Photographs are capable of “capturing” THOUSANDS of recollections!! To me, it feels like this picture wants to tell me more! Yet, my memories from this photograph take place, when I am older. Keep reading! I think as this short story unfolds, my readers will grasp the “WHOLE PICTURE!” Wink, wink! 😉
This is my Aunt Lena! The little girl, of course, is me; at the tender age of 3. Mom shared with me, that I called her my Grandma Lena! In the early 1970’s, Mom was a licensed Cosmetologist. My mother would bring her to our home, to have her hair done. Then, of course, she and I would play in my room!
To my knowledge, this is the only photograph I have of her and I. Yet, our bond extends beyond this particular, captured moment! Mom also relayed to me, that Aunt Lena potty trained me. She fixed my lunches, and then would put me down for nap time. If I think about it for a little bit, I can visualize her helping me in the bathroom, and sitting at the kitchen table. I also recall her singing to me, before falling asleep in the afternoon. These are happy memories for me! I am thankful!
In 1986, I turned 16. My first job was at Lenore’s Nursing Home in Draper, Utah. I was trained as a Nurse’s Aide and I worked the 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. shift. One day, the RN introduced me to a new client. A lady that I would be responsible, in caring for!
Guess who?!? Yes! Aunt Lena!! I certainly was surprised! To admit, I was also a little nervous, because it NOW was my responsibility to give direct care to her, when it had been such a long time since I last saw her. Aunt Lena also had changed a lot! Physically and mentally.
Aunt Lena’s memory had deteriorated, from Alzheimer’s. She had no idea who I was. To me, it was a miracle that I now had the same opportunity to return ALL the WONDERFUL LOVE she gave to me, as a little girl!
Her room was small, with only one possession. This was because of the safety measures in place. It was a framed photograph of Lena and her siblings. There were many times, that she would “hold” the picture in her hands. I would point out, each brother and sister. She sometimes seemed as if to recognize; with a smile. One of her brothers, was my grandfather; John Amos Fenstermaker. My Dad’s Dad! This photo too, was comforting to me, in that these memories kept us connected!
I also learned much compassion while taking care of her, because some days, where VERY challenging!! Sometimes, she wouldn’t eat; while throwing her food at me, or spitting it out! Other days, she would become really aggressive, while biting me; because it was time for a bath. I was also responsible for making sure she exercised. I remember thinking to myself, “today is a good day to walk with her up and down the hall!” Then, without ANY warning Aunt Lena decided to sit down, in the hallway! As a Nurse’s Aide, I was trained to protect the client from falling. So, she literally SAT on top of me! Yes!! This certainly was one experience I will never forget, because Aunt Lena was not petite, as she was when I was little!
Oh, how I cherish this precious photograph! Although this disease changed Aunt Lena, there is NO regret! Not one!! Yes, Aunt Lena’s mind faded. NOW my turn had come, to care for her!! I feel that I am a stronger woman because of this experience! LOVE is a such a STRONG bond, no matter the frailties of the human mind!
