Mechanisms for Life

Hello,

We are heavy into our clinical work at the sub-acute care center, and I am learning new strategies for providing care everyday.

I even learned how to operate a mechanical lift, with a partner's assistance, which can haul a person, who cannot ambulate or assist in a transfer, out of bed and onto a stretcher, or into a chair.  As a non mechanically-inclined person, or so I have always believed, I was fascinated at the strength, albeit tenuous, operation of this mechanical wonder.  I marveled at the inventors and engineers who created this device.  It reminds me of the type of invention that my grandson Eric, who is a novice builder and inventor at 10 years old, would appreciate.  God gives people different gifts and talents for sure.

I also was thankful to God today for the gift of creating a small measure of independence in the lives of the people who use this mechanical lift.  The stretcher turned into a bath vehicle for a refreshing shower, while the chair was a special lounging "change of pace", also relieving pressure on body parts that had lain still throughout the night.

I believe that this powerful machine, being driven by me, an inexperienced operator, and hoisting the full weight of a dependent being, delivered an exciting message about overcoming obstacles; we must rely on each other to go over, under, around, and through our problems, and our perceived notions of futility. 

I felt like I was loading and unloading at the docks, except that this adventure involved lifting and safely depositing precious human cargo, with minds, thoughts, beliefs, and feelings, just like you and I have....Maybe I'll sign up as a Longshore-woman.  That will really be a new transition for me!

'Til next time,
Stephanie