Vernon is out of isolation again, which means he is free to leave his room if someone is kind enough to move him. He also has a room-mate for the first time in 6 months. We had brought the record player and some of Vernon’s old albums, but we didn’t want to overwhelm this new patient on his first day, so we wheeled Vernon to the community room, looking for some space that we could make some noise. Though the kids were into the music, Vernon seemed more interested in convincing us to take him elsewhere…anywhere! The hard thing about his growing awareness is that he knows the facility is not his home. It must feel like a bad dream at times, in which he can’t convince anyone to help him escape.
We couldn’t play records for too long because the weekly Bingo players started lining up about a half hour before the 2:00 game was due to start. It’s apparently the big Sunday event.
Vernon wasn’t ready to socialize or get involved but the kids were up for the game. So we parked Vernon next to the table and took our seats.
Justine had never played before but she ended up winning four rounds. Beginners Luck RULES! There were some other young folks there: a couple of grandchildren (and a son) keeping patients company at the game table. It felt like a surreal family reunion, where you didn’t actually know anyone else, but all ages were welcome and accepted.
Sometimes I well with tears because I think about Vernon’s plight and how the future seems so uncertain. Other times, I well up thinking about the kids and how amazing they are. They were so open to trying something new and taking part socially in the care home, I am truly bursting with pride. These moments are the ones that make me realize that all will be okay. They are learning to be citizens of the world, unafraid of uncomfortable social boundaries, realizing early that life is life, even if it includes sickness, aging, and discomfort. They are still finding ways to embrace what they have in front of them, and even find the fun in in when it’s there. I have a feeling if they know we will be visiting Vernon on Sunday afternoon, they’ll want to make sure the timing aligns with the Bingo game.
I had several comments from some of the other patients and patient’s visitors about Vernon…how they have noticed he’s talking and interacting more than before. One person came up to me and said: “Are you Vanessa?” I explained that I wasn’t but that its what Vernon usually calls me these days. She said that he had pulled her aside and said: “I like waking up to Vanessa. She makes me happy when she is here.” Ok, Vanessa, if you are reading this: I know its a bit strange. But Even though the names are mixed up, it was so sweet to get this feedback.
Speaking of names, Vernon got one right consistently today. Justine. He usually calls her Jemima or something similar. But he nailed it this afternoon…and could barely take his eyes off her. This is another reason I’m thankful he is out of isolation. She didn’t seem to mind his extra attention one bit.
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Of course he couldn’t keep his eyes off her! She is just as cute as can be… And handsome Maki. I was all teary -happy tears looking at your photos. You have allot to be proud of in your family. It’s so GOOD to hear Vernon is out of Isolation! We are praying for big healthy moves forward! Love you! xo
Allison,
So glad that Vernon is out of isolation. Make you feel happy with the Maki and Justine there with you and then they are playing Bingo with friends of their Dad. The Bingo cards are big for the elderly and for the young like Justine. That is neat for the children. We are keep praying for Vern and the all of you who have a hand in his recovery as he comes along.
Love,
Becky
That made my heart happy this morning! Praying for continued growth in Vernon and continued strength for you and the kids. Love you friend !
I LOVE this share… Especially YOUR insight -” These moments are the ones that make me realize that all will be okay. They are learning to be citizens of the world, unafraid of uncomfortable social boundaries, realizing early that life is life, even if it includes sickness, aging, and discomfort. They are still finding ways to embrace what they have in front of them, and even find the fun in in when it’s there.” –
A very Wise man walked many years ago and suggested we Pray “Give us this day”……I Believe young ones – clearly own that the key to life is to Live “One Day at a time” – it is just Wonderful when we do!! No doubt these children – your children have, and continue to learn much from you – Praying just for Today your HOPE will be much!! I so Appreciate your transparency, Love for life and your family – Prayerfully –
Just so very sweet! Even in the midst of the struggles, wonderful morsels of joy, love, and connection with others. 😀
Thank you, Allison.
This is so lovely to see! Thank you for sharing. You are right to be proud of the children. Your photography is beautiful as always. Big hug
Thank you for sharing your Sunday afternoon! Yes, you are very right to be proud of wonderful Justine and Maki. Great to hear Vern is out of isolation – and looks like he reckoginsed the Teardrop Explodes! Lots of love xx
Precious all around!!!!!
so, so pleased Vern is out of isolation (such a shame mum and dad couldn`t be there to enjoy the experience..i guess they were supposed to be there when he needed them most)
well Vern, i wish i could be with you when you wake up, sat next to your bed … Allison i am guessing that with mum and dad being there Vern has got confused and thought i would be there too..mum said they talked to Vern about the family and names every day..just one step away now Allison to getting your name right!!!(he will get there)
what a joy to see these photographs ..such precious moments to share, that is what Sundays should be about …. FAMILY time xx
lets hope Vern will get stronger and stronger over the coming months and can then be at home enjoying the family Sundays xx
xx love and hugs to you all xx