Stories from Caregivers: Diana from OHIO
OH
Diana
FROM OHIO
Below is a tribute I wrote in honor of my father-in-law, Robert C. Bosse, as he was caregiver for his belowed wife, Alma. My mother-in-law struggled with and event succumbed to Parkinson's disease and during that time his dedication, strength and love was incredible. He remains my hero to this day. The Greatest Generation, Part II There is a brave soldier with more battle experience than most of us will ever encounter. This particular member of the Greatest Generation may have served in World War II, but his toughest battle is being fought much later in life on American soil. It is a long, uphill struggle, served diligently and without complaint, despite the fact he knows this war can not be won. Yet day after day, year after year the commitment remains. In the service he was trained "To leave no man behind"�. Once home he vowed, "In sickness and in health "˜til death do us part"�. Both promises have been tested, but always prevail. There is little glory in his struggle, only occasional glimpses of hope. This time the enemy is not Hitler, but an adversary just as powerful and persistent. Our soldier will bear witness to the horrors of devastation, not of a country he loves, but of the woman he has loved for decades. As the disease invades like a relentless enemy, he digs trenches to protect his fallen comrade. Once again this man of honor will lay down his life for others. Privately he will shed tears, but to family and friends portray a stoic front. He will deny the fear that grips his heart as the foe draws near. There is no alternative. Each night he stands watchful guard, listening attentively for cries of help in the dark. Every dawn brings new challenges. What mine will be tripped today? Following the somber tour of duty, this veteran will receive no parade, no medals, and no bronze statue for his courageous efforts. Despite his honorable discharge with deep wounds that will never heal there will be no purple heart. Still he fights this battle tooth and nail with all his heart, because, in the end, it is his heart that is at stake. Like the many before him and the many after, this hero receives nothing more than our respect for a job well done. I salute The Few The Proud The Caregiver
