I had an interview with hospice today to be a volunteer. When I first called them they were a bit aprehensive as they have a policy of not taking volunteers who have lost their loved ones in less than a year. As most of you know, Helen passed away 6 weeks ago. Well I explained to her that I understood, however it is different when dealing with Alzheimer's. She agreed and said she would meet with me.

It went great. The woman was nice and funny and we had a good time. I will start training later this week. I have to go get a TB test and a physical before I can start working with them. I am just so excited about this. I will be in their inpatient hospice. It is the only one in the state.

As rough as the road has been for me and for all of us, I am still a caregiver. At least for now, it is all I really want to be. I believe that this new path in my life is Helen's gift to me. It's just good to be moving forward.

What an amazing step to take Lori! I know you will be a great asset to the facility, and will make a world of difference in the peoples' lives you will be touching.

YAY! I am so glad they understand about the grief with Alzheimer's. I think you are going to find this to be a rewarding experience and your experience taking care of Helen is going to be so valuable to the families of the people you care for.

I wish you success dear Lori, you have such a kind heart.

That's really good news Lori. I am very grateful as I know you wanted to do this.

YAYYYY!

What a blessing you will be giving and receiving!
Carol

Oh Lori

HOw wonderful for you and for the lucky patients!! You took such good care of Helen and now other people will benefit by your compassion and skills!!

My parents always taught me that God doesn't close a window unless he opens a door is so true!!

Ann

Your hospice group is darn lucky to get you! I'm sure you'll be a huge asset to the many families facing a difficult time. Good job, Lori.

Lori,
Thank God for people like you. After being a caregiver for so many years, I think that you are doing a wonderful thing. They are so fortunate to have you. You will be a wonderful hospice volunteer. If anyone will understand the patients and the caregivers, it will be you. It should be a prerequisite.

Is this for Alz. patients, or just general hospice?

Keep us posted on your training. I'm sure you will have some very good tips for us caregivers.

Love,
Jackie

Lori, You'll be a smashing success!
They are lucky to have you.
Best wishes and let us know how it goes.
Peace
Eileen

Wow! That is awesome Lori! The world really needs more people like you. More compassion, and kindness would make the world a sweeter place wouldn't it? I think all people should think about how they could be nice to at least one person every day when they wake up. Hard task I know, but what a nice thought.

Lori, this sounds like such a great fit for them--getting you--and for you-- getting a chance to continue doing something you shine in! Keep us posted.

Wow Lori, I so admire you. What a great fit.. I think they are very lucky to have you.

As for others that have lost their LO's recently and go into the field of caregiving for other's loved ones (regardless of their illnesses) My hat is off to you.

I don't see how you can do it. I do not regret for one second being the 24/7 caregiver to my BF's Mom, but unless it is one of my parents or my BF that needs me, I just don't know if I would have the strength to do this again.

Thank you all for your kind words. I really don't deserve them though. The fact is that I have been a caregiver for 6 years and I really feel a loss not doing it. So, I'm doing this because I need to not because I'm so giving.
Anyway first day of training over. Just films today. Not too exciting. The next two days will be more interesting.

My dear Lori, you do not give yourself enough credit. You are also one of my "mentors". You have done a great deal for others like Glo, and the other things you did. It's ones good fortune to know you, you are a blessing. Helen was lucky to have you as her friend. I am very excited for you and your new adventure with hospice. Best to you.