Today marks day 3 that my kindergartener is home sick from school. While I love having my child around, it’s still been a rough few days. With my husband in a different country and only one relative living within close proximity (and not in a position to help), I’m exhausted. I honestly would love to be in a position where I can tag team in & out so I can get a break, or have someone drop off a meal (or even come in and do dishes). Unfortunately, since the vast majority of my relatives don’t live close by (nor do any of my friends, catching a break to take a break isn’t proving to be easy. I’ve been trying to sneak in a break where possible, but it’s difficult to do when you have a sick child and their needs come first.
There have been times in the past where I’ve vented out loud about being exhausted after caring for a sick child. Individuals that are supposed to be in our ‘inner circle’ have turned around and said ‘It’s a part of being a parent’ – which is true, to a point. Children are going to get sick and you’re going to be exhausted as a result of helping them get better. HOWEVER, if you’re caring for them and NO ONE is around to help take care of you, exhaustion and burn out become a problem. One person can only do so much.
If you see someone with a sick child, take a moment and ask what they may need. Or, even better, drop off a meal. Sometimes, it’s the littlest things that can make the biggest difference. Not all heroes wear capes