July 10, 2023: Preparation of Informational Binder for Caregivers:
Six weeks from tomorrow, I begin my prison sentence and incarceration journey. Although it will be an adjustment for me, my greatest concern is for my 10-years-old son. As of today, I’m still amid a legal process to ensure he’s able to spend time with my family while I’m away.
I want to ensure that whoever is caring for my youngest son will be fully prepared. Additionally, despite my temporary absence, I really want my son to have as much normalcy and continuity as possible. I accept that I deserve the consequences of my crime, but my son does not and I want to minimize his pain, adjustment and the mental health implications as much as I’m able.
I’ve created a comprehensive binder that can be referenced while I’m away. Although I continue adding to it, the binder includes:
- Copies of front and back of all health insurance cards.
- Copy of his birth certificate
- Contact lists that include:
- All professional care providers, their role and contact details. This includes doctors, dentist/orthodontist, eye doctor, counselor, preferred hospital, etc.
- School information, key contacts such as the principal, counselor, nurse, teachers and any other individuals who directly support him. All contact details as well as a photograph of the individual if it’s available on the school website.
- His friends and their parent’s contact details. And, notes about each family. I’m hopeful that my son can continue having playdates, sleepovers, etc.
- My friends and their contact details. I’ve spoken with friends who are willing to assist in my absence. For example, if there’s an emergency or a schedule change it’s important to know who we can count on.
- School calendar that includes special events, days off, half days, holidays, etc.
- Copy of medical records and medications (accessed from the healthcare systems portal).
- All information related to sports, clubs or programs my son participates in
- Food preferences, allergies and foods to avoid.
- His daily routine/schedule
We all tend to keep a lot of information in our heads. While incarcerated, I anticipate that I’m not going to be available to accept phone calls or be readily available to help answer questions or solve problems. I won’t have access to my normal sources of information such as my phone, laptop or the internet. These limitations preclude me from maximizing how I can help.
In addition to the binder, I’m leaving behind a separate list of websites, usernames, passwords, and PIN numbers for my Designated Contact to access. This ensures real-time access to medical records, appointment scheduling, sports practice/game schedules, etc.
