A Job for the Heart
*Names have been changed.
One year ago, Cory reached out to me, a seasoned professional companion, and expressed a desire to spend time with me. Cory shared that he was living with ALS(Lou Gehrig's Disease).
Having a wealth of experience with diverse individuals, I was no stranger to unique encounters. However, I had never been with someone who was entirely dependent on the assistance of others. Cory's situation presented a new set of circumstances, and I approached it with an open heart and a commitment to providing a meaningful and compassionate experience.
I took the initiative to verify his request by checking with his reference who spoke kindly and offered insights as to what to expect.
When I arrived at his house, I was pretty nervous – my hands were sweating profusely! Several of his assistants were around helping to make him comfortable, while I stood by with my bag of gadgets wondering what he might want to do!
Soon, they closed the door and gave us privacy. Thanks to technology, Alexa was able to dim the lights and turn on soft music, completely changing the atmosphere of the space.
Meeting Cory, I discovered a remarkable individual with an indomitable spirit. Despite the challenges posed by ALS, his resilience and positive energy shone through. Right off the bat we were laughing. He said “the rest of me might not work, but the plumbing still does!”. We had a hearty laugh and needless to say, we became fast friends.
Navigating the intricacies of the visit required adaptability, patience, and a deep sense of empathy. It was a humbling experience that enriched my perspective, reminding me of the significance of human connection and the capacity for shared moments of joy and companionship, regardless of the circumstances.
Cory's courage and the warmth of our interaction left a lasting impression on me, underscoring the profound impact that empathy and genuine connection can have, even in the face of life's most challenging circumstances.
When I left, I felt humbled. I felt like I had done more than I ever had in my career, as I had been able to help someone who otherwise could not have helped himself. I have never felt as strongly about holding space and caring for another human being in this capacity then I did this day. I was so excited that I called some of my work friends to share about the experience.
Several weeks later, when he called me back, I was flattered and excited. Another round of emotion built up in me as we shared about life, told each other silly jokes and discussed the most exciting adventures.
During the initial months, there was a sense of stability in Cory's condition, with the progression of his disease appearing to be relatively unchanged. Our relationship evolved organically from shared experiences, laughter, and the genuine bond that forms when two individuals connect on a deeper level.
As time went on, I was beginning to see Cory deteriorate at a much faster pace. For our entire time together, we never once discussed his disease. We simply focused on the moments in time and the joy that 2 people could create for each other.
The last encounter with Cory marked an emotional chapter in our journey. While the physical connection underwent changes, the essence of our bond remained steadfast. Though we couldn't engage in the same way, his gratitude, love, and thoughtfulness shone through.
As the visit concluded, I sensed a shift in the air, a subtle acknowledgment that this chapter was drawing to a close. Despite the challenges, he remained resilient.
Three days later, the news of Cory's passing arrived, a somber moment that resonated with both surprise and the weight of reality. The absence of his physical presence was difficult to fathom, yet there was a profound understanding that the constraints of his earthly vessel no longer bound him.
In embracing the belief in the eternal nature of the soul, there emerged a sense of solace. The idea that Cory's essence, free from the confines of the physical form, could continue its journey brought a comforting perspective. For me, believing that the spirit endures added a layer of reassurance to the grieving process.
Cory's departure marked the completion of a unique chapter, one defined by shared moments, laughter, and an unchanging human connection. This experience showed me that what I am able to share with humanity as a Professional Companion is bigger than anything that I could have possibly imagined. I have expanded my own views, levels of compassion, patience and gratitude as a result; and I feel so lucky to be in such a wonderful place to be able to share that with others.