Navy Veteran
Caregiver makes difference to Navy veteran and his pet dog
Unaided, the human body is incapable of flight or even great speed. However, with the right assistance, people’s abilities are boundless, regardless of their physical limitations. This concept is familiar to Houston native Robert Condon, a retired entrepreneur who made his fortune and his passions out of aircraft and automobiles. A U.S. Navy pilot at the close of World War II, Condon knows the importance of relying on others to go above and beyond what is humanly possible.
Beginning in 2006, when Alzheimer’s threatened to rob Condon of his independence, his family turned to a caregiver from Home Care Assistance. For six hours every other day, Condon’s caregiver, Maria Vega, helped him get out of bed, get showered, get dressed, get walking around and get a nutritious lunch.
“When he was by himself, he’d just lie in bed all day and never even eat,” says his sister, Misty. “But with Maria helping him, once he’s up and had his lunch, he just keeps on going the rest of the day.” His caregiver also drives him and his dog Sparky to the “bark park” every day, helping Condon stay social and happy.
A few months ago, Condon suffered a massive stroke. Maria, his caregiver, stayed with him in the hospital so he wouldn’t be alone. She also kept him safe in case he needed the nurse or got out of bed, making sure he did not fall.
Since coming home, Condon has required a caregiver to be present 24 hours a day, seven says a week. Now Maria drives him to speech therapy appointments and even helps him practice his exercises.
Having a caregiver allows Condon to keep the independent lifestyle he deserves. “Thanks to Home Care Assistance,” Misty notes, “We were able to keep him at home and out of a skilled nursing facility.” The whole family enjoys peace of mind. “It makes us feel safe, knowing he’s safe,” adds Misty.