A single construction paper feather sits atop each dinner plate. A featherless, paper bag turkey lies as a centerpiece on my family’s Thanksgiving table. Friends and family are asked to write what they are most thankful for on their paper feather. All of the feathers are gathered and affixed to the paper turkey after everyone has had a turn reading their ‘thanks’. Words of appreciation take different shapes as generations gather and reflect. I always love this part of the meal watching everyone as they earnestly disclose their gratefulness. Pausing and reflecting on what we most appreciate in life is why we gather on Thanksgiving (in addition to a delicious meal)!
Home Care Nursing has given me lots to be thankful for. Here are a few of my nursing ‘feathers’:
- I’m thankful for the many patients who have welcomed me into their homes at a vulnerable time in their lives.
- I’m thankful for families who try so very hard to take good care of their loved ones.
- I’m thankful for home health aides who are the true heroes in home care.
- I’m thankful for fast food chains whose clean toilets are a lifesaver
- I’m thankful for cell phones. Making home visits without them seems like eons ago.
- I’m thankful for the Internet. Medical information is just a keystroke away on a laptop, smart phone or iPad.
- I’m thankful for working in a profession that has given me the opportunity to wear many caps while providing for my family.
- I’m thankful for the many stories I’ve heard about the lives of my patients and the trust that they’ve given me over the years.
Happy Thanksgiving to all!
Debra Bertrand, CHAMP Facilitator
I am very grateful for GPS replacing my many torn, faded, scribbled on and ripped maps. And more praise for our HHAs.
I am thankful for having a wonderful mother who takes care of our whole family and makes the best stuffing ever.
Here’s a shout out to all of you ‘listening’ to your GPS as you’re making your holiday visits today. Who makes house calls? Home Care Nurses do!!!