Appoximately two years ago my sister-in-law was moved to a long term care facility in Hamilton from Winnipeg. My other sister-in-law and I told our niece we would help with the visiting. Each of us visits once a week . She has fast developing dementia and Alzheimer’s which we see getting worse as time goes on.
My first few visits ended with a 10 to 15 minute cry in the car before I could drive home. This was not the person I had my dream vacation to Hawaii with 12 years ago . Occasionally she, with pictures, does recognize me and her in Hawaii but mostly she says she has never been to Hawaii.
When I received a copy of the poem, it helped me understand more, and even when we don’t talk God willing it has helped her pass the time. She usually is happy to see me when I arrive but never happy when I go to leave. As the poem suggests just holding her hand and sitting with her is what she wants. I know mostly I am just an old friend she has known for years, who brings her a diet pepsi.
I trust this poem helps others as it has me to understand what she needs and God will give me the strength to keep going as long as she needs me. I pray, should I someday have to go to a facility that God would send someone to sit with me.
Written by Ruth C. VP Member Development
Serving in His Strength” is a blog
published by the Member Development Committee of
Lutheran Women’s Missionary League–Canada, Inc.
Lutheranwomen.ca
2026