Monday, February 4, 2008

unspeakable difficulty

"Mommy you have to listen to Amanda. You have to do exactly as she says. We're all trying to help you here. We are a team. Amanda is a trained professional. Trust me. Trust her." I squatted next to the bed on the right as Janet, Mrs. Summer's daughter, squatted on her left and pleaded with her. "I want to take you home Mommy. You have to try. It's like I tell my children, you don't have to be the best, but you have to try. You can do this." Mrs. Summer's lips curled up on the left side into a smile. The right side of her face remained drooped, a result of the stroke that also left her speechless, literally. So I'm unable to ask her why after four days of working together, she's suddenly pulling away from me. Shaking off my hand, turning her eyes away, and attempted to utter some words of rejection. Is it frustration, confusion, anger, fear? Most likely a combination, but without the ability to verbally express herself we are left with a great distance of misunderstanding between us.

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

I can imagine the hands of that sweet lady; her frustration and her need for touch. You will reach out to her and so many others and bring them back to the world.

Lauren said...

sounds just like the movie. and what a frustrating position to be in. but you ahamm, can do it. be the rapport whore i know you are! xo

Mary said...

Well Amanda! Good to have gotten "caught up" with you! Mrs. S is a "summer" in her coloring/clothing attire right;) (a little HIPAA joke there?)

You make me proud every day!
Happy Valentines Day!

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