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Dear Friends

Senior Driver 

Sometimes Even a Prince
Has to Give Up the Car Keys

Week of February 11, 2019
Prayer Requests

Dear Friends,

No one lives happily ever after, not even a prince. As with so many seniors, the day may come when His Highness has to give up the car keys. Or -- as the British news recenty put it referring to 97-year-old Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburg and husband of Queen Elizabeth II -- "surrender his license."

Not easy for him. And, closer to home, not easy for you and the loved one in your care when that decision has to be made.

For the prince, the "time came" after an accident for which he was responible. For you, that's something you so very much want to avoid happening.

Here in America...

We're a nation of drivers. We define ourselves by the automobiles we choose. I'm wealthy; I can afford the latest luxury sedan. I'm concerned about the environment, I tool around in a gas/electric hybrid. I'm adventurous; I load up my SUV and head for the hills. And on and on.

In the United States, getting one's driver's license is more than obtaining the state's permission to operate a motor vehicle. Every sixteen-year-old knows it's a rite a passage. A giant step on the road to adulthood. A key to independence. A time to celebrate.

In the same way, losing one's driver's license, losing access to one's own car, is more than forfeiting the state's or the family's permission to drive. Every elderly driver knows that this too, is a rite of passage. It's seen as a giant step on the road to one's final days. A tremendous loss of independence. A time to mourn.

That how our Topic/Flier "Helping Your Parent Give Up the Car Keys" begins. It includes a list of suggestions for making that challenge less stressful. You can read more here or, in a printable format, here.

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World Day of the Sick

Today, Monday, February 11 (the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes), is the 27th World Day of the Sick. In his message marking the occasion, Pope Francis wrote:

"Caring for the sick requires professionalism, tenderness, straightforward and simple gestures freely given, like a caress that makes others feel loved."

While the annual observance is aimed more at healthcare professionals, its main focus on the sick themselves can be helpful for all care-receivers and their family caregivers.

- - -

And, for February 14:

Happy Valentine's Day

As always, you remain in my prayers.

--Bill

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This week we're so pleased to welcome Brian H. of Texas and Eileen L. of Georgia as the newest members of the Friends of St. John the Caregiver. Please keep them and their intentions in your prayers. They have promised to pray for you and yours.

And again this week we cordially invite you to join the Friends of St. John the Caregiver! (FSJC's programs include YourAgingParent.com and CatholicCaregivers.com.) You can find out more about becoming a member here.

No meetings, no dues. All we ask is that you pray for caregivers and those receiving care. Our members include caregivers, care-receivers, and those who support both (including quite a few former caregivers).

You can:

sign up on-line here

or call us toll-free at 1-800-392-JOHN (5646)

or print and mail an application form.

Past "Dear Friends" Letters