During the past five months, my 64-year-old mother has been admitted to the hospital four times. As her primary caregiver, I’ve taken on the challenges of handling emergency calls and advocating for her treatment, all while trying to keep my own life on track.
I also have an 11-year-old son adjusting to middle school, and I work full-time as a civil servant in a major city. On top of this, I’m pursuing my master’s degree in clinical psychology at Columbia University Teachers College, focusing on the integration of spirituality, mind, and body. To add to my challenges, I’m navigating a divorce.
The emotional toll has been overwhelming. There have been moments when my mother needed support for the mental, emotional, and logistical aspects of her illness, while I tried to maintain stability for myself and my son.
Though I’m graduating this semester, the skills I’ve gained from my studies are already proving invaluable. As a member of the “sandwich generation,” balancing care for my aging parent and child while advancing my own career has been challenging. My coursework has equipped me with tools like deep listening, emotional intelligence, and empathetic understanding, which have been essential during this turbulent time.
Advocating for my son remains a top priority, regardless of other demands on my time. Recently, he has shown signs of trouble focusing, disrupting his learning process. I’m working on getting him evaluated for resources, which requires persistent advocacy.
My studies in psychology have illuminated the importance of community support in healing; it’s crucial to seek help for ourselves and those we care about.
In recent hospital visits, I’ve learned that reminding medical staff about fundamental aspects of my mother’s medical history often drains her emotionally. This basic information is vital for her treatment needs, and my education has empowered me to advocate effectively in these situations.
I’m continuously learning, but I already feel empowered by the skills I’ve acquired. These include deep listening, emotional intelligence, and empathetic understanding, which I utilize during ER visits with my mother and in supporting my son through tough weeks at school.
I’ve discovered that healing takes place where the body, mind, and spirit connect, and this understanding has transformed the way I advocate for my loved ones.
These past few months have seen my time primarily divided between hospital visits and classes. The rest is spent working or helping my son with homework, corresponding with school staff, preparing for doctor’s appointments, or waiting for the next emergency call. Amid the chaos, I find purpose.
I now realize that my education is not just a future tool but a vital part of my everyday life, helping me maintain focus and hope during overwhelming pressure. Resilience reveals itself through daily progress, as we nurture hope and overcome challenges with each small achievement. I strive to believe in a future with more ease.