The magic cure of simple care

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

- CHIT U. JUAN

I have seen the wonders of care or "alaga" as we know it in the vernacular. When a friend was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease then had a bout with COVID and had a few strokes, one may think it is the end. But continuous care, therapy and diet made a big difference. Not to sound like a medical journal but a shout-out to relatives who think they have reached the end of a patient's journey, care is the most important ingredient in the healing journey.

One can have all the money in the world, but if care is left to outsiders, caregivers and other non-related persons, healing may take a longer time. I have seen this happen in at least two cases very close to me. Emily (not her real name) stayed by her older sister Gwen (not her real name) everyday along with caregivers, physical therapists and a whole slew of doctors—neurologists, nutritionists and lately even a geriatric psychiatrist. Emily checked on what each specialist had to say and asked that they explain to her in layman's terms the condition of Gwen and if progress was being made, day after day, year after year. It has now been around four years and from a non-communicating status of Gwen, she now can sing, pray and communicate her needs to Emily and the caregivers.

Annie, another friend, has watched over her sister Elena who also has Parkinson's and takes time to bring her along to out-of-town trips, to see new places and to get her to see other people and attend social functions.