None of us is producing our own one man or woman show. We all have and need our “peeps”. Perhaps several times over the years, you find yourselves taking on this role. The friend driving to the hospital. The spouse making the meals and doling medication, the neighbor offering help, the son or daughter giving up their own work and family to rescue a parent. The sibling navigating terrain. The myriad manifestations of this is impacting many of you today. Sometimes several events at the same time. You are glad you are available but wonder if retirement has now found you with a new role in the healthcare industry! The dining out is now ordering in. The furnishing is now unfurnishing and packing up a loved one’s home. All of this too familiar? We pine for the days of commuting, careers, even raising a family. Nostalgia for the years of hard work.

New unplanned missions are not even on the horizen, they are here now. You are part of a new dynamic. Every “two-some” that traveled the hallway this week included a supportng actor. Many have their own disabilities that take a backseat to the new drama that emerged. My observations extend far beyond the center as many friends and family are stepping up. Jan walks gingerly with her daughter, who traveled from many states away to care, following the lung surgery. Patricia will fly to a new family just discovered to dig in and support those left behind by a loss. A son and his wife up-end careers and home to honor parents at a time of great need.

Is all of this just duty and responsibility? No. Your award, should you choose to accept, is satisfaction fulfilling a much needed need. We know that what originates in the heart is the most fulfilling and successful. Service and sacrifice enhance a life well lived. Always.

You are going to be that person to someone, perhaps many. Accept the role without complaint or misgivings and discover that your own life is profoundly more rich and meaningful. Many who worked in business have not participated in the service industry. This new designation is discombobulating at first. What I see time and again however, is how really good you are at this. You don’t need experience, you just need empathy and you have that in spades.

And so dear friends, know that you are the hero of the story. The side-kick who saves. Have confidence in the space and never doubt your value. You may not have sought this situation, but look at the amazing energy and wisdom you bring. On behalf of the academy of “professional” caregivers, allow me to acknowledge you, thank you and admire you. We cannot do our job without you. Well done.