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When you're the caregiver, your needs matter too
Being the primary caregiver for an elderly or ill parent or spouse is a full-time job — and a very stressful one too. Your physical and emotional endurance can be pushed to the limits. At these times, taking care of your own needs is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your loved one.
As manager of Social Services for TGMC, Penny Brooks, LCSW, knows this better than most. "Taking care of a loved one may be the hardest job you'll ever have," Brooks says. "Caregivers often feel guilty if they spend time away from the person they are caring for. 'I can't leave Mom' or 'I feel guilty if I leave my husband with someone else' are remarks we commonly hear. But it's not only normal to want a little time to yourself, it's healthy." Caregivers need to go to the post office, to the grocery store and to do things just for themselves, like getting their hair done or going to the gym. "Caregivers shouldn't neglect their own needs," Brooks says. "We all require a little help sometimes. Reach out for the help that's necessary for you to continue to function as a caregiver and to feel good."
Brooks' advice is crucial. If family members live nearby, hold a meeting to talk through the options and make a plan for them to participate in caring for your loved one. If family members don't live close enough, perhaps they will consider a financial contribution so you can hire occasional help.
You can't do it all — and you'll be a healthier, happier caregiver if you aren't the only caregiver.
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Christina Swenson June 2003
Terrebonne General Medical Center congratulates Christina Swenson, rehab tech, who was the recipient of the June TGMC Hero Award.
On May 24, Vickie Naquin, secretary of TGMC's Patient Financial Service, was the passenger in a hit-and-run accident at the corner of Barrow and Main streets. Christina happened upon the accident before the ambulance arrived and immediately took control of Vickie's situation. She applied pressure to the cut on her face, calmed her down and stayed with her until she was transported to the hospital.
"I am grateful for her compassion and willingness to stop and assist," says Vickie. "After the accident, I met her in the halls of the hospital, and she stopped to give me the warmest, friendliest hug because she was glad to know that I was all right. That in itself meant so much — to know that her compassion flows over even after the fact. Her patients are very lucky."
Nick Hebert, Ryan Rome and Jeffrey Tipton July 2003
Terrebonne General Medical Center congratulates Nick Hebert, Ryan Rome and Jeffrey Tipton, three summer workers, on being named July's TGMC Heroes.
On one of the hottest summer days to date, Nick, Ryan and Jeffrey, transporters in radiology, were on their way home just before lunch. They saw TGMC Volunteer Olga Engeron's car stall as she was leaving the parking garage. The elderly woman was frantic — her car was blocking the lunchtime rush of cars leaving the garage. The three young men pushed the car out of the garage into a parking lot across the street and out of the way of traffic. They then brought Olga inside out of the heat to call for assistance.
"These men are heroes, not only in Olga Engeron's eyes, but in the eyes of the entire hospital," says volunteer coordinator Lisa Arcement, who submitted the nomination. "We salute these summer workers and wish them well in all they do. We're thankful they were in the right place at the right time."
Mendy Chaisson August 2003
Terrebonne General Medical Center would like to congratulate Mendy Chaisson, registered nurse in the Short Stay Center, on being named August's TGMC Hero.
After being discharged from the Short Stay Center, a patient and his family discovered their car had a flat tire. Mendy, realizing the gentleman was her patient, went outside and changed the tire herself. Only then was the patient able to go home and rest after his surgery.
"We praise her unselfish kindness," remarked co-worker Katherina Hawkins from Short Stay.
TGMC would like to commend Mendy for her selfless act. She certainly took customer service to a whole new level!
If you know a Terrebonne General Medical Center employee who deserves to be honored as a TGMC Hero, here's your chance. Write a brief description of the person and his or her heroic deed, and send it to: Terrebonne General Medical Center, ATTN: Marketing & Planning Department, PO Box 6037, Houma, LA 70361-6037. Be sure to include your name and phone number. For more information, call (985) 873-4773.
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