The Drop
During their difficult days, let's drop what family caregivers need right where they are.
I watch WWII movies and documentaries.
Band of Brothers is a favorite; I’ve watched it probably 20 times. I watched it again this week and watched each episode, including an episode I typically skip: "Bastogne" which features the story of Eugene Roe, Easy Company’s medic. It’s a very sad episode and difficult to watch because of so much suffering as the company engages in the Battle of the Bulge.
During the episode, we do see what hope looks like for those in the midst of war and surrounded by battles: A drop. Soldiers, civilians and medical personnel look to the sky to see C-47’s flying overheating and dropping duffel bags of supplies. We see relief, gratitude, renewed strength. We see battle-weary individuals receive more than supplies. They know others are doing whatever they can to support, nourish and help them. They are remembered, they are important, their well-being is critical.
It made me think of the long, difficult days we endure during a caregiving experience. We all deserve a drop when we fear we’ve just run out. We need to be able to look to the sky and hold out our arms to receive what we need. Our hearts and our spirit need to be replenished and restocked.
What would you include in a drop that family caregivers receive on a tough day?