December 2009
As it turned out, Gracie's aide's last day was Tuesday. She and I had a good talk that afternoon, including some barely held back tears. Her decision was not easy, I know, and she is doing what she needs to do at this time in her life. We only wish her the best in her next endeavor. In all, I think we both got the closure that each of us needed. And, while it's closure of a chapter at school for Gracie, Betty Lou will always have a special place in our hearts and, hopefully, our lives.
Gracie started school here in April 2009. Since then, Betty Lou has taken the utmost care of her, working as her "do-it-all" aide, serving as both a health aide and instructional aide. Needless to say, there isn't anyone on that campus who knows Gracie as well (and that fact makes me more than nervous). I can only hope that whomever takes her place (as we still haven't been properly informed of the details... a big problem for me, but not one for this post) will be able to fill Betty Lou's conscientious shoes, keep an open line of communication with me and the team and learn to read Gracie's cues quickly (no small feat). And, I can only dream that they will love each other as much as Gracie and Betty Lou do.
4 comments:
I'm glad you found an un-un?? :) What a gift. I hope you find another jem to fill the aide's shoes.
I am so sorry you have to lose such a wonderful person in Gracie's life. I hope they find someone soon and she or he is just as great.
I also love the video, I wish I had sound tho my computer doesnt want to let he hear anything anymore.
I am very fortunate to have met and observed Betty Lou during Gracie's holiday program. Their love for each other was mesmerizin. I am relieved that you had time to talk with Betty Lou and bring a sense of closure. Every body part is triple-crossed that Gracie's next aide is someone she grows to love (quickly) and is able to fill Betty Lou's very, very big shoes. My heart tells me that regardless of Gracie's next aide's abilities or your comfort with him/her, he/she will immediately fall head-over-heels in love with the beautiful and inspiring Miss Gracie.
I'm sorry Gracie has lost Betty Lou as her aide. It's so hard to find someone who "gets" our kids--someone who makes us feel comfortable that our child is in good hands when we drive away from school every morning. Katie's interpreter is that person for her, and I know we'll be devastated if and when we lose her. I hope the school gets someone in place who can fill Betty Lou's shoes quickly.
Post a Comment