Dear Scooting Lady
Dear Scooting Lady,
You don't know me and I don't know you, but you made a sad day a little brighter.
Tuesday morning I got the call that my grandma took a turn for the worst. My grandma, probably much like you, has Alzheimer's. I knew this day was coming, but it still stung to hear that the countdown had begun. Since Tuesday, we've spent hours in her room watching her slowly fade, raced down after two false alarms, and have been consumed by the stress and tears that weigh you down when this time comes. Friday came and I was done. I was frayed and angry and sad and tired and I really just wanted to see my beautiful grandma asleep and home with Jesus.
And then you showed up.
You wonderful lady, you.
You stuck your head out the door, looked for the nurses, and when you didn't see them, you proceeded to scoot yourself on your back down the hall. And to be honest, I loved it. You made me smile and laugh so hard. I know that Alzheimer's has taken so much from you, but today it didn't take your sass. Today, you gave a little back. And I needed that laugh then.
Then grandma passed. That was hard. And as we were sitting in the hall waiting for the nurses to clean my grandma's frail body, I learned why you scooted yourself down the hall.
You rebel, you.
You're not allowed to stand. For whatever reason, you need to stay in your wheelchair. And yesterday, you were trying to stand up and the nurse had to repeatedly remind you to stay sitting or you'd hurt yourself. So today, in your act of rebellion, you scooted yourself down the hall to where you wanted to go. You followed the rules, but you did what you wanted to do. When I heard that, I laughed even harder than before. Right in the middle of my grief, your rebellious act brought joy to my life.
Thank you, scooting lady. I know this time is hard and confusing for you. This disease has stolen almost everything from you. But today, it didn't steal your strong will and determination. And for that, I'm so glad. I hope you bring joy to much more people in the future as you have brought joy to me.
Keep scooting, lady, keep scooting.
