Publisher's Synopsis
The Care Home: Reflections from the Frontline of Compassion and Resilience
In "The Care Home," author Rebecca Rijsdijk unveils the stark reality of life as a healthcare worker with an unflinching gaze into the heart-rending challenges and unexpected moments of grace within the world of care. This profound narrative journey is not just a collection of experiences; it's an intimate exploration of what it means to be at the frontline of human vulnerability and strength.
Inside these pages, you'll discover:
- Personal Accounts: Rijsdijk shares her poignant, often harrowing encounters with abuse, neglect, and misunderstanding, both in the UK and in her homeland of the Netherlands. From being labelled 'just the carer' to facing physical and emotional trials, her stories illuminate the oft-overlooked struggles of those who give their all to care for others.
- A Journey of Resilience: Despite the adversity, "The Care Home" is imbued with moments of profound resilience and joy. The author reflects on the deep-seated reasons that drew her to this career, the same reasons that keep many in the profession despite its trials.
- Universal Themes: This book delves into the universal themes of empathy, respect, and the intrinsic value of every individual-both the cared-for and the carer. It's a reminder of the shared human experience and the impact of kindness and recognition.
Why Read "The Care Home"?
- For Understanding: Whether you're a healthcare professional, a patient, or someone who's witnessed the caring journey from the sidelines, this book offers a mirror to the realities often left unspoken.
- For Inspiration: Amidst the tales of hardship, find stories of hope and human connection that inspire resilience and compassion.
- For Change: By bringing these stories to light, Rijsdijk hopes to foster a greater understanding and spur change in how caregivers and healthcare workers are perceived and treated.
About the Author: Rebecca Rijsdijk is a healthcare worker with a background in design who turned to the written word to cope with and make sense of her experiences. Through her writing, she seeks to shed light on the hidden corners of care professions and to honour the stories of those who spend their days making life better for others.
Reviews:"The Care Home is as honest a portrayal of life as you will ever get. There is no glory or fame, just the stark realisation that you are dying, and you are lucky enough to do so not watching death tick another life away, day in and day out." - Mickey Finn, author of 'Golden.'
"I felt these pieces very deeply. My mother worked in nursing homes for the majority of my childhood, and it was an enormous strain on her life and her health. The disregard for care workers is incomprehensible, and I love Rebecca for sharing these deep, hard truths." - Emily Perkovich, Editor in Chief of Querencia Press "This is hands down one of the best poetry books I've ever read!" - Jillian Calahan, author of 'Church Bells'