u/confessthenthrowout

I have a resident who hates being social and really just gets close with her roommates, most of them anyway. She doesnt get along with white nurses or aides too well (shes said its something about her past with them), and ive been very supportive and empathetic to her feelings. I didnt think she’d noticed, because sometimes shes a little aggressive with me but still talks to me a little more than others.

I brought her some shoes, because she complains about foot pains and freezing toes, and her son hasnt given her any. They were cheap, crock-like shoes, but I thought they would be better than nothing. She cried, and asked what to do in return. I told her “nothing, I just wanted to get some for you because I care about you and you deserve them.” Shes worn them every single day since, and gloats about them. I love it.

She does nothing all day, but lay and observe people. Sometimes she talks to herself, or fusses at the air. I went on a week vacation and just got back today. She was fussing at anyone who would walk by, and I stopped to listen to her complaints. She stopped fussing immediately, and started crying.

“My baby!!! Where have you been??? Oh my jesus, whwre did you leave me??” She kept crying, and she hugged me. She never liked to be touched. I want to cry right now.

I never thought I meant much to these residents. I love them with my heart, and I didn’t realize how many people would notice my absence. IT pains me that I’m going to leave them in 2 months.