For family members and professional, pastoral, and voluntary caregivers, Dr. Thrash's unique book offers firsthand, prayerful insights into the delicate and demanding ministry of caring for the sick and dying. The author takes you to the bedside of her patients. You feel their fear, anger, uncertainty, sadness, hope, and loneliness---as well as their acceptance, joy and peace. "Through all this maze the caregiver must walk with eyes, ears, heart, and spirit open." But Dr. Thrash does not leave you in this maze.
Sprinkled throughout this book is sound advice on understanding patients and what they are trying to tell us. Topics covered include: why patients fear death, coping with attention-seeking patients, allowing patients to "own" their feelings, walking with grieving families, assisting families in saying their good-byes, as well as symbols of faith, laughter, prayer, and a thankful heart. "By taking time to understand our role as caregivers," the author writes, "we will become beacons of light...and be God's true representatives to those we visit."
Dr. Sara Arline Thrash is an internationally known lecturer, author, and consultant in the areas of family ministry, grief management, death and dying, spiritual integration, and more. She received her Ph.D. in the guidance and counseling of exceptional children. Her post-doctoral training in chaplaincy and family ministry took place in Holland and the U.S., where she received certification in clinical pastoral education.
(Purchase of this book helps you qualify for the free shipping option if it is being offered at the time of your order.)