all that she was asking. Finally, checked in, we sat in the hall and waited.

It was sitting there with others, it became evident to me that I was not alone. In that short period of time, I saw couple after couple going into the registration area. Women carrying a small purse or nothing at all and their husbands with satchels & backpacks, often carrying their wife’s purse. I see the wife begin the registration process and the husband stepping in providing necessary documentation. That’s when I realized, I’m just one of those guys.

Doing what is necessary, keeping their partner comfortable, handling the business at hand, doing what is needed to be done. A caregiver’s job is a diverse one. Whether male or female, the caregiver has to be available at the drop of a hat.

The other observation I made was how obvious it is that my job has been an easy one so far. Suzanne is still capable of doing anything she did 31 days ago when she was diagnosed. The challenges that I see other caregivers are facing makes me say a quick prayer for each one of them. To top it off, it is also mind-boggling how many other people around the world must also be involved in similar circumstances and how fortunate we are to be here in America and the health systems we have. A humbling thought.

So the next time you see someone who is struggling with this debilitating, demoralizing, crippling, unsettling, unending disease, look close, and you will most likely see the caregiver, graciously, generously, and unselfishly faithful not too far behind.

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.
2 Timothy 2:15