Support Systems

I like to start my articles with a definition or the meaning of a word or phrase I use. So, here’s the definition for my title phrase: “A support system refers to a network of people or resources that provide an individual with practical or emotional assistance, encouragement, and guidance during challenging times. This network can include family, friends, mentors, or even professionals like therapists or counselors”

- Robyn Yerian

That definition is just what I wanted; it explains fully the support system I mean to write about today. RSS

Recently, I was indisposed, certainly not with a dire illness like chickungunya that was raging in these areas in Colombo a while ago. It was a leg trouble and that circumscribed my movements severely. It was during those weeks that I experienced fully the unstinting care and genuine affection I received from various strata of those within my circle.

First rung supporters

First were the employees — my ever faithful Karuna and extra helpers I got continuously. Karuna is now oldish and I am very considerate of this fact. So I get helpers for me and thus for her. The dame who was waiting to come here fractured a bone in her forearm. Thus, kaput for two to three months. A niece in Kandy sent me a young girl she was paying to undergo a course of studies to qualify as a nurse-aide. She was just 20 and very sweet but good at the help she gave me. She had to return home to continue her restarted course. A friend got me another buxom dame who was also competent. But she too had to go, so I got a person I had had previously employed on many an occasion. She was brisk as quicksilver. Money she needed for her family of daughter and son who was sitting his AL exam at the end of this year.

Though varied in age and even capability, they were all committed and caring. Never a frown or a murmur when disturbed by my calling them while they were in the midst of watching a TV drama.