05/28/2026
To my East Nissouri Union Church family I would like to say thank you
I’ve been thinking a lot tonight about this past week, how much has happened, and how quickly life can change.
But honestly, if I trace this journey back properly, it didn’t begin this week. It began months ago.
Since December, when Robert’s health concerns first started becoming more serious, life has slowly changed shape around us. There has been the constant listening during the night, sleeping with one ear open, always aware of every movement and sound. There has been the meal preparation, the endless changes in diet, the medications, the appointments, the watching, the worrying, the adapting, and the quiet exhaustion that builds so gradually you almost stop noticing it.
Over these months, I rarely left Robert alone for very long except when absolutely necessary. Caregiving slowly became part of every hour of every day.
And then came this week.
When Robert was admitted to the hospital, I had already gone through weeks of very little real rest. Physically and emotionally, I was running on empty. Because of my own mobility limitations, navigating a large hospital is not simple for me, and during much of those first days Robert was away for testing and procedures anyway.
But something I have been reflecting on deeply is this:
There are many ways to care for someone.
Sometimes caregiving means sitting at a bedside. But sometimes it means answering every phone call, listening, coordinating communication, advocating from home, writing letters, calming fears, updating loved ones, praying continuously, and simply staying emotionally present through every moment.
Families and loved ones often measure care differently. Some people naturally equate love with physical bedside presence. Others understand care through constant emotional connection, communication, support, advocacy, and endurance. Neither comes from lack of love. We simply carry care differently.
Robert and I have been in constant contact throughout all of this. We have talked countless times every single day. After 31 years together, we know each other’s hearts very well.
And through all of this, one of the greatest blessings of my life has become even more clear to me: the incredible love and support of my church family at East Nissouri Union Church.
I honestly do not know how I would have walked through these months without them.
The prayers, messages, meals, encouragement, understanding, patience, and practical help have carried me more than people probably realize. Some of you recognized before I did just how exhausted and vulnerable I had become. You stepped in quietly with love, wisdom, compassion, and support exactly when I needed it most.
You have cared not only for Robert, but for me too.
And I need you to know that I see that. I feel it deeply.
In a world that can sometimes feel harsh and divided, the love that has surrounded us has been living proof to me that Christ is real. I have seen Him reflected in your kindness, your faithfulness, your generosity, your prayers, and your willingness to simply walk beside us.
Thank you for loving us so well.
With all my heart,
Gail
