Respite Problems Again

Respite has become a joke, a farce, and an absurdity around here. Sometimes I think the universe has something against me—or maybe it’s just the state of Colorado. It has been two weeks since we were supposed to receive respite care. There has been cancelation after cancelation. So today, I thought for sure the aide would be out. The agency said she would. But why should I ever presume to be so optimistic? Twenty minutes past the time of her arrival, I called the agency. Apparently, she had forgotten to come. At 9:00am, they said she was on her way. However, she never showed up. Now, I ask, is this the type of person I want to care for my son? If she cannot remember a simple appointment time, how is she supposed to provide quality care for Zane? I was supposed to have respite again this coming Wednesday, but now I am in the position where I have to train new people again. Aaaagh! I already trained two people who have never come out to give me a reprieve.

My friends and I have noticed that there seems to be a lackadaisical approach to life in the Durango area: appointments are suggestions, calling people back is optional, medical care is iffy (with the exception of the boys’ pediatrician)—that sort of thing. I am not used to this do-what-you-want attitude that I find in this area. I certainly didn’t grow up with it in the Midwest and didn’t experience it all the years I lived in Phoenix.

If I wasn’t so desperate to receive free time so that I can work my at-home jobs, then I would cancel respite with this agency altogether. Right now, it is more hassle than help.