80 ~ Until She Gets Adjusted

By Kay Heitsch

I wasn't sure how long "Until she gets adjusted" would last. I was willing to help out as long as I was needed.

I went over every day. I'd usually arrive at the memory center at 9:00 in the morning and stay until 8:00 or 9:00 at night.

I gave "L" her showers and did her laundry. I really didn't have to, but it was easier on everyone, and I liked to stay busy.

It's interesting working in a facility where you are a guest. I felt blessed that almost everyone was nice and friendly.

"L" did not like to stay still. She wanted to be on the go. When I came in, I'd ask her where she wanted to go. She'd say, and I'd help her in her wheelchair, and we would walk all around the building.

My average daily pedometer steps were around 16,000.

"L" had a habit of repeating the exact words over and over. It was very challenging listening to this at times.

I began to pray about how I could stop "L" from constantly repeating these phrases.

One day, a thought came to me. "L" seemed to like music. So I decided to sing to see what would happen.

Lo and behold, "L" started to join in singing. However, not with the words I was singing, but with her repeated phrases. This was a step in the right direction.

It wasn't long before several other residents joined us in walking around the facility and singing. After a while, "L" started to sing the words we were all singing. Praise the Lord!

We sang hymns for the most part. They loved Amazing Grace and Jesus Loves Me. These were the two favorites.

I began searching for old-fashioned cassette tapes of songs that these residents would remember. I tied a cassette player to the back of the wheelchair. Now we had music to accompany our singing.

I didn't talk to anyone about what I was dealing with regarding the trial. I was wondering if they might be questioned by the detectives about me.

I was adjusting to the memory care center and the people. My fear was gone for the most part. I won't lie. There were some challenging moments at times.

I wasn't sure how long I would be here. Only God knew.

Remember how I led you on this long journey. Deuteronomy 8:2