Yesterday, I was a guest on a local radio program called “On Call with Wendy Wiese,”which is part of the Relevant Radio network. The topic for the show was “loving care for the elderly today.” At first I felt a little uneasy but considering that October is Respect Life Month, I realized that it was a great opportunity to expand the “pro-life” discussion to include the elderly and to explain our understanding of the value of life from conception to when a soul is called home to God.
During the hour-long live broadcast, I was interviewed and answered questions from the listeners. We discussed Jeanne Jugan’s life and the challenges that the elderly faced during her time. I was asked about our charism which gave me a terrific opportunity to speak about St. Jeanne Jugan and her specific charism which we cherish and try to live daily.
We addressed some of the challenges that face seniors today – folks living longer require more assistance as they age. Some of the calls were of a personal nature and very specific. I was glad to offer reassurance to the caregivers who called in to share their challenges as they face society’s shifting concern for the elderly.
As Little Sisters, I explained that it is our goal to make sure that our Residents really understand that they are a blessing and not a burden. We make sure that our Residents feel like our family, like our brothers and sisters. Not only do we want them to be treated with respect and dignity but we also want them to feel cherished and loved. After all, that is the heritage left to us, by St. Jeanne Jugan. We always try hard to make our Residents happy.
Respect Life Month is a good time to examine our commitment to be strong in our stand that life is precious, given to us by God and only He has a right to take it back.
CLICK HERE to hear archived show.
Sister Mildred Speaks on Relevant Radio