Dear Editor,
There are many things we plan for in life and as a consequence many things we prepare for. Sickness is not usually one of those things. We think about what we would consider most ideal when we think about our future; our lives as professionals, our families and our possible influence on those around us and in this way even those far away from us.
Unfortunately, a serious or life-threatening illness is something that many of us have had to deal with or are still dealing with. This may be a personal journey or you may be supporting someone else on this trying journey. The outcome may vary, but the people who have taken this journey will tell comparable stories.
Once a serious illness is ascertained, the process which ensues is often complicated and emotionally and physically draining. From an emotional point of view, strength, understanding and patience are necessary when trying to deal with this new reality. From a practical point of view, significant financial resources are usually needed. In all situations the expertise of doctors, specialists and different health care workers and the services of different institutions are also necessary. The support of family and friends is of course invaluable and the lines of communication must be clear.
In times like these you are always advised to put your trust in God. Considering the fact that God works through us, we must also put our trust in those who are now a part of this new reality. Whatever the specific situation may be, we can't do it alone; we should not have to take the journey alone. Unfortunately some of us still do.
A few months ago, my sister and I were a part of such a journey. Our mother started on this journey about six months ago after being diagnosed with a serious medical condition. For the most part, the process that ensued was riddled with incompetence, red tape, miscommunication, negligence and lack of compassion or understanding. This should of course never be the case.
This incompetence and red tape resulted in unnecessary physical and emotional stress and most likely progression of the clinical situation. The level of miscommunication and lack of communication were also far beyond what would be considered understandable and was unacceptable.
A social system should ensure that someone who is already suffering emotionally and physically has the guidance and assistance necessary to enable this person to concentrate on what their part of the process should be: getting well. This is definitely not the case with the social system that is now in place on St. Maarten.
I am writing this as someone who is still trying to understand why negligence is acceptable in our social system. I am writing this as someone who lost a part of her about two months ago and is still sharing an unbearable pain with those who also experienced this loss. This pain is accompanied with confusion and lack of closure. The latter is, however, not due to the loss itself but the surrounding circumstances. Too much was taken away from our mother and from those who loved and cared for her because of this lack of competence, compassion and care. In my case the emotional pain may never subside.
My one hope is that the employees of our social insurance company understand their role as patient care agents. It may sound strange, but as a patient care agent you do hold someone's life in your hands. It is imperative that you realize this. A position as a patient care agent is not just the opportunity to fill a position, it is an opportunity to provide a person with the peace of mind they need to embark on this journey. It is therefore a privilege.
My suggestion is to take your position seriously or to find another job. I am also writing this in the hope that no one else has to go through what we went through and are still going through.
A family member
Name withheld at author's request.
