Journal of Sacred Work

2 responses to “Day 145 – Caregiver Memorial Day”

1. 

   ~liz Wessel

   May 25, 2009

   My hero is Dr. Stanley van den Noort MD, neurologist, researcher, mentor, and humanitarian who has made significant contributions to advancing medical knowledge in the area of multiple sclerosis. There are countless medical students who he taught and mentored through the years. Although a brilliant man, what has impressed me most is his overwhelming sense of passion for his work and for helping people. He attempted to retire more than once which meant he cut his hours down to 60 per week. He would go to the ends of the earth for his patients, and to the thousands of people he cared for he is very beloved. He is right up there with Mother Teresa in my book.
   The other half of the equation is his lovely wife June. As a registered nurse, June was an early pioneer in the hospice movement. I was fortunate to work with her when she started one of the first hospice programs in Orange County. June taught and mentored many nurses, including me, in how to provide excellent, compassionate care to people in the final stage of life. Then in 1994, she joined St. Joseph Home Health to start our Hospice program. June worked tirelessly to ensure patients and families received optimal care by creating a stellar program and mentoring her team. Now that Stanley is ill and in need of care, June goes to the end of the earth each day for him, weaving his days in a rich tapestry of Love with undying devotion.
   I would also like to share recollections of my own personal experience with caregivers who tended to me in sickness. I wish to express my deep gratitude to my mom. At age ten I was hospitalized in critical condition with spinal meningitis. She taught me about being present with people in times of need, in the times that are the most scary. I remember Dr. Cahill coming to our house and sending me off to the hospital in an ambulance. I wish to express my appreciation of him for being such a wonderful family doctor. He still practices in New York City but gosh, he must be close to retirement.
   Lastly, I would be remiss if I did not express gratitude to my hero Erie Chapman for awakening my soul’s passion (and countless others)to follow the path of Love in cargiving and in life.
   Dear Journal friends,
   I hope you will participate in the National Moment of Remembrance today at 3pm local time.

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2. 

   Diana Gallaher

   May 25, 2009

   I am remembering the “everyday heroes” who have provided loving care to my mother this past year. I also am remembering the “everyday heroes” at both the state and national level who are fighting for health care justice in this country.

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