A Caretaker in Need of Care

This time last year Ms. D. was not only independent, she a primary caretaker in Cleveland, TN. She made this move to Cleveland out of compassion, driven by her understanding of the desire to maintain a familiar lifestyle in one’s own home. Recently Ms. D. had to leave this position because she developed ataxia, a condition that limits her ability to walk and control her fine motor skills. She “falls at the drop of a hat. [Her] limbs give out.”

Thinking of the heart wrenching memory of her father’s last days after his battle with this very same disease, Ms. D. knew it was time to return home and find help. This was a difficult realization for someone who has always been a giver. She made jokes about her kids needing to do a better job of distinguishing between her December birthday and Christmas so that she got her fair share of gifts. But the truth is that Ms. D, a former Room in the Inn volunteer, prefers to give. She was overwhelmed by the positive impact Westminster’s services, from unclogging drains to repairing storm windows to installing a ramp.

Ms. D was very complimentary of Westminster Home Connection staff – especially Don’s persistence in solving some of her long-term plumbing issues. She couldn’t believe his attention to detail throughout the whole house, and she knows a thing or 2 about homes, as the contractor of her own home. After her property burnt down in 2001, Ms. D. redesigned her home, updating the layout to her preferences. She is persistently positive and creative about every obstacle thrown her way, and her optimism shows through in her praise. Ms. D thought of our services and Don’s commitment as an answered prayer. She used to ask God, “Keep me safe. Allow me to stay here.” It has been a blessing to make this possible for her.