Once, my brother rang me up and told me he and his family were off on holiday. As he didnt want to leave our mum on her own, he asked if Id take her in for a bit. I didnt mind at allafter all, my brother and his lot had been looking after Mum for ages. Mum has always been a bit of a handful and could stir up a row over absolutely nothing.
I only had the one bed at my place, so I decided to let Mum have it, and I would sleep on the floor. At first, everything seemed alright. But when it was time to head to bed, Mum complained she was uncomfortable and that something was bothering her back. Thing is, Id only recently bought that bed and there shouldnt have been anything wrong with it. Still, I hunted around for an extra duvet to try and make her more comfortable. I really thought that might do the trick, but sadly it didnt. She just couldnt settle.
The next morning, I woke up, made myself a strong cup of tea, and got ready for work. Just as I was about to leave, Mum asked:
Where are you going? Who will give me my injection?
I was completely thrown, as no one had mentioned anything about injections. I phoned my brother straight away and found out that Mum was perfectly capable of giving herself her medication. Relieved, I headed off to workalready running an hour and a half late.
In the evening, I got home to find Mum sprawled on the sofa, struggling to breathe. It took quite a bit to help her sit up. Turned out, shed eaten all sorts of things she wasnt supposed to, and that’s why she felt so unwell.
You dont care about me. Thats why Im like this. Youd rather see me dead, wouldnt you? said Mum.
I cant just give up my job to look after you, I replied.
Truth be told, Mum can still do a lot for herself. A few years back, my brother sold Mums flat and used the money to buy himself a three-bedroom house, so he moved Mum in with him. Thats how he ended up looking after her. Ive absolutely no clue how to deal with Mums whims. She acts up just like a child, only it doesnt bring any joy like a childs antics do. If Im honest, she can be downright difficult.
After this whole experience, I realised just how important it is to set boundaries, even with family. Sometimes, you have to look after yourself first.
