A Man is Not an Island

Today was the facility's Christmas party for families and residents. I attempted to go, but when the music started my migraine began to let me know it was not down for a Christmas sing a long. But while I was there waiting for it to start I noticed a huge divide in the patients. It is something I have noticed here before. It is not a divide based on ability, cognitive function, or behaviors. Rather it is a divide based on who has family that visits and who does not. Today the results were about half and half. The families that came were loving and caring and excited to visit. Those without visitors sat quietly at tables with others without visitors, looking around at all the new people in the room. I can't say if they were all sad, but it broke my heart. I cannot receive a visit from my Mom this holiday season, but I am only here temporarily. For those who live here or are here for a long time it must get lonely. I wonder if they feel forgotten, lost. Even if they cannot communicate, who knows how much they can hear and feel and know, My friends have showered me with love and support and that has made a huge difference.