Mary and Clay enjoyed a few precious days of good weather, good food, and a change of scenery to recharge over Valentine’s Day, 2020.
Mary
Caregiver for sister
Mary was the primary caregiver for her sister Evelyn, who had cancer. The two shared an incredible bond and hoped to visit the Little Purple House together. Sadly, Evelyn’s cancer took a turn for the worse before they were able to make the trip. She passed at the end of 2019. Heartbroken and grieving, Mary and her husband, Clay were able to enjoy a respite getaway together over Valentine’s Day.
LPH: What did this trip mean to you?
I am just so overwhelmed with gratitude to Kate and Manfred for their generous hearts. They see a great need and are fulfilling it. People don't know what it is like to go through cancer or any terminal illness and remain the same. To get away from the scenery that reminds me, and the people who want to help me but don't know how is so refreshing. The house was so awesome, old, and comfy. I totally enjoyed the time away.
“It was like breathing out again.”
LPH: Why is it important for caregivers to have a getaway?
Caregivers don't know what they need. They are so consumed with caring for the patient that they neglect themselves. Thankfully for me, I have a supportive husband who loved me and my sister through the last 7 years of our journey. But even with that, getting away from it all means so much. It was just wonderful. It was like breathing out again. I just can't tell you how much that meant to me. The Little Purple House was just like a hideaway for me. I could go and hide away from the outside world and be content with me. It was so therapeutic!! I love you guys for it. So very much!! Believe me, only caregivers know what I am talking about.
LPH: How do you feel after having some time to recharge?
I am much better since being back home. I saw my doctor shortly after we returned and she agreed I had a much better outlook on things and was glad to see that. I know it came from just getting away from things, places and mostly, people.
I know people mean well and want me to be doing good, but it has hurt so much to talk about it and answer that question everyone asks, "How are you doing?" They want to hear "I'm fine, great, wonderful, etc." and I always want to say those things, but I don't feel that way. Being away helped me to feel better. I am still not great, wonderful and fine, but I am better.
I am just so happy that there are still wonderful, loving people in the world who want to help each other, because we need each other in this life. What you have given me was like a DREAM. I can't tell you how impressed and special I feel. Thank you and Lisa Lundeen, Angels from God. You can’t know unless you’ve been where we have been what peace it brings to get away from the scenery and people. It’s like taking medicine for pain!! I’ll never forget this experience and I’ll continue to pray for you and the Cottage!!! Thank you so so much!!!
