Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

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2025 brought twists, wins, and one announcement that changes everything. The sisters drop the news, spill the truth, and ask every listener to jump in for what’s next.

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If caregiving feels like the same day on repeat, you’re not alone. The sisters laugh, vent, and reflect on the patterns that just keep showing up.

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Susanne White's caregiving journey began unexpectedly when she received a call from her sister about their aging parents. Susanne's mother was in the early stages of dementia, while her father was struggling to care for her. As the eldest sibling living closest, Susanne immediately stepped up to become the primary caregiver for her parents.

Over the next four years, Susanne navigated the challenges of caregiving, including her strained relationship with her controlling mother. However, through this intense experience, Susanne was able to heal that relationship and gain a deeper understanding of herself. She describes the caregiving journey as "recovery and understanding and self-awareness on steroids," which ultimately made her a better version of herself. Even after the passing of her parents, Susanne continues to reflect on the lessons she learned as a caregiver warrior and how it transformed her life.

Susanne's story highlights the profound personal growth that can emerge from the trials of caregiving. Her willingness to be vulnerable and acknowledge the messiness of the experience resonates with many who are also on their own caregiving journeys. Susanne's insights on the importance of self-care, accepting emotions, and finding silver linings provide valuable guidance for fellow caregiver warriors.

About Susanne:

Susanne White is the Founder of Caregiver Warrior. She was faced with the opportunity to care for her parents and ventured out on a caregiving journey that would change her life. She blogs about this journey on her website, caregiverwarrior.comand shares her experience, strength and hope with others so that they too may navigate caregiving with grace and empowerment. White’s latest book, Self-Care for Caregivers: A Practical Guide to Caring for You While You Care for Your Loved One, is now available at your favorite book stores. Visit caregiverwarrior.com for more information from Susanne White, or follow her on X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram

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Bob Kay's caregiving journey with his wife Pat was one marked by deep love, resilience, and profound personal growth. After meeting as teenagers and building a life and business together over 45 years of marriage, Bob faced the devastating challenge of caring for Pat as she battled stage 4 breast cancer.

Through the ups and downs of Pat's treatment and declining health, Bob demonstrated unwavering commitment and compassion as her primary caregiver. He navigated the complexities of the medical system, learned hands-on caregiving skills, and leaned on the support of his daughter to ensure Pat's comfort. Despite the physical and emotional toll, Bob refused to give up, drawing strength from his love for Pat and their shared vision for their company and family.

Bob's caregiving experience also had a profound impact on him personally. He candidly shared how the trauma of losing his wife led to PTSD-like symptoms, which he has worked to manage through self-reflection and mentoring others. Remarkably, Bob has channeled his challenges into growth, becoming a more empathetic leader and finding joy in activities like video gaming with his family. His story is a testament to the transformative power of caregiving and the importance of resilience, connection, and self-care in the face of life's most difficult trials.

About Bob:

Bob Kay's journey is marked by resilience and partnership. He met Pat through mutual acquaintances and bonded over music at church, where she supported him during a challenging time of homelessness. They married on May 11, 1974, after a sweet proposal in a church parking lot. Together, they navigated college, with Bob pursuing engineering and Pat earning a business degree, eventually having two children.

In 1988, following an aerospace career and amid industry scandal, Bob and Pat founded Elite Engineering. Their collaborative efforts combined business acumen and engineering expertise, leading to a successful consultancy. Sadly, Pat's life was cut short by stage 4 breast cancer, diagnosed on their 45th anniversary. Despite the challenges, including a severe injury from a chiropractor, Pat remained a source of strength until her passing on January 2, 2020. Bob cherishes the valuable lessons and memories they shared throughout their journey together.

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Paul Ptashnick is back with us continuing his story of his caregiving journey. When his father was diagnosed with Parkinson's shortly after retirement, Paul stepped up to provide support, navigating the complexities of his father's declining health. His story takes an unexpected turn when Paul's mother is also diagnosed with Lewy body Parkinson's, requiring him to juggle the care of both parents simultaneously.

The challenges Paul faces are multifaceted, from his mother's phobia of nursing homes to the differing symptoms exhibited by his parents. Paul's proactive approach, including finding a family friend to provide overnight care for his wandering mother, showcases his resourcefulness and dedication. Additionally, Paul's insightful decision to involve his mother in daily tasks like laundry and cleaning demonstrates his understanding of the importance of maintaining a sense of purpose for those living with Parkinson's.

As Paul's caregiving journey evolves, he encounters the complexities of navigating the healthcare system, particularly when his mother transitions to hospice care. Paul's willingness to make tough decisions, such as opting out of hospice at times, highlights his ability to prioritize his mother's well-being and his own mental health. Throughout it all, Paul's commitment to self-care, including seeking therapy, exemplifies the importance of caregivers tending to their own needs to ensure they can continue providing the best possible support.

About Paul:

Paul Ptashnick is a freelance copywriter and fractional marketer focused on B2B startups in the InsurTech, FinTech, and AgeTech spaces. In addition, Paul’s wife Ana is also an entrepreneur, opening Red Apron Charcuterie in 2023.

When Paul and Ana aren’t working or playing with their fur baby Marty, they are usually traveling somewhere. Paul and Ana have visited Peru many times, and they have also spent time in England, Ireland, France, Colombia, and Mexico.

For Paul’s 50th birthday, they have another European vacation planned with stops in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and Croatia.

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In this episode, Christine Soza shares her journey from a young caregiver to a seasoned CNA. Starting with caring for her stroke-afflicted grandfather and a woman with dementia, Christine’s early experiences laid the foundation for her compassionate approach to caregiving. She discusses her roles in nursing homes, oncology, and AIDS care, emphasizing how her dedication to providing dignified care shines through. Christine also opens up about the personal challenges of balancing professional caregiving with family responsibilities, including caring for her aging parents and her husband’s relatives. Her story underscores the emotional toll of caregiving, the necessity of self-care, and her own health struggles as a result. Christine’s resilience and insights offer valuable lessons for caregivers everywhere.

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In this wrap-up episode, we discussed the "Caregiving Youth Hidden in Plain Sight" special series, a collaboration between JJ and Natalie and My Care Friends CEO Todd Keitz and Katie Seymour (VP of Programming and Community). We were all amazed at how eye-opening it was to learn about the challenges faced by young people caring for family members with disabilities or illnesses. We highlighted the wisdom and resilience shown by many of the youth caregivers featured while acknowledging the need to support those struggling.

In this episode, we underscored the vital role of policies, programs, and community coordination in identifying and assisting youth caregivers, drawing inspiration from successful initiatives in the UK. We stressed the ongoing need to raise awareness and provide resources to connect youth caregivers with the support they need. We urged our listeners to visit the podcast's website, where they can access the full series and contact information for the various organizations featured. We aim to create a centralized hub of information, empowering and assisting this often-overlooked population.

We also discussed the hidden nature of many caregiving programs and the challenge of self-identification among youth caregivers. We discussed ways to help overlooked youth, including a broader focus beyond the US, and the significance of awareness within the community, including schools and teachers.

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We are honored to hear from two extraordinary young women, Alia and Nahla Ahmed, who have been caring for their mother since the ages of 10 and 8. Their story is one of resilience, responsibility, and the unbreakable bond of sisterhood.

Alia (16) and Nahla (14) candidly share how their lives were upended when their mother suffered a debilitating polio relapse amidst the stress of moving their family. With no other relatives nearby, these remarkable teens became their mother's primary caregivers, tackling everything from helping her walk to managing the household. Their dedication and maturity beyond their years are truly inspiring as they navigate the challenges of balancing schoolwork, social lives, and the ever-changing needs of their beloved mother.

Throughout their journey, Alia and Nahla have faced misunderstandings from teachers and peers who fail to grasp the full scope of their caregiving responsibilities. Yet, these young trailblazers refuse to be defined by their circumstances, finding solace in the support of organizations like Australia’s Little Dreamers and the power of their unbreakable sisterly bond. Their story is a testament to the strength and resilience of caregiving youth, hidden in plain sight, and a reminder that these remarkable individuals can thrive with compassion and understanding.

About Alia:

Alia Ahmed is 16 years old and has been a carer for her mother since she was 10, following her mother's polio relapse. Initially, she helped her mother walk before she got crutches. Now, Alia assists with appointments, cooking, cleaning, and providing overall support and companionship.

About Nahla:

Nahla is 14 years old and has been caring for her mother since she was 8. In late 2018, Nahla, her sister, and her mother left their family home due to domestic violence. Shortly after, her mother experienced a polio relapse, initially undiagnosed, which required Nahla and her sister to help her walk until she received crutches. At home, Nahla and her sister assist with cooking and cleaning to make things easier for their mother.

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This episode highlights the impactful work of Lorenzo's House, supporting youth and families dealing with younger onset dementia. Featuring Olivia Compton, a 15-year-old youth leader, and Patti LeFleur, who leads the organization's youth programming, the discussion delves into empowering young caregivers.

Olivia shares her journey, explaining how she found support and community through Lorenzo's House after her father was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia. She describes the transformative impact of the organization's "light club" groups, which provide a safe space for young people to connect, share experiences, and learn mindfulness techniques. Patti elaborates on Lorenzo's House's three core programs - the match, clubs, and youth summit - all aim to combat isolation, build alliances, and drive dementia justice. The discussion highlights the organization's commitment to centering youth voices and experiences and empowering young caregivers to advocate for change.

Olivia's wisdom and resilience shine through as she offers advice to other youth navigating the challenges of having a parent with dementia. The episode underscores the critical need to support caregiving youth, who often face stigma and struggle to find resources tailored to their unique experiences. Lorenzo's House emerges as a beacon of hope, providing essential services and fostering a growing community of young advocates determined to make a difference.

About:

Olivia:

Olivia, a 15-year-old 9th grader, is a vital part of Lorenzo's House. After her father's Lewy Body Dementia diagnosis, she found community in the Teen Light Club and served as a Youth Lead at the 2023 and 2024 Youth Summit. Olivia leads mindfulness sessions, openly shares her story, and warmly welcomes others. A talented pianist, cellist, and choir singer, she enjoys video games, reading, crafts, and anime. Passionate about helping peers through similar challenges, Olivia cherishes the connections and friendships she's built at Lorenzo's House.

Patti:

Patti is the former carepartner to her mom, Linda, who had younger-onset dementia - and a former elementary educator of over 10 years. Patti designs and leads our youth programming with intentionality, knowledge and love. Her capacity to connect with family members through lived experience and profound generosity of spirit sets the tone for how Lorenzo’s House shows up for families. Patti has a Masters Degree in Instructional Leadership and is a Certified Dementia Practitioner, has spent countless hours volunteering with people living with neurocognitive disorders, and as a community educator for the Alzheimer’s Association.

Social Media:

Website: https://lorenzoshouse.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lorenzoshouseofficial/

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This week, we’re shining a light on the inspiring stories of two young caregivers, Aaliyah and Samiha, from Canada. At just 14 years old, Aaliyah has been caring for her younger sister with autism her entire life. She shares how she supports her sister's social interactions, helps with schoolwork, and even shares her passion for rock climbing. Aaliyah’'s courage in the face of such responsibilities is inspiring. She found an outlet in the sport, using it as a way to channel her energy and reduce stress from the added responsibilities of caregiving.

Samiha's story is equally powerful. She began caregiving at the age of 11 when her mother was diagnosed with ALS. Now 24, Samiha continues to care for her mother, who is on a ventilator and uses eye-gaze technology to communicate. Samiha describes the challenges of being a "sandwich generation" caregiver, caring for her mother while also supporting her younger sister. She credits the young carers program through Hospice Toronto for providing validation, support, and leadership opportunities that helped guide her through those difficult years.

Both Aaliyah and Samiha emphasize the importance of finding community with other young caregivers who can truly understand their experiences. The young carers program gave them a space to be "normal kids" and build connections with peers facing similar circumstances. Their stories highlight the resilience, compassion and leadership skills that often develop in young caregivers, despite the challenges they face. This episode is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity, and the crucial role that community support plays in their journey.

About Samiha Rahman:

I’m Samiha, a 24-year-old young caregiver from Toronto, Canada. I graduated with a Bachelor of Medical Sciences in 2022 from Western University and am going back there this fall for Medical School. Since graduating, I’ve been working at Hospice Toronto, a non-profit organization that I’ve been a part of for almost 10 years (with their Young Carers Program). I love spending time with my friends and family, walks by the lake, and trying new restaurants.

About Aaliyah Zarem:

I am a 14-year-old older sister and competitive rock climber. I also love camp and canoe trips.

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This week’s special policy panel, featuring experts Marvell Adams Jr. and Toni Gingerelli, discussed policy change and support for caregiving youth. They highlighted the significant gap between the estimated 5.4 million youth caregivers and the likely much larger actual number, emphasizing the need for better data collection through school-based assessments and self-reporting to understand this hidden population's challenges and experiences.

The discussion, featuring Marvell Adams Jr. and Toni Gingerelli, covered the impacts of youth caregiving, such as educational disruptions and mental health struggles. They emphasized the need for recognition, resources, and inclusive policies, praising the national strategy to support family caregivers while calling for more inclusivity of youth caregivers. The conversation highlighted the urgent need for equitable, innovative, and collaborative policy solutions to better serve caregiving youth.

About:

Marvell Adams Jr. is the CEO of Caregiver Action Network (CAN), dedicated to serving caregivers, marginalized communities, and older adults. Inspired by Alzheimer’s disease since high school, he holds a Bachelor’s in Political Science and a Master of Healthcare Administration specializing in Aging Services. CAN aims to improve the quality of life for millions of family caregivers supporting loved ones with chronic conditions, disabilities, or diseases.

Website: www.caregiveraction.org/
Facebook: @CaregiverActionNetwork
Instagram: @caregiveraction
Linked In: @caregiver-action-network
YouTube: @CaregiverAction
TikTok: @caregiveraction

Antoinette 'Toni' Gingerelli, Director of Policy and Advocacy for the National Alliance for Caregiving, translates research into policy for America's 53 million family caregivers. She oversees operations for Act on RAISE, Caregiver Nation Network, and the direct care workforce policy portfolio. Previously Chief of Staff for NJ State Senator Vin Gopal, Toni holds a Master of Public Policy from Harvard Kennedy School and is an advocate for gender equity.

Website: https://www.caregiving.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NA4Caregiving/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caregiver_nation/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/national-alliance-for-caregiving/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/NA4Caregiving
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheNationalAllianceforCaregiving

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This week’s episode gives us a powerful and insightful look into the life of Aditya Akella, a 16-year-old caregiver for his younger brother with autism. Aditya's story is one of resilience, responsibility, and a deep commitment to his family. From navigating cultural differences in caregiving between India and England to balancing his academic and social life, Aditya's experiences offer a rare and valuable perspective on the challenges and triumphs of being a young carer.

Aditya demonstrates a level of wisdom and maturity that belies his young age. He eloquently articulates the importance of understanding the unique needs of each young carer, rather than making assumptions or providing one-size-fits-all solutions. Aditya's advocacy efforts, including speaking at the House of Lords and participating in a documentary, further highlight his dedication to raising awareness and creating positive change for young carers like himself.

Aditya touches on the importance of self-care and finding balance as a caregiver. He shares his personal strategies, such as spending time with his beloved dog and indulging in the occasional video game or hot chocolate, as ways to recharge and maintain his own well-being. Aditya’s story serves as an inspiration to other young carers, reminding them that they are not alone and that their experiences, though challenging, can also be a source of strength and personal growth.

About Aditya:

A self-described “regular teenager in England”, Aditya is interested in cars, public speaking, sports and politics. He is a proud older brother for his younger brother, age 11, who has severe autism, ADHD, and is non-verbal. Aditya share, “A lot of carers fall into the trap of feeling insecure or restricted by their role, though being a carer is more of a launchpad than it is a well”.

Connect with Aditya:

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aditya-akella-349297267/

Blog: https://akellatech.blogspot.com/

The sisters proudly partner with the Caregiver Action Network. CAN's Caregiver Help Desk offers free support to family caregivers via phone, chat, or email Monday through Friday, 8:00 am - 7:00 pm Eastern. Get answers, resources, support group info, or a listening ear. Visit www.caregiveraction.org/helpdesk/ or call 855-277-3640.

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Kids Kicking Cancer's work is vital in supporting families navigating the complexities of chronic illness. KKC empowers children with chronic illnesses and their families through the power of martial arts and breathwork. Founder and International Director Rabbi Elimelech Goldberg “Rabbi G” shares his deeply personal story that led to the creation of Kids Kicking Cancer and the organization's remarkable growth from 10 children in 1 facility to over 126 facilities across 10 countries.

Rabbi G, alongside Global Program Director Cindy Cohe, explains the organization's distinctive method - using therapeutic martial arts techniques to assist children in handling pain and stress. KKC also promotes a sense of purpose, peace, and community. Kids Kicking Cancer values the family unit as a whole, offering support not only to the child in treatment but also to siblings, parents, and other caregivers. We discuss the difficulties faced by caregiving youth and stress the significance of establishing a supportive network for these often-overlooked individuals.

They go on to share about The Heroes Circle Pediatric Healing Program, which teaches martial arts meditation, non-contact movement, and breathing techniques designed to empower children to take control of the pain and stress of their illness. Their evidence-based program is taught in-person and virtually by black belt Therapeutic Martial Arts Instructors and is provided to families at no cost. Children 3 years and older with ANY pediatric illness, and their siblings, are eligible for the program.

Social Media:

Website: https://heroescircle.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kidskickingcancer

Instagram: @kidskickcancer

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kids-kicking-cancer

Twitter: x.com/kidskickcancer

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/KidsKickingCancer

Books/E-Book/Resource: https://a.co/d/0bs6YgyG

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This week, we explore the compelling story of Dr. Feylyn Lewis, who assumed the role of caregiver for her mother at the age of 11. Following an unsuccessful spinal surgery that resulted in her mother's severe disability, Feylyn found herself taking on the responsibilities of a youth caregiver, assisting with her mother's daily needs and medication regimen.

Despite facing significant challenges, Feylyn balanced her caregiving duties with her education and personal life. Her story serves as a testament to the strength and determination of young caregivers, who often bear burdens beyond their years. Through her advocacy and research, Feylyn has become a leading figure in supporting and empowering these unseen heroes, striving to ensure that no child experiences the isolation and fear she encountered as a young caregiver.

Feylyn candidly reflects on her caregiving journey and shares insights into the unique challenges and needs of youth caregivers. Her narrative reminds us of the importance of recognizing and supporting these unsung heroes and underscores the profound impact that even the youngest individuals can have on the lives of their loved ones.

About:

A native of Nashville, Tennessee and a Vanderbilt University alumna, Dr. Lewis grew up as a youth caregiver for her disabled mother. Her experience with caregiving, disability, and living life on the margins led her on a path of global research and advocacy. She has a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a PhD in Social Work. Her research focuses on mental health and resiliency in youth and young adult caregivers, and she conducts research in the US, Europe, UK, and Australia. Dr. Lewis currently works as the Assistant Dean of Student Affairs at Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, where she is responsible for providing vision, leadership and strategic planning for student affairs programming that delivers holistic wellness formal support services, student life and community engagement.

Outside of work, she serves as the Vice-President of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging in the Junior League of Nashville and co-chairs the Congressionally appointed PCORI Healthcare Delivery and Disparities Research Advisory Panel, and she sits on numerous other international advisory boards. She currently resides in Nashville where she continues to provide care for her mother.

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This week's educational episode discussion features Pyx Health, a company on a mission to aid individuals battling loneliness, which can trigger various behavioral and physical health challenges. Pyx Health employs a blend of technology and human services to deliver around-the-clock care and support for those in need. Pyx Health strives to assist these young caregivers by offering social skills training, peer mentoring, and activities to help them achieve balance and nurture a stronger sense of self.

Today’s episode spotlights the significant efforts Pyx Health is making to aid young caregivers, a demographic often overlooked. Terry and Kathleen share compelling stories illustrating how the Pyx's interventions have empowered young caregivers to find equilibrium, enhance their social skills, and engage with their peers and community. At Pyx Health, staff understand the need for additional resources and are ready to offer critical support to these hidden helpers.

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At just 18 years old, Kaylin Jean-Louis has already taken on the immense responsibility of caring for her grandmother with Alzheimer's disease. Her story is a powerful testament to the resilience and wisdom of caregiving youth, hidden in plain sight. From a young age, Kaylin has navigated the challenges of her grandmother's declining health, helping her mother with daily routines and advocating for her needs at school. Despite the difficulties, Kaylin has found solace in her passions, such as marching band, which provided a much-needed safe space to express herself.

Kaylin's caregiving journey has not only shaped her personal growth but has also inspired those around her. She has openly shared her experiences with her peers, breaking down the stigma and isolation often faced by young caregivers. Kaylin's willingness to be vulnerable and her desire to support others in similar situations have created a ripple effect, connecting her with like-minded individuals eager to learn and lend a helping hand.

At the heart of Kaylin's story is the deep-rooted family values that have been passed down through generations. Her grandmother's example of selfless service and compassion has instilled in Kaylin a profound sense of purpose, driving her to aspire to inspire others. As Kaylin continues to navigate the complexities of caregiving, her unwavering spirit and determination serve as a beacon of hope for young people facing similar challenges. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience, empathy, and the transformative impact that caregiving can have on one's life.

About Kaylin:

Kaylin Jean-Louis is not just an 18-year-old third-year Broadcast Journalism scholar from Tallahassee, Florida. She is a dynamic force for positive change, embodying the spirit of compassion and service in everything she does. With a humble yet powerful mantra, "I don't want to be famous, I just want to make a difference in people's lives," Kaylin is making an indelible impact on her community and beyond.

Born and raised in Tallahassee, Kaylin discovered her passion early. She founded Kaylin's Caring Konnection, Inc., and the Youth Care Too! Movement, advocating for young caregivers.

Kaylin hosts "Inspiring Moments with Kaylin" on Hallelujah 95.3 FM and "Feel Good Vibes & Motivation" on 90.5 The Flava. Her ultimate goal is to inspire future generations to unlock their full potential and become award-winning multimedia journalists who empower others.

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This week's panel discussion unveils the hidden reality of caregiving youth worldwide. Representatives from the US, UK, Canada, and Australian organizations discuss the significant challenges young caregivers face, including lack of awareness, cultural barriers, policy gaps, and limited access to support.

The panelists, each with their unique experiences and insights, share a wealth of knowledge about the needs and experiences of young caregivers in their respective countries. They underscore the importance of early identification, culturally sensitive services, and policy changes to better support this vulnerable population.

Despite the challenges, the discussion highlights the strengths and resilience of young caregivers, who often take on adult responsibilities to support their families. This episode provides a comprehensive overview of the global state of caregiving youth support and the critical work being done to empower and advocate for them.

The panelists invite listeners to support their efforts through donations and awareness-raising initiatives. They emphasize the importance of recognizing and aiding caregiving youth, who play a vital role in their families and communities.

International Panel:

Andy McGowan, Carers Trust (UK)

Madeline Buchner, Little Dreamers (Australia)

Chelsea-Anne Alex, Hospice Toronto - Young Carers Program (Canada)

Connie Siskowski, American Association of Caregiving Youth (US)

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Rebekah Dowhy started caregiving young when her mother was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at her birth. Over time, she became a primary caregiver, handling tasks like feeding, medications, and wound care. It was emotionally challenging as she dealt with her mother's terminal illness and felt isolated in her caregiving role.

Despite challenges, Rebekah maintained a strong bond with her mother, finding joy in their shared moments. Following her mother's passing in 2017, Rebekah grappled with loss but discovered purpose in nonprofit work. At 27, she founded the Caregiving Support Network to address caregivers' isolation and provide practical assistance through services like home care and emotional support.

Rebekah's caregiving journey from childhood through founding CSN shows remarkable strength and resilience. By turning her hardships into help for others, she is making a difference for caregivers nationwide. Her work honors the care she provided for her mother and ensures no one feels alone in their caregiving role.

About Rebekah:

Rebekah is the founder and President of the Caregiving Support Network, a ministry dedicated to giving hope and practical relief to unpaid family caregivers.

Rebekah understands the relief respite care brings to caregivers. Her mother was diagnosed with MS the year she was born. Rebekah's caregiving started with simple tasks like brushing her mother's hair, but expanded to managing complex medical needs as her mother's illness advanced.

In 2015, the Caregiving Support Network idea was born while caring for my mother. I knew other caregivers shared the same challenges and joys. In 2022, that idea became reality.

Social Media:

Website: https://www.caregivingsupportnetwork.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/caregivingsupportnetwork

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caregivingnetwork/?hl=en

Email: info@caregivingsupportnetwork.org

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Beverly Barnett is a registered nurse and men's health advocate. She has dedicated her life and career to healthcare after developing a passion for nursing as a young girl receiving treatment at a segregated clinic in her hometown. She drew inspiration from the compassionate nurses who cared for her during this difficult time.

Beverly shared her personal caregiving journey of caring for her husband after he was diagnosed with late-stage colorectal cancer. Despite being a nurse, she struggled with feelings of anger that he had ignored symptoms for so long before seeking treatment. She cared for him at home for the three years he battled the disease, which took an emotional toll. After his passing, Barnett was inspired to help educate others, especially black men, about the importance of early detection and regular doctor visits.

Through her nursing experience and family health challenges, Barnett has gained valuable perspectives that she utilizes in her mission to promote proactive healthcare. She continues advocating for men's health issues while also caring for her aging father with dementia. Barnett's story illustrates the lifelong impact of caregiving and how personal experiences can shape one's career and drive to help others.

About Beverly:

For Beverly Barnett, nursing is more than a job—it’s her calling. Inspired by a childhood illness, she pursued practical nursing right after high school and earned a bachelor’s degree within four years. Her dedication led her to obtain a Master of Science in Nursing, allowing her to teach and shape future nurses.

Beverly’s passion extends to men’s wellness, particularly the health of Black men, influenced by her husband’s battle with cancer. She believes chronic illnesses rob families of priceless moments and advocates for men to lead by example in health practices.

Beverly recommends four steps to promote proactive health among Black men: understand your family’s medical history, commit to annual check-ups, share your family’s health history with your doctor, and track health metrics. These steps aim to shift from reactive to proactive health management, fostering a healthier life journey.

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Theresa Wilbanks' caregiving journey began unexpectedly when she lived abroad in Europe with her husband. As her father aged into his 90s, she took on more of an advocacy and support role from a distance. However, a series of health scares brought Theresa back home to the United States to serve as her father's primary caregiver. She dove headfirst into the intense role, unprepared for the emotional toll it would take. Through trial and error, Theresa navigated countless challenges with her father's independence, medical management, and resistance to help. She experienced deep burnout as small conflicts like spilled blueberries came to represent the daily struggles.

Determined to find sustainable strategies, Theresa worked to understand her own emotions and reactions within the caregiving relationship. She embraced mindfulness practices and set boundaries to better support her father while also caring for herself. Theresa's realization of accepting her fate as a caregiver rather than resisting it proved a turning point that allowed her to find meaning and growth in the experience. By openly sharing her journey, Theresa has helped countless other caregivers feel less alone and equipped them with practical tools for building resilience.

Today, Theresa continues her work to help caregivers through her writing, speaking, and role as founder of Sustainable Caregiving. Through the 12 strategies she developed on her own challenging river of a journey, she aims to reframe caregiving as an opportunity rather than a burden. Theresa's authentic storytelling provides hope, insight, and valuable lessons for anyone navigating the complex emotions and realities of caring for an aging loved one.

About Theresa:

Theresa Wilbanks is an author, speaker, podcast host, and founder of Sustainable
Caregiving. Theresa’s passion and purpose are to guide family caregivers on their
journey as they manage and provide care for a family member.

Theresa’s career enabled her to lead teams and develop training programs. She left it behind to live in France and didn’t look back until caring for her father became necessary. The caregiving experience inspired her to found Sustainable Caregiving and guide fellow family caregivers on their journey.

She became a Certified Caregiving Consultant and realized that more was needed as she began connecting caregivers to resources. Using skills developed in the corporate setting, Theresa deconstructed what made caregiving so overwhelmingly challenging. Through trial, error, and tears, she created the 12 Sustainable Caregiving Strategies to help caregivers navigate their journey empowered with confidence.

Theresa shares her vision of a sustainable caregiving journey and offers hope to family caregivers through speaking and in her book Navigating the Caregiver River: A Journey to Sustainable Caregiving.

Go to https:www.sustainablecaregiving.com for more information on how t

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Terrance Hawthorne is the epitome of unconditional love and devotion. For the last two years, he has courageously served as the primary caregiver for his wife LuCretia as she recovers from a brain aneurysm and multiple strokes. Despite facing this incredibly difficult situation, Terrance maintains an inspiring attitude and finds comfort, grace, and purpose in being by LuCretia's side. He honors his marriage vows completely by ensuring LuCretia feels respected, dignified, and engaged in life through small acts of care and involvement in the community. Even while working full-time, Terrance prioritizes LuCretia's needs above all else. He advocates for himself and asks for help when needed to support his wife during her recovery journey better. Terrance's compassion and servant's heart are evident in his actions for LuCretia and others. He hopes to use their story to uplift and empower other caregivers through the Caregiver Lifestyle Foundation.

About Terrance:

Terrance & LuCretia Hawthorne have been married for 23 years and hail from Mobile, Alabama. They relocated to Tampa, Florida in 2002 to embark on a new chapter as Mr. and Mrs. Hawthorne. As a blended family with 7 kids and 11 grandchildren, they dedicated nearly 20 years to serving in Revealing Truth Ministry, actively involved in the Marriage, Outreach, and Homebuyers ministries. Renowned as pillars in their community, they assisted the homeless and supported children in foster care.

Terrance and his wife are the proud owners of Platinum Plus Beauty Studio, a local business that has been serving the community for 18 years. While his wife pursued her dream as a Real Estate Agent, Terrance worked as a Supervisor in a local union and also served as a Credit Repair Agent. Together, they conducted free homebuyers and credit repair classes for the community, emphasizing financial literacy and the importance of building a lasting legacy for families.

In 2020, during the pandemic, a life-altering event occurred when Terrance's wife suffered a Brain Aneurysm and Multiple Strokes, with only a 1% chance of survival. Emerging from a Coma and battling Life Support, her miraculous recovery was a testament to God's purpose. Terrance now serves as her full-time caregiver, standing faithfully by her side through sickness and health. With unwavering hope, they continue to believe in her complete recovery, as healing is her destined path.

Connect with Terrance:

Instagram: @Terrancehawthorne

Facebook: @Terrancehawthorne

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From a young age, Jill Meyer-Lippert was thrust into the caregiver role, helping to care for her grandmother, who had Alzheimer's disease. She balanced supporting her grandmother with school and extracurricular activities.

Later in life, Jill cared for both her mother during breast cancer treatment and her father through various health issues until his passing. Through it all, Jill demonstrated incredible strength, resilience, and compassion. Even in the midst of her own hardships, her primary concern was helping her loved ones.

After losing her father to cancer, Jill found solace in marathon running and other endurance events. She channeled her grief into fundraising for cancer charities. Jill's experiences as a lifelong caregiver inspired her to start Side Effect Support LLC, providing resources to help cancer patients manage oral side effects from treatment. Through her organization, Jill is able to give back and make a positive impact on the lives of others facing similar struggles.

Jill's story is one of perseverance, purpose, and turning personal adversity into opportunity to help others.

About Jill:

Jill Meyer-Lipper is a Registered Dental Hygienist and the founder of Side Effect Support LLC (https://sideeffectsupport.com/). Side Effect Support is an online resource for cancer patients, family caregivers, and healthcare providers that aims to reduce harmful oral side effects of treatments to improve quality of life and treatment outcomes.

Jill is a 2014 recipient of the Sunstar Americas/RDH Award of Distinction, holds a certificate in Oncology Management from the University of Southern Indiana College of Nursing and Health Professionals, and is an instructor for the National Network of Healthcare Hygienists’ Oncology Certificate program. She is a member of the Registered Dental Hygienist Advisory Board for the Oral Cancer Foundation and was named one of the “6 Dental Hygienists You Want to Know” by Dimensions of Dental Hygiene magazine in 2022.

Connect with Jill:

Website: https://sideeffectsupport.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Support_Jill

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sideeffectsupportllc/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SideEffectSupportLLC

Linked In: www.linkedin.com/in/jill-meyer-lippert-8ba63050

https://www.linkedin.com/company/side-effect-support-llc

Blog URL: https://sideeffectsupp

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**************Jessica Guthrie shares her decade-long journey caring for her mother, Constance, who was** diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's. They had a close bond, with Constance owning a salon where Jessica assisted. However, upon Jessica leaving for college, she observed her mother's increasing isolation and forgetfulness, culminating in an Alzheimer's diagnosis at 66.

Over the following years, Jessica juggled caring for her mother while advancing her career, often flying back to Virginia. She put in significant effort to establish systems for her mother's well-being. As Constance's symptoms worsened, with behaviors like wandering, Jessica made the tough choice to return home in 2019. Working from home, she prioritized making new memories with her mother and appreciating each moment.

By 2022, Constance needed full-time care. Jessica arranged home hospice care for her mother, but resources were cut off early. Despite this, Constance's condition stabilized, but she still relies entirely on others. Jessica gained caregiving insights from her experiences and now shares her wisdom to assist others in similar situations.

About Jessica:

Jessica C. Guthrie, a visionary leader reshaping caregiving. With over a decade of experience, she advocates for dignified, respectful, and compassionate care. Believing in deep empathy, patience, and unwavering curiosity, even in adversity.

As a caregiver for her mother with Alzheimer’s, Jessica has seen the challenges faced by families, especially those caring for individuals with dementia. She stresses the need for a new approach to caregiving, with individuals, families, and healthcare pros collaborating. Through her platform "Career & Caregiving Collide™," Jessica shares her insights and innovative ideas, helping others balance their careers and caregiving duties. Her goal is to amplify diverse caregiving stories and ensure caregivers are fully supported.

Jessica has 13+ years of experience in education and non-profit management. Using her background, she's driving entrepreneurial efforts to create a better world for caregivers. She holds degrees in Sociology & Education Policy from Dartmouth College and Educational Leadership & Policy from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, TX.

Connect with Jessica:

Website: www.jessicacguthrie.com

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**************This week, Heidi McCann shares her story and her experience caring for her partner Curtis after he was diagnosed with ALS at 25. Heidi shares how she and Curtis met as teenagers in Vermont and maintained their relationship through college before Curtis began exhibiting symptoms of ALS. When he was diagnosed**, Heidi left her job to care for Curtis full-time. She moved with him to his small hometown to be closer to his support system and cared for him over the next year as his condition deteriorated. Heidi and Curtis married 22 days before his passing to declare their commitment to one another.

After Curtis' death, Heidi found new love and purpose, going on to write a book about her caregiving journey of living with and preparing for the death of her partner from ALS. She married again and became a mother of four children. Heidi also now cares for her own mother, who has Parkinson's disease. Throughout the episode, Heidi emphasized the importance of self-care for caregivers and making future plans for support systems. She shares lessons learned from her extensive personal experience of caring for a terminally ill partner through the challenges of ALS.

About Heidi:

Born in Hartford, CT, Heidi Erdmann Vance McCann graduated from the Loomis Chaffee School, where she discovered the power of words. Observing humanity from a young age, her high school years shaped her voice and leadership skills. At Middlebury College, she refined her writing and athletic prowess. After working in development and coaching tennis, she cared for her boyfriend with ALS, ultimately founding a nonprofit in his honor after his passing at age 26.

Over time, Heidi remarried and earned a MALS degree with a concentration in creative writing from Dartmouth College. She returned to the development field at Loomis Chaffee, where she currently works and enjoys tutoring. Living in Simsbury, CT, with her husband, Paul, and their four children - Martha, Ava, Caroline, and James - along with their dogs, Bruin and Bauer, Heidi treasures family time. Setting aside an hour daily for physical activity, she often finds inspiration for future books during this time.

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In this episode, we talk with Helen, Elisabeth, and Jonathan Nash about the gradual progression of care needs that often arise with an aging parent. Imagine standing on the shore of a vast ocean, watching the tide slowly come in - that's how the Nash siblings experienced their mother's increasing health issues and mobility problems. Over time, these changes brought them to the crucial conversation about relocating her to a safer living environment. Their story illustrates how caregiving responsibilities can gently unfold rather than arrive all at once.

Have you ever wondered how siblings can share the load when it comes to caregiving? Each Nash sibling played to their strengths—one coordinated medical care, another provided health guidance and another focused on social needs. We show how dividing duties among family members based on their skills and availability can create an effective care team.

Communication and respect are the pillars of effective caregiving, wouldn't you agree? The Nash siblings emphasize the importance of maintaining consistent messages with their mother and each other to minimize confusion. They also discuss the delicate balance of respecting their mother's autonomy while ensuring her safety. Their approach, rooted in compassion and clarity, offers practical guidance that underscores the value of these qualities in family caregiving situations.

About the Nashes:

The Nashes are a trio of siblings who have embarked on an unexpected journey as family caregivers to their mother, now in her early 90s. With a blend of professional expertise, unwavering dedication, and a touch of humor, they bring their unique combination of strengths to the caregiving table, ensuring their mom’s needs are met while preserving her autonomy and quality of life.

Elisabeth, the oldest daughter, has a background in finance and human resources. She’s the group's master planner. Her analytical thinking helps the caregiving group make the best choices for their mom. She always involves their mom in decision-making and respects her preferences.

Jonathan, the middle child and only son, is retired from the computer software industry. He’s the tech-savvy one of the group, the one who coordinates with their mom’s healthcare providers and caregivers. From ordering groceries to providing transportation, he ensures their mom receives the best care. Jonathan’s the one who makes them laugh with corny puns and irreverent jokes, lightening the mood when things are challenging.

Helen is the baby of the sibling group. She brings her 30+ years of nursing experience to the group, using her expertise to assist with their mom’s medical needs.

Together, the three “kids” make a formidable caregiving team, each bringing unique strengths and skills to the table, whether they are providi

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Zander Keig grew up in an unconventional household, as his father explored alternative spiritual practices like meditation and yoga alongside his career in engineering. Zander was exposed to these ideas from a young age. When COVID lockdowns began, Zander and his wife had to care for his father full-time while working remotely, which caused stress and isolation. Zander's father's health rapidly declined after moving to assisted living.

When his father was scammed out of $18,000, Zander realized something was wrong as his father had always been very conscientious but no longer recognized scams. Zander would move his father to Florida, taking on the role of primary caregiver for his elderly father, who was living with dementia.

Despite the challenges of caring for his declining father, Zander tapped into various support systems, attending both grief and all-male caregiver support groups. During visits, Zander focused on sensory experiences over memories of visiting his father. Today, Zander is committed to helping other LGBTQ caregivers by sharing his story and resources through consultative services.

About Zander:

Zander Keig is the founder of Keig Consulting, LLC and an award-winning speaker, educator, and author, earning many distinguishing accolades for his work, including the 2020 WPATH Harry Benjamin Distinguished Educator, 2020 NASW National Social Worker of the Year, and 2018 NASW CA Social Worker of the Year. Zander has earned a BA in Speech/Interpersonal Communication (1999), an MS in Conflict Analysis and Resolution/College Student Personnel Administration (2003), an MTS in Theological Systems (2004), and an MSW in Clinical Social Work (2012). He has subject-matter expertise in workplace conflict mitigation, implementing social care services, illuminating transgender experiences, and delivering dynamic personal wellness and well-being* webinars. Zander is a fifty-something-year-old first-generation American of Mexican heritage (Latino), a post-transition transsexual man, a Coast Guard Veteran, a childhood TBI survivor, a neurodivergent first-generation college graduate, and the primary caregiver of his elderly Veteran father living with Dementia. To build support and awareness for LGBTQ family caregivers, Zander co-founded the LGBTQ

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****************Elizabeth Miller has extensive experience as a family caregiver. She cared for her aging parents with chronic illnesses as they desired to age in place, which required much travel and coordination between siblings. She also cares for her older brother Tom, who has developmental and intellectual disabilities. Elizabeth shares moving her family members to different living situations as her parents' health declined. She continues caring for her brother, Tom, along with her siblings.

Elizabeth started the Happy Healthy Caregiver podcast and resources to share her knowledge and lessons learned from her caregiving journey. Through being open about her experiences, she has helped many other caregivers. Her podcast and newsletter provide practical self-care tips that empower caregivers. She emphasizes the importance of addressing all aspects of well-being, including physical, emotional, intellectual, spiritual, social, and professional fulfillment.

Elizabeth's caregiving experiences have transformed her career path. Where she previously worked in corporate settings, she now focuses full-time on supporting family caregivers through her business. She encourages letting go of expectations and having faith that things will work out, as she has survived difficult life challenges and transitions through caregiving.

About Elizabeth:

Elizabeth Miller is a family caregiver, caregiver advocate, speaker, author, podcast host, Certified Caregiving Consultant, and Certified Senior Advisor. Her personal experiences caring for aging parents with chronic and terminal illnesses and for a sibling with developmental disabilities inspired her to create Happy Healthy Caregiver, LLC, in 2015. She is an empty nester living in Marietta, GA with her husband and two dogs.

Connect with Elizabeth:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happyhealthycaregiver/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happyhealthycaregiver
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethbmiller/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/HHCaregiver
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/HHCaregiver/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happyhealthycaregiver
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAcYkpMK6I3Y0ep-kyvrZaQ

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David O'Leary had never seen himself as a caregiver but found himself in that role when his aging parents nominated him to be in charge of their affairs. As the youngest of six children, David was surprised by his parents' decision but stepped up to take on the responsibility. He organized his parents' paperwork and finances and helped care for his mother in her final years at home.

After losing his wife, David's father, Joe struggled with loneliness. But on a cruise in his 80s, Joe met and fell in love with another widow, Alice. David supported their marriage, which brought Joe ten more happy years. When Joe passed, David kept his memory alive with Joe the Monkey, a stuffed animal, accompanying him as he settled his father's estate.

Throughout it all, David found rewards in caring for his family that outweighed any frustrations. He encouraged open conversations about planning with his now-adult sons, hoping to ease their future as caregivers. With humor and dedication, David approached his unexpected caregiver role with the same love and commitment he had for his wife of 41 years. His story shows how caregiving brings families together across generations through life's challenges.

About David:

David O'Leary is a retired insurance executive with a long career in the industry. He is the fourth child out of five, with one older sister and three younger brothers. David has been married for nearly 41 years and has two adult sons. One of his sons is married, although, much to David’s chagrin, he does not have any grandchildren yet.

Connect with David:

Linked In: linkedin.com/in/dwoleary

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Lan Phan, a former caregiver for her mother with advanced-stage dementia, shares her decade-long journey. As Vietnamese refugees, Lan's mother worked tirelessly as a hairdresser to support their family. In her late 70s, her health declined, prompting Lan to leave her job in New York and move to California to care for her mother.

Lan faced challenges in finding full-time care and making decisions with her siblings about her mother's living situation. Her mother's dementia progressed, requiring 24/7 care and eventually a memory care facility. Navigating the healthcare system, advocating for her mother's needs, and dealing with caregiver burnout took a toll on Lan.

Lan's experience inspired her to start her own company and pursue speaking and writing to assist others. She realized the value of living intentionally and pursuing dreams, as time and mental capacity are finite. Lan aims to honor her mother's sacrifices by living fully and helping others through her work.

About Lan:

Lan Phan is an author and speaker known for her expertise in purpose, mindset, and continuous improvement. Her expertise has made her a sought-after consultant for Fortune 500 companies, where she advises CEOs and C-Suite executives to help them navigate the dynamic realms of business and innovation. Her thought leadership can be found in prestigious publications like The Harvard Business Review, Forbes, and Money.

As a keynote speaker, Lan has graced prominent platforms, including the United Nations, Stanford University, NYU Law, and events hosted by Fortune 100 companies like PepsiCo, Warner Media, Citi, Bank of America, Disney, and Meta. On LinkedIn and YouTube, her content reaches an audience of millions annually, resonating deeply across diverse demographics. Phan is named as one of the top 100 LinkedIn creators globally and top ten in Management and Leadership.

A Stanford University alumnus, she was honored with the J.E. Wallace Sterling Award, which recognized her significant impact through leadership and community service. She also holds a master's degree from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Lan resides in New York with her husband, Kevin, and their daughter, Morgan.

Connect with Lan:

Website: lanphan.co

Website Company: communityofseven.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lanphan

Instagram: Instagram.com/lanphanc7

Facebook: facebook.com/communityofseven

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Will Durocher, a devoted husband and caregiver, shares his heartfelt story of caring for his wife, Teresa. After several years of marriage, Teresa was diagnosed with dementia. Their love story began at church, where they formed a deep bond rooted in their shared faith. As Teresa's condition progressed, Will took on the primary caregiver role, navigating complex systems such as Medicaid to ensure she received the necessary support.

Caring for Teresa presented challenges, but Will found solace in providing small acts of kindness each day, bringing comfort to her. Even after Teresa's passing, her legacy continued to inspire Will through letters and stories that revealed her generous nature. Will attributes his strength and resilience during this difficult time to his unwavering faith. While deeply missing Teresa, Will finds solace in working on his classic car and connecting with others who understand the unique challenges of caregiving. This helps him cope with his loss while honoring Teresa's cherished memory.

About Will:

Will Duroucher's life changed drastically in 2010. Just a few years after marrying his sweetheart, Theresa, she was diagnosed with dementia. Will became her primary caregiver and jumped into learning about dementia and how to help Theresa. He talked to other caregivers and read everything he could find on the topic. There's no one-size-fits-all guide for caregivers, so Will has had to learn and adapt as he goes. It's a tough job, but Will is resilient and compassionate and always puts Theresa first.

When Will's not taking care of Theresa, he likes to relax by doing yard work. He finds it meditative and reflective. He also enjoys restoring a classic 1950s Mercury car. It's a challenging project, but it's something he's passionate about and feel a sense of accomplishment.

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George Ackerman shares his personal caregiving journey caring for his mother, Sharon, who battled Parkinson's disease for 15 years. As a New York native turned Florida resident, George came from a background of success as a lawyer and police officer. However, when his mother's Parkinson's progressed and she needed more support, George stepped up to become her primary caregiver.

He faced many challenges in caring for his mother, from managing her hallucinations and dementia to struggling to find trustworthy in-home caregivers. Throughout it all, George found purpose in advocating for others affected by Parkinson's through the foundation he started called Together for Sharon. Even after losing his mother, George continues fighting to support those diagnosed with Parkinson's, their caregivers, and others who have lost loved ones to the disease. He shares his story openly to raise awareness of the challenges of male caregivers and hopes to be a voice for those who feel unseen in their caregiving journeys.

About George:

Dr. George Ackerman (Sharon’s son) is from Brooklyn, N.Y. Now residing in Florida, he works in the fields of law, police, and education. George lost his mother, Sharon Riff Ackerman on 1/1/2020 due to Parkinson’s Disease.

George wanted to honor his mother and continue to help in the Parkinson’s awareness cause, but he did not know how to bring about change. We started TogetherForSharon® as a family to keep my mother, Sharon Riff Ackerman, ’s memory alive and share the message of Parkinson’s Awareness and hope for a cure.

Today https://www.togetherforsharon.com/ reaches thousands of individuals across the country for PD Awareness. George currently interviews individuals throughout the Parkinson’s community including various foundations, caregivers, and Parkinson’s warriors to help share their stories and causes.

Connect with George:

Websitehttps://www.togetherforsharon.com/

Emailtogetherforsharon@gmail.com

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-ackerman-ph-d-esq-mba-00871a82/

TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@togetherforsharon1

Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/togetherforsharon112020

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Ali Ahmadi's caregiving journey began unexpectedly when his mother-in-law was diagnosed with stage four lymphoma cancer over seven years ago. As a former Navy aviator and aerospace engineer, Ali prided himself on navigating difficult situations. However, nothing could have prepared him for the challenges of caring for his ill mother-in-law while balancing work and family responsibilities. Ali and his wife decided to bring her into their home without hesitation. Still, they soon found themselves overwhelmed trying to manage her complex medical needs and navigate the healthcare system alone.

At his wit's end, Ali was introduced to the TCARE protocol. Developed by researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, TCARE helped Ali and his family better understand the emotional toll of caregiving through clinical assessments. To Ali's surprise, the recommended care plan focused on marriage counseling rather than just medical support. This unexpected recommendation opened Ali's eyes to how caregiving impacted every aspect of his life. Through TCARE, Ali also discovered local resources he didn't know existed, like free family counseling. Inspired by the difference TCARE made, Ali developed the program into the caregiver support platform it is today.

Now, Ali dedicates his career to helping other caregivers avoid burnout through TCARE's individualized support plans and focus on preventing emotional hardships. Driven by his caregiving experiences and commitment to family, Ali continues working tirelessly to validate caregivers' challenges and connect them with the resources needed to care for their loved ones without sacrificing their well-being.

About Ali:

Ali Ahmadi is a veteran of three venture-backed tech startups, having raised over $100 million in funding. A former U.S. Naval Aviator, he holds an M.S. and B.S. in Aerospace Engineering from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and an Executive MBA from Washington University in St. Louis. Ahmadi has vast experience in the Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) industry and has developed strategic partnerships with Fortune 100 companies, including Microsoft, RGA, PwC, SAP, Salesforce, McKinsey, and Aflac.

Currently, he serves as the CEO and Co-Founder of TCARE, a company that provides a CMS-approved platform aimed at reducing family caregiver burnout and delaying nursing home placement through predictive analytics. TCARE has formed significant partnerships with companies such as Aflac, BlueCross BlueShield, Microsoft, Unum, Anthem, Cigna, and UnitedHealthcare.

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Ready for even MORE honest caregiver conversations? Become a supporter of "Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver" and unlock bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes peeks, and resources you won't find anywhere else! Plus, your support makes this podcast possible! Sign up at https://www.buzzsprout.com/2101429/subscribe
****************Paul Ptashnick shares his personal journey as a caregiver for his aging parents, both battling Parkinson's disease. His caregiving role intensified in his late 30s, especially after his father's significant fall. Navigating the healthcare system, Paul made tough decisions about his father's care facilities. Balancing work and caregiving, he highlights the importance of consistent caregivers for his parents.

Amid trials, Paul addresses caregiving's financial and mental toll. He emphasizes support systems, suggesting home healthcare and care concierge services. Paul advocates adaptability, learning quickly, ensuring interaction and mobility for parents. Despite challenges, he urges caregivers to treasure joy, prioritize personal happiness, take trips, and enjoy simple pleasures.

Paul's candid sharing offers invaluable insights into the reality of male caregiving, particularly for those managing the progression of diseases like Parkinson's. His story is a testament to the significance of open communication, persistence in advocacy, and the delicate balance between caring for loved ones and self-care.

About Paul:

When Paul and Ana aren’t working or playing with their fur baby Marty, they are usually traveling. They have visited Peru many times and have also spent time in England, Ireland, France, Colombia, and Mexico.

For Paul’s 50th birthday, they have another European vacation planned with stops in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and Croatia.

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**************Carlos Olivas left everything - his home, job, family and friends to care for his father with Alzheimer's dementia. He shares stories about their family, his childhood, and the hurdles of caregiving. Like so many caregivers, his journey began in a critical moment when a call from the dentist about his father's health prompted Carlos to become his main caregiver, putting his career and personal life on hold. This move highlights the deep value of family and the extensive sacrifices caregivers make.

In the discussion, Carlos talks about quitting his job due to the lack of remote work opportunities in his sector. His decision was driven by a sense of familial duty and a desire to support his father. He notes the impact on his social life and the guilt over not choosing professional care. Carlos emphasizes the importance of seeking help, overcoming obstacles, and personal development in the caregiving journey. He also discusses the role of male caregivers, the use of humor to maintain connections, and the formation of a support network, praising his dad's girlfriend's positive impact. Offering advice to fellow caregivers, Carlos stresses the significance of accepting mistakes, practicing self-care, and gratitude, and the lessons he continues to learn from his father.

About Carlos:

Carlos Olivas, a family man and caregiver, began a transformative journey in 2015 by leaving his career to care for his father with Geriatric Alzheimer's & Dementia. As a Caring Across Generations fellow, Alzheimers Association advocate, and Into the Dark Blue men's group ambassador, he passionately promotes compassionate caregiving and mental health awareness. Through his role as a social media content creator, he shares heartfelt narratives and valuable insights globally. Carlos is a member of We are HFC’s Care Squad and a caregiving.com Champion, engaging as a speaker on various media platforms, blogs, and podcasts. His experiences highlight themes of love, resilience, and life's vibrant hues.

Connect with Carlos:

Website: https://linktr.ee/charlierobot

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlierobot

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/charliedoescharliethings

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carloseveryday/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Charlierobot

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Todd Keitz shares his journey as a caregiver for his parents. After noticing she looked worse each week on video calls, he organized doctor's appointments and flew to Florida to accompany his mother to visits. He advocated strongly for her medical care, successfully transferring her to a better facility. Todd took over his parents' healthcare decisions and was their main advocate during his mother's 17 hospitalizations over 22 months. He also helped his father make difficult decisions about cancer treatment when he was diagnosed a few months later.

Todd discusses the emotional toll of caregiving. He experienced PTSD from constant cancer testing and waiting for results. Todd shares how he regained some control in his life after caregiving by writing about his journey and starting a podcast. He hopes to help other caregivers by sharing resources and stories. Todd emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive mindset while caregiving and finding one's voice when advocating for patients with medical professionals.

About Todd:

Todd Kietz is a passionate advocate for social good with a history of integrating community engagement and social impact into his life, starting from his teenage years volunteering in senior living centers. His commitment to social change has led him to create inter-generational programs, volunteer for Special Olympics, develop business curriculum for high schools, teach for Junior Achievement, mentor for Big Brothers Big Sisters, and consult in the healthcare industry. He also worked with the South Korean government on technology company consultancy in the 2000s.

In 2012, Todd co-founded Stock4Good, aiming to simplify stock donations to 501(c)3 organizations. In 2018, he moved to Florida to care for his parents, facing life-threatening diseases, an experience that inspired him to start My Care Friends, a platform supporting caregivers and patient advocates. Additionally, Todd contributes to the caregiving community as a member of the National Advisory Council of the American Association of Caregiving Youth and serves on the board of SayAh!, focusing on health literacy. He is also the Founder/CEO of 17 Commerce, bridging healthcare and technology through exceptional products.

Todd holds a degree from Temple University, where he studied Business and Economics.

Connect with Todd:

Website: www.mycarefriends.com & www.17commerce.com
Twitter/X: @toddkeitz @mycarefriends @1day1weekblog @17commercellc
Instagram: myca

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This week, we're giving you all an update on our caregiving journeys—kind of like a quarterly catch-up! We chat about the hurdles of advocating for our mom's medical needs and getting her to appointments. By sharing our stories, we hope to help you learn about Medicaid benefits and the importance of speaking up. We also dive into the emotional side of caregiving, from tough moments to finding humor and healing through sharing tales.

We get real about family dynamics as our sister Emilie steps back from caregiving. We respect her decision while recognizing the changes it brings. We touch on experiences with hospice care, the financial strains on caregivers, and our push for tax credits to honor unpaid family caregivers. Throughout, we aim to uplift and connect with you by sharing our honest caregiving highs and lows.

On a personal note, Natalie opens up about her worries about her husband Jason's upcoming cancer scans. Even with palliative care, the shadow of cancer affects our marriage. In the end, this episode is all about community, self-care, and navigating the maze of caring for our loved ones.

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Lisa Hale shares her journey navigating a lifetime of caregiving responsibilities. From her early experiences as the oldest sibling in a single-parent household to later years caring for her mother following a stroke, Lisa recounts managing various care roles simultaneously while juggling her own life. Lisa shares about stepping into the roles of a stepmother to a son with special needs and a wife to a husband with multiple sclerosis, which she consciously chose. Despite sometimes wondering about her choice and longing for 'me time', Lisa remains proud and resilient. Lisa's story reflects the strength and love of a caregiver. She was the eldest sibling in a single-parent household and took on responsibilities early on. When her mother suffered a debilitating stroke, Lisa cared for her while juggling multiple roles and trying to maintain her own life. She also became a stepmother to a son with special needs and a wife to a husband diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, requiring unwavering attention and support.

Lisa's journey highlights the importance of mental health and counseling for caregivers. Seeking professional help provided a safe space to process emotions, gain coping strategies, and find support. Maintaining relationships, friendships, and connections is also crucial, even amidst challenges.

About Lisa:

Lisa Hale is a 57-year-old dedicated caregiver, wife to a man living with autism and MS, and stepmother to an adult stepson also diagnosed with Autism. She is professionally the PR and Marketing Specialist for Lakeland Care, Inc., a managed care program that collaborates with the Family Care Program in Wisconsin. Their mission is to provide support and services to the frail elderly and adults with physical, developmental, or intellectual disabilities.

Demonstrating her commitment to self-improvement and providing a better life for her family, Lisa returned to college at the age of 50. She successfully attained her Business Administration degree with a concentration in Marketing in December 2021.

Despite her busy schedule, Lisa loves crochet and reading, even though time for such hobbies has become a rarity. A geeky pursuits and television fan, she enjoys shows like Doctor Who, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and Xena Warrior Princess.

Connect with Lisa:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093621925611

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-hale-23aa87a/

Other: www.lakelandcareinc.com, www.pyxhealth.com

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Jennifer Jenkins embodies the unwavering spirit of a lifelong caregiver. Her journey began at just 15, caring for her grandmother after cancer surgery. Later, tragedy struck when her brother, James, was wounded in Iraq. Alongside raising her infant child, Jennifer became his full-time caregiver and a tireless advocate for wounded veterans. Her responsibilities extended to her mother following a stroke, and despite these immense challenges, Jennifer welcomed a premature daughter into her life.

Jennifer emphasizes the importance of counseling and self-care, including journaling and yoga, throughout her incredible journey. While gradually transitioning some of her brother's care to his partner, she remains a dedicated caregiver and an inspiration to those balancing family and the extraordinary demands of caregiving. Jennifer's story is a testament to resilience, compassion, and the necessity of support for those who dedicate their lives to caring for others.

About Jennifer:

Jennifer Jenkins understands the complexities of being a full-time caregiver. “I had to start from scratch finding the answers,” says Jennifer. “My brother’s care required a unique set of skills that my background did not include. That’s why the connections I’ve made through Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) have been invaluable.”

In 2005, her brother James was wounded in combat while on a mission with his Army Stryker Brigade in Iraq. James endured a traumatic brain injury (TBI), partial hearing and vision loss, damage to his spine, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Jennifer’s journey has helped her understand the sacrifices, challenges, and unmet needs that caregivers face daily. Her message of love and support is clear and empathetic: “I do not see my brother’s needs as a burden. If I had to drop everything to help him, I would, and, quite frankly, I sometimes have. Thankfully, Wounded Warrior Project is always there to help us, too.”

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Jessica Patay shares her journey as a caregiver for her son, Ryan, who was diagnosed with Prader-Willi Syndrome at five weeks. Prader-Willi Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that requires 24/7 supervision and care due to its associated symptoms, including low muscle tone, delayed milestones, and an insatiable food drive. Jessica talks about the difficulties she faced with her newborn, Ryan, who was unable to cry or suck and needed a feeding tube and occupational therapy. Managing Ryan's anxiety about eating is an ongoing challenge that requires constant monitoring of the kitchen.

Jessica discusses the impact of her son Ryan's condition on her family and the importance of maintaining a healthy balance. She prioritizes spending one-on-one time with her other children and taking trips without Ryan. Jessica also emphasizes the importance of having a supportive community and resources for caregivers. She has created an organization called "We Are Brave Together" to provide a platform for caregivers of disabled children to connect and find support.

Jessica plans to set up a care plan for her son Ryan before she and her husband become incapacitated or pass away. She also emphasizes the need to take breaks as a caregiver and empower their children to survive without them.

About Jessica:

Jessica Patay is the founder and executive director of We Are Brave Together (WABT), a 501(c)(3)nonprofit organization that supports caregiving moms with children of all types of disabilities and neuro-diverse diagnoses. In addition, she is a sought-after speaker, podcast guest, writer retreat coordinator, fundraiser, mother of three, social influencer, and a champion of self-care practices and their positive effect on motherhood. Jessica excels at creating and supporting communities of caregiving moms, and she is a visionary for the disability community worldwide.

Jessica’s mission is to combat the isolation and burnout that these moms and their families face by creating supportive, resourceful, and empowering communities and meaningful connections. Her vision is that every family in the disability community is strengthened, equipped, and inspired for their unique journey. This vision has fueled WABT’s growth in 6 years into an international community of over 2200 moms, representing all 50 states and 24 countries. Jessica has helped launch dozens of support groups throughout the U.S., New Zealand, and Australia. To extend her outreach, Jessica hosts a podcast, “Brave Together with Jessica Patay,” which offers a library of inspirational stories and resources for the disability community.

Connect with Jessica:

Web https://www.wearebravetogether.org/

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/wearebravetogether/

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wearebravetogether/

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Jennifer O'Brien, author of "The Hospice Doctor's Widow," joins the podcast to share her deeply personal story of caregiving for her terminally ill husband, Bob. A hospice physician himself, Bob's diagnosis of advanced renal cell carcinoma forced them to confront their own mortality and navigate the healthcare system together. Jennifer, equipped with her own experiences with loss and a career in healthcare administration, played a vital role in planning for Bob's end-of-life wishes and her future.

Their journey wasn't solely focused on medical procedures and appointments. Jennifer highlights the concept of "Precious Time" - a term Bob coined to describe the irreplaceable moments left with a terminally ill loved one. She emphasizes the profound significance of these moments, fostering emotional connection and expression in a way that transcends the challenges of the situation. Their proactive approach, characterized by open communication and practical planning, not only ensured Bob's wishes were met but also enriched the quality time they shared. Even after Bob's passing, Jennifer finds solace in the plans he made for her well-being, a testament to his love and foresight.

Driven by her experience and a desire to help others, Jennifer has poured her grief and learnings into "The Hospice Doctor's Widow." This powerful book sheds light on family caregiving and end-of-life planning, advocating for open communication and a balanced approach between hope and reality when facing terminal illness. This episode is a must-listen for anyone facing a similar situation, offering invaluable insights, practical tips, and the comforting reminder that even in the face of loss, love and connection can leave an enduring impact.

About Jennifer:

In her 35+ years in healthcare, Jennifer O’Brien has served as a practice management consultant to physicians, CEO for two large medical practices, and held administrative roles in three academic medical centers. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Boston University and a Master’s in Organization Development from Loyola University – Chicago. Jennifer has authored 50+ articles in professional publications and peer-reviewed journals.

Her art journal, kept during her late husband's 22-month illness, was published as The Hospice Doctor's Widow: A Journal in February 2020. It has won several awards, including a Nautilus silver award in the Death & Dying/Grief & Loss category, a Next Gen Indie Book gold for Relationships, an IPPY bronze for Gift, and an International Impact gold for the book's interior design. Jennifer now shares her story, wisdom, and experience to help others understand the role of family caregivers and the importance of end-of-life preparations.

Connect with Jennifer:

Website: https://www.hospicedrswidow.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hospice

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In this frank and insightful conversation, we discuss the emotional challenges and hard realities of caregiving with Karyl Cunningham. Karyl was married for 18 years before her husband was diagnosed with stage three B lung cancer, a journey she describes as a 'crazy ride.' Having worked in the non-profit sector for over 25 years, Karyl shifted from her role as an Executive Director to a full-time caregiver. The conversation goes deep into her struggles to balance her responsibilities, her transformation into an in-home nurse, and the immense pressure to provide the best care possible. Karyl also reflects on gaining control of her life back after her husband's passing and her subsequent self-care journey. This episode highlights the importance of caring for oneself during and after a long-term care experience and the many different forms that caregiver support can take.

About Karyl:

Originally from Toledo, OH., Karyl Cunningham has worked in the non-profit field for over 25 years. Karyl has always had a passion for involving herself in this type of work for the greater good of society, people, and the communities in which they live.

Karyl feels that the beauty of the non-profit field is that you can present a different picture and impact of your mission while still being aligned with it, allowing people to connect in ways they usually would not, which leads toward creating an environment of community connection.

Karyl served as president/CEO of the historic Emanuel Community Center for 8 years and found that her greatest achievement was re-igniting the light of Emanuel and its purpose in a changing OTR community. With a great staff, board and volunteers, the center found itself amidst newfound recognition, but more importantly, living up to a mission of purpose and impact. Later, Karyl served as the director of the Cincinnati YMCA’s Black and Latino Achievers and finally wrapped up her career with American Red Cross and retired in 2021. Has as received various local, regional, and state accolades for her work in the non-profit field.

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Charisma Sydnor's path crossed with Cole's at a rehab center following his teenage spinal cord injury; their professional rapport blossomed into romance and they wed in 2020. Taking over from his mother, Charisma adapted to the comprehensive caregiver role, focusing on fostering independence for Cole while ensuring their connection thrives beyond her caregiving responsibilities. They openly celebrate their life together on social networks, challenging preconceptions about disability and relationships. Their shared narrative delves into the seamless transition from dating to matrimony, weaving in the complexities and dedication involved in caregiving. Charisma speaks to establishing a healthy balance of duties and intimacy, highlighting continuous dialogue, self-care, and an optimistic perspective as cornerstones of their unique partnership. She emphasizes that a disability is not a hindrance, but rather a unique aspect of a vibrant and fulfilling life.

About Charisma:

Charisma Sydnor, 29, has lived most of her life as a native of Richmond, Virginia. Before becoming an entrepreneur, she pursued her master’s in Occupational Therapy at Shenandoah University.

The success of her and her husband’s business led her down a new and exciting path where she was able to use her platform for a broader purpose.

Together they started their vlog to bring people into their lives, their relationship, to answer some questions about how they navigate the world with some of the behind-the-scenes stuff people typically don't see, and hopefully raise awareness surrounding accessibility and dating in a wheelchair.

Outside of their channel, Charisma uses her Instagram to share what it is like being a caregiver to her husband, as well as tips and tricks to maintain a healthy mind, body, and soul while caring for someone.

Connect with Charisma

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happilycharisma/?hl=en

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charisma-sydnor-96632411b/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCA5Zfb-OOm7eDHHa8iu9izQ

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Marty Schreiber has dedicated his life to advocating for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers. As the former governor of Wisconsin and author of the acclaimed memoir "My Two Elaine's", Marty draws from his own deeply personal experience as a caregiver for his wife of 61 years, Elaine. For eight years, Marty cared for Elaine in their home as her Alzheimer's progressed, but he now admits he was unprepared for the physical and emotional toll it would take. Marty candidly shares his struggles, from trying to keep Elaine in his world to nearly working himself to exhaustion. He also opens up about difficult decisions like placing Elaine in assisted living and the guilt he still feels over not supporting his children through the process. However, Marty channels his regrets into wisdom, urging caregivers to accept help, join their loved one's reality, and focus on living fully themselves to best support their person.

Through humor, heartache, and hard-won insight, he offers invaluable insights aimed at aiding fellow caregivers to embrace support, understand the dual realities of their loved ones, and nurture their own well-being for more effective care.

About Marty:

Former Wisconsin Gov. Martin J. Schreiber is an award-winning crusader for Alzheimer’s caregivers and persons with dementia. Reaching audiences nationwide at live events and through various forms of media, Marty uses humor and compassion as he shares lessons from his ongoing, decade-plus journey as a caregiver.

His speaking tour takes him to conferences, civic organizations, senior communities, libraries, and more around the country. He has given more than 300 presentations since launching his awareness campaign in late 2016. Whether in Texas, Idaho, New York, Missouri, Florida, Ohio, or closer to home, caregivers tell Marty that his message encourages them and hope that they can manage their challenging situation.

Marty’s book, My Two Elaines: Learning, Coping, and Surviving as an Alzheimer’s Caregiver, is winning acclaim from caregivers across the country. It was rated as the No. 11 “Best Alzheimer’s Book of All Time” by bookauthority.org and was named to Caring.com’s list of “Best Caregiving Books” of both 2017 and 2018.

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In this episode, Jean Hartnett shares her experience caring for her elderly parents. Jean hails from a large Irish Catholic family and has an extensive healthcare background spanning over three decades. At 83, Jean's mother suffered a stroke, which led to Jean taking a job hiatus to provide care for her parents. She talks about the complexities of managing care with her siblings and balancing the needs of both parents. Jean moved in with her parents to provide round-the-clock care and faced the hardship of losing her father just months after her mother's stroke.

Jean utilizes her healthcare expertise to navigate her parents' care journey. The understanding of intricate systems like Medicare, as demonstrated by Jean, can lead to optimized benefits and comprehensive care. Knowledge of funding options and relevant laws allows caregivers to make well-informed decisions, ensuring the best care.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Anticipatory grief is real for caregivers, and acknowledging difficult emotions is part of the caregiving process.
Uncover the key healthcare regulations every caregiver should know to ensure the best care for your loved ones.
Reimagining family dynamics. Explore the complexities of family relationships and learn about reimagining family
Communication among caregivers is key to coordinating care schedules and updates on the care recipient's condition.
Self-care, such as yoga, is important for caregivers to manage stress and prevent burnout.

About Jean:

Jean Hartnett is a visionary healthcare leader with over 30 years of executive experience serving older adults. Known for inspiring new thinking and repositioning organizational strategy, she is recognized for significantly improving seniors' quality of care. With expertise in trauma-informed care and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), Jean brings a compassionate, evidence-based approach to support healing journeys. She has worked as a healthcare executive, professor, consultant, and strategic advisor for health systems across the United States. She is a dynamic communicator, sharing real-world senior care experiences with a captivating style. Jean holds a Bachelor of Science in Social Work and a Master's in Health Services Administration. She is a Certified Dementia Practitioner, Certified Yoga Instructor, and Certified Nursing Assistant.

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This week's episode showcases the incredible journey of Betsy Wurzel, a lifelong caregiver who began caring for others at the tender age of 4. Betsy's unwavering dedication is evident as she recounts her experiences caring for her mother-in-law, father, and her husband Matthew, who was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's at the age of 56.

Throughout her caregiving journey, Betsy emerged as a fierce advocate, championing the cause of Alzheimer's awareness and support. She pioneered the "Kick Alzheimer's" movement, igniting a spark of hope and rallying others in the face of dementia. Balancing the demands of a career and being a full-time caregiver, Betsy found solace and strength with the invaluable support of her son Josh.

In the face of countless challenges spanning many years, Betsy's resilience and unwavering compassion shine through. Her story serves as an inspiration, reminding us of the power of resilience and compassion during life's most trying moments.

What you will learn from this episode:

Education is important for caregivers to understand a loved one's diagnosis better and how to manage behaviors.
The need to advocate for yourself and your loved ones, especially regarding care needs and services.
That caregiving is a marathon, not a sprint, and taking care of your mental health along the way is important.
Celebrate your loved one's life daily and on special occasions, even after passing. Don't forget to honor their memory.
Early-onset Alzheimer's and other dementias are more common than people realize and can impact people of any age.

About Betsy:

Betsy Wurzel has been a caregiver her whole life. At age 4, she decided to become a nurse when her mother battled pneumonia. She worked as an LPN for many years while also holding retail and preschool education roles. In 1980, she married Matthew Sloan, and they had a son named Josh in 1984. Betsy became an advocate due to Josh's cognitive disability, and later extended her advocacy to her mother-in-law with Alzheimer's and her husband with memory issues.

To raise awareness about Early Onset Alzheimer's and caregiving, Betsy recorded and shared her experiences in car videos. In June 2018, she was recognized by Jeanne White, Station Manager of PWTRN, who invited her to speak on her Connect Show. By September 2019, Betsy had her own show, "Chatting with Betsy," where she discusses various topics with guests. In February 2019, Betsy founded the "# Kick Alzheimer's Ass Movement Group" on Facebook, creating a supportive community for caregivers with help from her friend Lorri Lorraine Lepore. Her tireless efforts were acknowledged in November 2021 when she received the Caregiving Visionary Advocate Award from Caregiving.com.

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Debbie Compton, a certified caregiving consultant, Alzheimer's Association educator, speaker, and author of 9 books, shares her invaluable experience in caring for her parents and in-laws, who faced various conditions, including dementia, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and vascular dementia.

Debbie recounts her journey, starting with her mom as the first to exhibit signs, eventually diagnosed with vascular dementia. She delves into the challenges of relocating her parents for closer care. Additionally, she compassionately tended to her father, who was diagnosed with Parkinson's, and her mother-in-law, who battled Alzheimer's. Balancing full-time work and caregiving responsibilities was arduous, ultimately leading her to decide to leave her job to provide full-time care for her parents.

Throughout her caregiving experience, Debbie found solace in her faith, allowing her to navigate the most challenging times. She also highlights the invaluable resources she has created, such as her coloring books "Color Me Calm" and "Faith Lives Here," which offer support to caregivers and individuals with dementia.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why It's important to know the person you're caring for - their likes, dislikes, personality, history, etc. which fully helps you provide the best care.
How faith and relying on scripture can help caregivers in getting through difficult times.
Focus on a person's abilities, not limitations. Enjoying activities like music and dancing can enhance mood and foster connection.
Siblings and family support matter. Assign tasks based on individual strengths.
Resources like Debbie's coloring books can benefit both caregivers and those with dementia by providing mental stimulation and comfort.

About Debbie:

Debbie Compton is a three-time caregiver for parents with different forms of Dementia, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Vascular Dementia. She is a Certified Caregiving Consultant, Certified Caregiver Advocate, Educator for the Alzheimer’s Assoc. speaker, and author of 9 books.

Debbie’s first book, Caregiving: How to hold on while letting go, offers actionable steps for caregivers and questions to ask doctors, in-home caregivers, facilities, and more. It is full of humor and inspiration.

Debbie founded The Purple Vine LLC, whose mission is to empower caregivers with the tools and strategies needed to reduce stress, block burnout, and learn to laugh again. This is accomplished through workshops, speeches, weekly newsletters, blog posts, and private 1:1 Zoom meetings.

Connect with Debbie:

www.linkedin.com/in/debbiedcompton

www.facebook.com/Caregiving.Book

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In this episode, we welcome Jean Lee, author of the memoir Alzheimer's Daughter. Jean opens up about her emotional journey of caring for both her parents as they battled Alzheimer's in their 80s. As a third-grade teacher, she noticed their health and abilities declining and, along with her sister, faced the tough task of convincing them to transition from their home to assisted living facilities - a decision that brought much guilt.

Diagnosed on the same day, Jean's parents' journey through Alzheimer's was not only filled with challenges but also highlighted the beauty of their enduring love story. Despite the sorrow of losing her parents in a memory care unit, Jean found solace in writing her memoir and co-founding AlzAuthors. This organization supports authors who are caregivers. Her experiences also led her to establish alzauthors.com, a platform for authors sharing personal narratives about Alzheimer's and dementia. Through these endeavors, Jean transforms her personal struggles into support and inspiration for others on similar journeys.

In this episode you will learn:

Understanding and respecting a loved one's feelings and autonomy is essential while transitioning them to a memory care facility.
Forming a relationship with your loved one's health providers and becoming part of their care team is invaluable.
Sharing the caregiving role amongst family members eases the burden and facilitates decision-making.
Prioritize self-care while you are in a caregiving role.
Sharing your caregiving journey through writing or speaking can be cathartic and beneficial for others in similar situations.

About Jean:

After the publication of Alzheimer’s Daughter, Jean connected with other authors of Alzheimer’s books, to co-found AlzAuthors.com with the goal of eliminating the stigma and silence often accompanying a diagnosis. AlzAuthors enables caregivers and those living with memory impairment to find written resources – memoirs, novels, nonfiction, children’s books and caregiver guides – which educate and enlighten. AlzAuthors, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, is managed by six daughters of dementia and has posted weekly essays from over 350 authors with direct links to their books, all written from personal experience with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Three years ago, they launched an award-winning podcast entitled Untangling Alzheimer’s and Dementia: An AlzAuthors Podcast. Their newest initiative brings real books to real people in real places through Custom Caregiver Collections, placing handcrafted, table-top lending libraries in locations where people whose lives have been impacted by Alzheimer’s and dementia gather.

Connect with Jean:

Website: Alzheimersdaughter.com ;

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In this episode of the Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver podcast, we have a heart-to-heart conversation with Barry Jacobs. Barry is a clinical psychologist, family therapist, and a principal for a national healthcare consulting firm. He shares his personal experiences as a caregiver for his father and stepfather, both of whom suffered from severe illnesses. This touching journey explores family dynamics and emotional challenges caregivers face and highlights the importance of resilience and self-care in providing adequate care for others.

Barry's unique perspective as a clinical psychologist, family therapist, writer, blogger, and caregiver shines through as he discusses his journey and how it inspired him to help other families facing similar experiences. We delve into the impact of caregiving on personal life, family dynamics, and marital relationships, emphasizing the significance of understanding and managing emotional reactions in challenging caregiving situations.

In this episode, you will discover:

Barry's personal experience as a caregiver, starting at a young age
Issues of family dynamics during caregiving
Impact of caregiving on marital relationship
Reflections on personal experiences and perspectives in caregiving

About Barry:

Dr. Barry J. Jacobs, Psy.D., is a renowned clinical psychologist and family therapist with a significant career in healthcare consulting at Health Management Associates. He spent over two decades as the Director of Behavioral Sciences at the Crozer-Keystone Family Medicine Residency Program. An accomplished author, Dr. Jacobs has published several books on relationships and caregiving, including titles under AARP. He's recognized for his 600+ presentations on family caregiving and holds an honorary board position at the Well Spouse Association. In 2016, he received a lifetime achievement award from the Collaborative Family Healthcare Association. Before his psychology career, he was a journalist for The Village Voice and Rolling Stone Press. He's been an AARP.org blogger since 2013. Dr. Jacobs holds a bachelor’s degree from Brown University and a doctorate in psychology from Widener University.

Connect with Barry:

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AARP.org Caregiving Expert Page
Books: The Emotional Survival Guide for Caregivers—Looking Out For Yourself and Your Family While Helping an Aging Parent (Guilford, 2006):

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In our final episode of 2023, we're taking a moment to reflect on what we've learned about caregiving and ourselves throughout the year. We'll also share some amazing insights from our incredible guests. Join us as we dive into the world of caregiving and discover how to strike a balance between self-care and nurturing relationships.

Caring for someone can be challenging, but it's important to find harmony between our personal obligations and the needs of those we care for. It's all about understanding, being patient, and showing deep respect for the person in our care.

We also explore the dynamics of sibling relationships in the caregiving journey. Sometimes, sharing responsibilities can strain our bond with our siblings. But we can foster understanding and maintain a strong connection through open dialogue and mutual respect. Remember, despite our differences, we can find common ground and preserve harmony by cherishing our shared love for the person we’re caring for.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Overcoming caregiving challenges and gaining valuable lessons.
Balancing caregiving roles while nurturing important relationships.
Understanding the impact on sibling relationships during caregiving.
Prioritizing self-care for enhanced well-being as a caregiver.
Embracing lessons learned and finding resolutions as a caregiver.

📖 Link to the article mentioned in the show: When Medicare thinks you're dead... but you're not. (confessionsofareluctantcaregiver.com)

🥰 Big thanks to our sponsor, Tena, for supporting this episode! Try Tena yourself here: https://buy.tena.us/link/1702396455795b19bcf4d/aebb325b-ab56-384c-3f88-f940d48f8663?

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Kitty Norton, the fearless filmmaker behind the thought-provoking documentary "Wine, Women, and Dementia," embarked on a life-altering journey as a dementia caregiver. With resilience and grace, she found herself thrust into this role, initially unaware of the subtle behavioral changes in her mother that indicated the onset of dementia. This unexpected twist profoundly reshaped Kitty's life.

She left her life in Los Angeles and cared for her mother in Portland, Oregon. Despite the emotional upheaval of this responsibility, Kitty found solace and moments of levity in dementia care. Through her candid blog entries, insightful videos, and poignant documentary, Kitty offers a unique perspective on caregiving for dementia. Her dedication and relatable storytelling make her an empowering figure in the caregiving community, providing solace and inspiration to others facing similar challenges.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Overcoming caregiving challenges: Insights and strategies for navigating the complexities of caring for a loved one with dementia.
• Harnessing humor in caregiving: Discover the power of laughter in creating moments of connection and joy amidst dementia caregiving challenges.
• Embracing self-care for family caregivers: Practical tips and techniques to prioritize your well-being while caring for a loved one with dementia.
• Navigating financial constraints and insurance: Tackle financial hurdles and explore available resources to support dementia caregiving.

About Kitty:

In 2016, Kitty Norton left her job as an NBC assistant editor in Los Angeles to care for her mother with dementia in Portland. She started Stumped Town Dementia, a blog that resonated with readers worldwide, sharing tales of dementia life. Kitty documented her journey with her mother in videos and, after her passing in 2021, created her first documentary feature film, Wine, Women, and Dementia. The film honors their journey and raises awareness of dementia caregiving, letting others in similar situations know they are not alone.

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Big thanks to our sponsor, Tena, for supporting this episode! Try Tena yourself here: https://buy.tena.us/link/1702396455795b19bcf4d/aebb325b-ab56-384c-3f88-f940d48f8663?

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Allison Breininger, an experienced educator with an MA in Education, took on a new role at 31: caregiver for her husband, Sean, who was diagnosed with the rare genetic disease Fanconi Anemia. Throughout the past eleven years, she supported him through a bone marrow transplant and various cancers. This journey made Allison realize the lack of support for caregivers, leading her to establish the non-profit, The Negative Space, to transform caregiver perception and assistance.

The unexpected twist in their lives significantly challenged their resilience and threatened their dreams. Despite this, Allison's dedication to her husband and herself remained a shining light amidst uncertainty. As a resilient caregiver, she navigates the delicate balance between productivity and self-care amidst challenges. Her powerful story showcases the impact of love and resilience in adversity.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Find practical strategies to overcome caregiver challenges and get the support you need.
Discover how caregiving affects mental well-being and learn practical steps for maintaining a healthy mindset.
Discover the value of a strong support network and see how it enhances your caregiving journey.
Discover ways to find rest and relaxation while caregiving.
Discover tips for managing caregiving while prioritizing your well-being.

About Allison:

Allison Breininger holds an MA in Education and spent two decades in various roles within the field. At the age of 31, she became a caregiver for her husband, Sean, who was diagnosed with the rare genetic disease Fanconi Anemia. Throughout the past eleven years, she has supported him through a bone marrow transplant and battles with cancer affecting his tongue, throat, gums, bladder, and skin. This firsthand experience has shown her the vital yet overlooked and unsupported role of caregivers. Motivated by her insights, Allison established the non-profit organization, The Negative Space, to change the perception and support for caregivers.

Through The Negative Space, Allison sheds light on caregiving realities, offers direct services to caregivers, and educates and equips their supporters with practical tools and strategies. She co-hosts the In Sickness podcast, provides individual coaching nationwide, facilitates support groups, partners with organizations, and sells caregiver gift boxes.

Connect with Allison

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Podcast URL
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Richard Lui is an accomplished American news anchor, journalist, speaker, and our guest this week! With a career spanning over three decades and notable contributions to humanitarian reporting and the film industry, Richard offered valuable insights drawn from his personal experience as a caregiver for both his parents. We discussed the evolving role of caregivers, the importance of open dialogue about caregiving experiences, and the need for societal appreciation and support for caregivers.

Richard delved into the impact of caregiving on personal relationships, sharing strategies to maintain connections despite the challenges. An unexpected discussion point was the intersection between caregiving and culinary skills, exploring how even a simple meal can bring comfort and joy in the caregiving journey. This conversation emphasized the necessity to nurture relationships and find happiness in small things amidst the complexities of caregiving.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Learn about the challenges and experiences that caregivers face. This can provide a level of understanding and support.
Understand the importance of open discussions about caregiving. This can lead to better care and less stress for both the caregiver and the person they are caring for.
Discover the change in society's view of caregiving and how it affects our way of supporting caregivers in our community.
Understand the impact of caregiving on personal relationships, as well as tactics to keep and improve these relationships while handling caregiving responsibilities.

About Richard:

Richard Lui, an award-winning journalist with over 30 years of experience in media, technology, and business, currently serves as news anchor at MSNBC and NBC News since 2010, previously at CNN Worldwide. Before journalism, Richard spent 15 years in business, launching six brands across three tech cycles and patenting a fintech model in 2003. He has held board seats for a fintech firm, a Silicon Valley AI firm, and various non-profits, including AIISF and Freedom United. Richard is a fellow at the National Association of Corporate Directors, one of 200 US State Dept Traveling Speakers, a Senior Fellow at think tank GMF, and ambassador for NGOs focused on gender equality and human trafficking. In 2021, his first book, "Enough About Me," was published by HarperCollins Zondervan, highlighting the power of selflessness. His directorial debut film, "Sky Blossom," was the most widely distributed documentary in 2021. Inspired by his own long-distance caregiving for his father, Sky Blossom focuses on student caregivers in diverse American military families. His second film, "Hidden Wounds," delves into mental health and is set to launch in November 2022. Richard serves as an ambassador for caregiving for the Elizabeth Dole Foundation's Hidden Heroes campaign, AARP, and Alzheimer's Association.

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Vantage Point Foundation (VPF) is a nonprofit organization serving post-9/11 veterans and veterans’ spouses and partners across South Carolina as they transition out of military service. VPF believes that three things are necessary to fully reintegrate into civilian life: Community, Growth, and Purpose. We also think that spouses and partners are often overlooked and that providing both veterans and their spouses and partners with programs and support is necessary for the health and well-being of the family unit.

Our programs are designed to address transition challenges, identify obstacles, and provide the support and connection that enables veterans and their spouses and partners to thrive in civilian life.

Contact Information for Organization:

Address:

P.O. Box 31224

Charleston, SC 29417

Phone: (843) 790-3131

Email:

info@vantagepointfoundation.org

Social Media: The handle is: @Vantage Point Foundation for FB, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Website: https://vantagepointfoundation.org
Home - Vantage Point Foundation

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vantagepointfoundation
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vantagepointfoundation/
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vantage-point-foundation
YouTube: @vantagepoint3478 Vantage Point - YouTube

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In the blink of an eye, Jessica Allen's life changed forever. One phone call, one moment, threw her into a role she never expected - that of a military caregiver when her husband was injured in Afghanistan. As she navigated this new life and family situation, Jessica demonstrated resilience and strength, using humor as a coping mechanism during the emotional upheaval. All the while, she worked tirelessly to maintain her marriage and support her family.

Jessica has a longstanding background in tax preparation and financial counseling. Her unique position as a military spouse and caregiver to her husband, Army veteran Chaz, has provided her with firsthand experience in dealing with the difficulties of caring for an injured loved one. Jessica has used this experience to write a book offering financial guidance for military and veteran caregivers. She has been acknowledged as a FINRA military spouse fellow and an Elizabeth Dole Foundation Fellow. Jessica's knowledge of the financial and emotional pressures faced by military caregivers makes her a valuable resource for others in similar situations. Her advice and advocacy work offers practical help and encouragement to military caregivers looking for guidance on their journey.

In this episode, you can:

Hear relatable military caregiver experiences that will make you feel understood and supported.
Learn practical strategies for overcoming caregiving challenges, empowering you to provide the best care for your injured loved one.
Discover the value of humor in the caregiving journey and how it can help reduce stress and bring joy to both you and your loved one.
Draw inspiration from the resilience of military families who have faced similar challenges and find hope in their stories of strength and perseverance.
Explore support systems and resources available specifically for military caregivers, helping you navigate the complex world of caregiving and access the help you need.

About Jessica:

Jessica Allen is an Accredited Financial Counselor who also recently completed a Master’s in History from Liberty University in August 2023. She operates her own tax preparation and financial counseling service in Middle Tennessee.

She obtained her BS in Political Science and History from Kentucky Wesleyan College. Jessica has prepared income tax returns for over twenty years. She is a 2011 FINRA Military Spouse Fellow and completed her Accredited Financial Counseling licensing in 2013. She is also a 2014 Elizabeth Dole Foundation Fellow. She authored Financial Fitness for Military and Veteran Caregivers in 2017. She provided the content for AARP’s Financial Workbooks for Caregivers.

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Amy Goyer is AARP's national family and caregiving expert and a returning guest on the show. Her caregiving journey, which began when she was just 21, can be found in episode 22 of the podcast. With her extensive experience and expertise in aging and families, including caregiving, grandparenting, and multi-generational issues, she has become a trusted figure in the field.

Enhancing the quality of life for all as we age—not just serving our nearly 38 million members—is AARP's mission. At its heart, the work that AARP and its affiliates do can be summed up in just 12 words: “We fight for and equip each individual to live their best life.”

AARP is especially proud to serve our United States veterans, active-duty service members, and military families. Our Veterans and Military Families initiative offers tools tailored to the military community for family caregiving, accessing earned military-service benefits, fighting fraud, and finding meaningful employment through AARP’s Veterans & Military Spouses Job Center.

Website:www.aarp.org/caregiving

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/aarpfamilycaregivers/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aarp/

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aarp/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AARP

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/AARP

Blog URL: https://blog.aarp.org/

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It was just another day browsing the fishing aisle at a local Walmart when Kasey Kelly had a chance encounter that led her on a path of strength, sacrifice, and love. She opens up about her husband's deployment and his traumatic brain injury, shedding light on the challenges faced by caregivers in the military community. As a military spouse, she braves the stormy waters of TBI caregiving, battles neglect from the military, discovers her own inner strength, and works tirelessly to create stability for her husband and children despite the trials of traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Kasey is a wife, a mom, and a dedicated caregiver. With a background in environmental science and education, she brings a fresh perspective to her caregiving journey. But her life took an unexpected turn when her husband, Stephen, was injured in the line of duty. Since then, Kasey has been by his side, fighting for his care and dealing with the challenges of his TBI and PTSD diagnosis. Her determination and resilience shine through as she shares her story and gives us invaluable insights into the world of caregiving for someone with TBI and PTSD.

In this episode, you can:

Discover your resilience as a TBI caregiver and find inspiration to navigate the unique challenges you face.
Gain insights and practical strategies for navigating TBI caregiving situations, allowing you to provide the best care and support for your loved ones.
Learn the importance of prioritizing self-care as a caregiver and how it positively impacts your ability to care for others.
Explore the various support systems available specifically for military caregivers, providing a sense of community and resources during your caregiving journey.
Find joy and fulfillment in everyday activities as a TBI caregiver, learning how to make the most of each moment and create meaningful connections with your loved ones.

About Kasey:

Kasey Kelly hails from Southern California. She pursued her higher education at the Evergreen State College in Washington State, where she earned a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science and Education. Prior to meeting Stephen, Kasey dedicated her time to serving in AmeriCorps and working within the non-profit sector. She is a proud mother to two boys and a loving pet parent to four dogs, three cats, and a flock of 14 chickens.

Connect with Kasey:

Linked In: linkedin.com/in/kasey-kelly-

Healing Strides: https://www.healingstridesofva.org/

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The Elizabeth Dole Foundation is the preeminent organization empowering, supporting, and honoring our nation’s 5.5 million military caregivers; the spouses, parents, family members, and friends who care for America’s wounded, ill, or injured veterans.

Founded by Senator Elizabeth Dole in 2012, the Foundation adopts a comprehensive approach in its advocacy, working with leaders in the public, private, nonprofit and faith communities to recognize military caregivers’ service and promote their well-being.

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Amy Buschatz's caregiver journey began when her husband, Luke, faced a life-altering traumatic brain injury (TBI) and PTSD during his Army Airborne Ranger deployment in 2009. In 2016, Amy and Luke knew something had to change. They made a radical reset and moved the family to Alaska (sight unseen) to support Luke on his healing journey. Little did she realize healing would come for the entire family.

Amy candidly shares the complexities of their relationship, the challenges they encountered, and how they coped together. We explore the ups and downs of Amy's caregiving experience, including moments of betrayal and the process of rebuilding trust. Amy also discusses how she used physical activities and therapy to navigate the emotional landscape while balancing her caregiving responsibilities with her own need for personal healing.

Amy talks about her experience as “two caregivers,” one caring for her spouse and raising two children and another supporting an independent spouse. Amy confessed it all - touching on mental health care, setting boundaries, and available resources for disabled U.S. military veterans and their spouses.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Enhance your caregiving experience by understanding the challenges and dynamics involved.
Prioritize your own well-being with self-care techniques that will support your role as a caregiver.
Discover the resources and tools available to make your caregiving journey more manageable and effective.
Learn how to balance caregiving responsibilities and other aspects of your life.
Develop self-awareness and effective communication skills to navigate the complexities of caregiving relationships.

About Amy:

Amy is a reporter for the Anchorage Daily News and the founder of the Mat-Su Sentinel, a non-profit startup newsroom in Alaska. She is the host and producer of the Humans Outside podcast, sharing what she loves - being outside and running.

But what in the world took her to Alaska - Caregiving. Her husband Luke sustained a TBI/PTSD during his 2009 deployment as an Army Airborne Ranger, though it would take years to understand its impact on Luke and their family.

So - in 2016, Amy, Luke, and their two sons - Huck and David - moved to Alaska sight unseen to help Luke find healing, Amy says in the process, they found healing for everyone.

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Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) began in 2003 as a small, grassroots effort providing simple care and comfort items to the hospital bedsides of the first wounded service members returning home from the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. As their post-service needs evolved, so have our programs and services. Today, through our direct programs in mental health, career counseling, and long-term rehabilitative care, along with our advocacy efforts, we improve the lives of millions of warriors and their families.

This effort requires the passion and commitment of friends, supporters, and like-minded organizations that enable us to fulfill our mission. With their collaboration and support, we strive to ensure that when those who serve come home, they’re afforded every opportunity to be as successful as a civilian as they were in the military.

Social Media Contacts

Website: woundedwarriorproject.org

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/wwp

Twitter: https://twitter.com/wwp

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/WoundedWarriorProjec

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wwp/?hl=en

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wounded-warrior-project/

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Pam and Mike Estes are military caregivers with an extraordinary story of dedication and resilience. At age 19, their son Jason, a brave veteran, faced severe challenges with a traumatic brain injury and burns during his service in Iraq. From the life-altering phone call that started it all, Pam and Mike's journey has been marked by their strength and determination, all while navigating the complexities of the healthcare system.

Their story isn't just a testament to their family's love and commitment; it's an inspiring tale for military families who find themselves in similar caregiving roles. Pam and Mike's experiences underscore the importance of seeking support, adapting to changing circumstances, and never giving up in the face of adversity.

In this episode, we'll delve into their remarkable journey, uncovering the valuable insights and guidance they've gained over the last 17 years. Join us as we explore their story, drawing inspiration from their unyielding spirit and discovering the essential lessons they have to offer for anyone on their caregiving journey.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Discover the unique caregiving experiences of military families and gain insights into their journeys of resilience and strength.
Explore the challenges caregivers face and learn how they navigate the healthcare system, inspiring your own caregiving journey.
Understand the importance of support organizations for military caregivers and learn how they can provide valuable resources and guidance in your caregiving role.
Find out how to discover activities and therapies that can drive recovery for your loved ones with brain injuries, boosting their progress and well-being.
Discover self-care strategies for caregivers in challenging situations, empowering you to take care of yourself while caring for your loved one with a brain injury.

About Pam and Mike:

Caregivers for son Jason, who was severely injured in an IED blast in Baghdad, Iraq on December 11, 2005. Jason suffered a traumatic brain injury, 2nd and 3rd degree burns to 60% of his body, and multiple leg fractures leading to a lower leg amputation.

Both worked at full-time jobs (Mike, a Systems Engineer, and Pam, a Payroll Manager) while caring for Jason until their move from MD to VA in 2016. Following the move to VA, Mike and Pam have continued their caregiver roles and advocating for continued therapies. Mike has participated in the Wounded Warrior Project Caregiver’s Summit (which led to caregiver benefits). Pam was a member representing caregivers on the VA Advisory Committee of OIF/OEF Veterans and Families appointed by VA Secretary James Nicholson.

Mike and Pam also have a daughter and son-in-law and, in 2020, welcomed a grandson.

Wounded Warrior Project
www.woundedwarriorproject.org
Matt Schultz (based out of Jack

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Dr. Colleen Richardson serves as the Executive Director (ED) of the Caregiver
Support Program (CSP), Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Dr. Richardson is
the principal advisor for the Caregiver Support Program, which provides resources
and education to Veterans and their Caregivers. Dr. Richardson is currently
responsible for the national implementation and oversight of two national programs
and associated services for the CSP, the Program of General Caregiver Support
Services and the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers. As
the Executive Director of the CSP, her responsibility is to sustain the program in
accordance with Public Law 111-163, Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health
Services Act of 2010, and the VA MISSION Act of 2018. Dr. Richardson directs a
Program Office with an annual budget of $1.8 billion, overseeing the delivery of care
to more than 55,000 Veterans and caregivers.

Prior to joining the CSP, Dr. Richardson served as the Chief of Psychology at the North Texas Health Care System in Dallas, Texas where she oversaw the Community Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOC) and the clinical practice of over 85 psychologists within the Mental Health Service.

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Struggling to find home health services for his father, Lance A. Slatton sheds light on many caregivers' challenges. The staff shortage makes it even harder to find suitable care, causing unnecessary stress. Home health services are vital for caregivers but are often overlooked or not fully provided, adding to the burden. Just when Lance thought he was getting closer to finding help, a sudden obstacle leaves him questioning whether he'll ever find the assistance he needs.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Discover caregivers' challenges when accessing support and learn strategies to overcome them.
Understand the importance of effective communication and early intervention in healthcare and how it can benefit both the caregiver and the care recipient.
Explore caregiving's impact on the caregiver's personal and professional life and learn techniques to balance both roles effectively.
Gain insights into the frustrations caregivers experience when trying to navigate the healthcare system and discover ways to advocate for better information and assistance.
Learn about the resources and support available for caregivers, including the importance of respite care and how it can provide much-needed relief and self-care opportunities.

About Lance:

Lance A. Slatton is a senior case manager at Enriched Life Home Care Services in Livonia, MI. He also hosts "All Home Care Matters", a podcast and YouTube channel. Lance was also named a 50 under 50 for 2023. By subscribing to the show, you will access a wealth of information and tips to help you provide the best possible care for your loved one.

All Home Care Matters is a multiple award-winning podcast and YouTube show devoted to helping families, caregivers, and loved ones navigate long-term care issues. All Home Care Matters received the Silver Creator Award from Google & YouTube in 2023. This award is only for 0.5% of the over 80 million YouTube channels. He also received the Academy of Interactive Visual Arts Award of Distinction for Film in Health and Wellness.

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Fisher House Foundation is best known for its network of nearly 100 comfort homes
where military and veteran families can stay at no cost while a loved one receives
treatment. These homes are located at major military and VA medical facilities
nationwide and in Europe, close to the medical facilities they serve. Fisher Houses have
up to 21 suites with private bedrooms and baths. Families share a common kitchen,
laundry facilities, a warm dining room, and an inviting living room. Fisher House
Foundation ensures that there is never a lodging fee. Since its inception, the program has saved military and veteran families an estimated $575 million in out-of-pocket costs for lodging and transportation.

Fisher House Foundation also operates the Hero Miles Program, using donated frequent flyer miles to bring family members to the bedside of injured service members as well as the Hotels for Heroes program uses donated hotel points to allow family members to stay at hotels near medical centers without charge. The Foundation also manages an awards program recognizing programs that support military and veteran communities and scholarship funds for military children, spouses, and children of fallen and disabled veterans.

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Helen Bauer, a certified hospice and palliative care nurse, has extensive experience navigating the complexities of end-of-life care. As her husband's aunt's medical power of attorney, Helen confronted her fears and strived to honor her wishes without preparation and support. Now, she shares invaluable insights and strategies to help you provide optimal care and effectively plan for your loved ones during this challenging stage.

With her field experience and passion for fostering connection, Helen's personal caregiving journey brings a unique perspective to the conversation. Whether you're seeking a deeper understanding or looking for the necessary knowledge and tools, Helen Bauer's expertise empowers you to navigate this difficult time with confidence and compassion.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Discover the importance of proactive planning for future healthcare decisions.
Learn about the challenges and responsibilities of being a medical power of attorney.
Understand the significance of advanced directives in end-of-life care.
Find out why having a strong support system is crucial during this stage.
Gain insight into the complexities of end-of-life care and planning.
Explore practical strategies for providing compassionate care during the end-of-life stage.
Gain knowledge on how to navigate legal and ethical considerations in end-of-life care.

About Helen:

Helen brings a wealth of knowledge and empathy to her conversations with end of life experts, personal and professional caregivers, and those personally impacted by hospice care. These conversations shed light on the end of life experience and offer hope and encouragement to anyone who is navigating this delicate phase of life. Through her experience as a Certified Hospice and Palliative Care Nurse and many years of practice as a hospice professional, Helen skillfully facilitates discussions that inspire, educate, and foster connection. Helen is a trusted voice in the field, and is committed to making The Heart of Hospice podcast a platform for meaningful conversations about hospice and end of life care.

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Robert and Desiree Pardi were living a life many dream of - where their dreams were their daily reality. But then, the unexpected happened - a lump, a sharp pain, a diagnosis that shook their world. They found themselves in uncharted territory, steering through uncertainty. They didn't realize it then, but this unexpected twist was about to teach them a profound lesson and reshape their path. Let's explore how Robert's unwavering commitment and a new perspective transformed their hardship into a formative experience, marking the start of a new chapter in their lives...

Robert is a man who's intimately familiar with the trials, triumphs, and transformative power of caregiving. While he started his career in finance, it was under tragic circumstances that he discovered his true calling. His wife, Desiree's, battle with breast cancer led him to become her caregiver and life coach, assisting her in achieving her dreams. Now, as the founder of Possibility in Action, Robert draws on his personal experiences to inspire others, urging them to step out of their comfort zones and embrace a world full of possibilities. As an established author, speaker, and certified life coach, Robert seamlessly merges tragedy, resilience, and love in a way that deeply touches those who come across his work.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Examine the unmatched resilience and determination that caregivers tap into when facing adversity.
Hear from male caregivers about the immense value of cultivating an environment that encourages open communication and support.
Discuss the power of vulnerability and the cathartic release that comes from expressing pent-up emotions.
Hear insights on finding moments of joy and beauty, even while navigating the challenging path of caregiving.
Explore the practice of shifting perspectives in caregiving and the remarkable results that can come from accepting life's impermanence.

About Robert:

Robert Pardi is a beacon of inspiration, a change catalyst, and the founder of Possibility in Action™. With an unwavering commitment to helping individuals break free from conformity and embrace intentional living, Robert has carved a unique path that resonates with those seeking personal growth and authentic transformation. Drawing from his own journey of resilience and overcoming adversity, he guides others to embrace change, amplify their potential, and craft lives of purpose. As an accomplished author, captivating speaker, adjunct professor, and certified Life Coach, Robert's influence extends far beyond words, touching the lives of those who are ready to escape the ordinary and embark on a journey of limitless possibilities.

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Caregiving for parents with dementia, Louise Thompson's journey was filled with challenges and sacrifices. From the initial denial to the determination to keep her father at home, Louise and her brother did everything they could to support their parents. But an unexpected turn of events would push Louise to her limits, testing her strength and resilience in unimaginable ways. Find out how one decision changed everything for Louise and her family, leaving an open loop of uncertainty and heartache in this episode.

Louise Thompson is a seasoned corporate professional, wife, Nana to Millie, and a published author. With a law degree and accreditation as a mediator, Louise had a successful career before becoming a caregiver for her parents with dementia. She openly shares her experiences of how caregiving impacted her health, marriage, work, and even her driver's license. Through her company, My Folks, Louise continues to care for her mother while providing support and guidance to others navigating the challenges of dementia caregiving. Her relatable and honest approach offers a unique perspective on the difficulties faced by caregivers.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Understand the challenges of caregiving for parents with dementia to support your loved ones and yourself better.
Discover the importance of creating a comprehensive caregiving plan while everyone is still able to participate actively.
Explore the emotional toll of caregiving and learn strategies for self-preservation and maintaining a sense of well-being.
Navigate the unique challenges of long-distance caregiving and find effective ways to coordinate care from a distance.
Recognize the need for support and compassion in your caregiving journey, as both you and your loved ones with dementia deserve understanding and empathy.

About Louise:

Founder of Myfolks, Louise Thompson, is a seasoned corporate professional with a track record of over 25 years in the legal and commercial realms of blue-chip technology companies such as EDS, BT and SAP. Louise’s leadership journey has seen her rise from spearheading commercial teams to contributing as a key member of executive leadership teams, where she has been MD and held overall P&L responsibility. Her impact extends beyond the boardroom, as she has shared insights as an invited speaker, author of several publications and a TEDx talk. She has a law degree, MSc, is a qualified company director and a CEDR accredited mediator. She is married to Paul and lives in Sussex in the UK, she is a step-mother and nana to Millie. She tries to stay fit, aiming to match health span to lifespan as far as possible.

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Life often throws us curveballs, and Lori Lemasters knows this all too well. She was adept at navigating life's storms, but when her mother suffered a sudden stroke, it took her into a new territory. Lori faced a tough decision, balancing cultural expectations and personal commitments. Her choice had far-reaching effects, marking a pivotal point in her journey as a caregiver. It's a story of love and dedication meeting unexpected challenges head-on, leaving Lori with a decision that could define her path.

Turning personal struggles into a source of guidance for others is not something everyone can do. But Lori is no ordinary person. As the founder of Care Partners Resource and Consulting, she provides empathetic support to those treading the challenging path of caregiving. In 2001, a series of unforeseen events led Lori from dealing with a divorce and mourning her father to caring for her sick mother and stepfather. This healing journey underscored the importance of emotional well-being, leading to her advocacy for therapeutic writing.

About Lori:

Lori Ramos Lemasters founded Care Partners Resource and Consulting and is a certified Journal to the Self ® Therapeutic Writing Instructor. She cared for her parents for the last eight years of their lives and used that experience to teach caregivers the benefits of using therapeutic journal writing to manage the challenges of caring for a loved one. Lori is a writer with publications under the last names of Lemasters and Cavallo. She has partnered with many local and national organizations to teach therapeutic journaling to caregivers. She created Caregivers Tuesday Talks Outside the Box, and in conjunction with AARP Care-FULL Conversations, both are available on the Care Partners Resource YouTube Channel. Most recently, Lori has published a journal/workbook, "You’re a Caregiver, Not a Saint: Yeah Write", which is available on Amazon or her website, CarePartnersResource.com

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Cindy Sim found herself in the role of a caregiver quite unexpectedly when her daughter was born prematurely. This journey introduced her to a world of vulnerability, pain, joy, and deep connections. It was a challenging path, filled with societal expectations and emotional exhaustion, but it also taught her the importance of self-care and understanding.

Taking these lessons to heart, Cindy founded Team Care Pal, where she now serves as CEO. She uses her personal experiences to support other caregivers across the US and Canada, providing them with much-needed empathy and guidance. While she excels as a business mentor, Cindy's true strength lies in her ability to connect with people on a personal level, offering wisdom and compassion to those she works with.

In this episode, we'll explore:

The often-overlooked struggles that caregivers face daily, providing a more comprehensive view of their world.
The importance of self-care for caregivers and how it contributes to better care delivery.
The value of connecting with other caregivers for emotional support.
How to balance family relationships while providing care.

About Cindy:

Cindy Sim is a dedicated industry leader and the CEO/Founder of Team CarePal, a company designed to support the millions of caregivers across Canada and beyond. Her inspiration stems from her personal experience in caring for her daughter and family members. Never did Cindy think that her commitment to caring for others would result in the creation of Team CarePal.

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In 2020, registered nurse Carla Yorro found herself in the midst of a global health crisis. Her professional role put her right on the frontline, and unexpectedly, she also had to face personal challenges related to the pandemic. Her story gives a clear picture of how she navigated through these difficult times, learning to trust her instincts.

Carla, from Florida, not only worked in one of the areas hardest hit by COVID-19 but also contracted the virus herself. She supported her husband through his fight with the disease as well. Her professional background naturally led her to caregiving roles, but she soon realized that these responsibilities could take a toll on her mental health. Carla's unique experiences offer valuable insights for those struggling with mental health while caring for others during this pandemic.

In this episode, you’ll have an opportunity to:

Understand the complexities of caregiving during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Learn about the unseen mental health impacts of caregiving responsibilities, backed by real-life experiences.
Understand the importance of self-care and how caregivers can set boundaries.
Appreciate the personal growth that can come from the caregiving journey, often seen as a thankless task.

Carla's story is both insightful and relatable, shedding light on the often-overlooked aspects of caregiving during a health crisis.

About Carla:

Carla Yorro, a 28-year-old Registered Nurse based in central Florida, has been married her husband Daniel for four years as of August. She worked on the frontlines during the pandemic in a COVID unit for almost a year and faced burnout in her career as a result. Carla and Daniel are Christian ministers and hosted a podcast until Daniel's health turned for the worst.

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In a world where caregiving often consumes every aspect of one's life, three sisters, Jen, Jamie, and Jesse, found themselves on an extraordinary journey. Their collective responsibility? Caring for their differently-abled brother, Matt. As they navigated the complex dance of love and duty, something unexpected happened that would forever change their lives. This is a story of resilience, sacrifice, and the beautiful spirit of sisterhood. Find out the turn of events that would challenge everything they thought they knew about balancing caregiving responsibilities with their desires.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Witness the power of inclusiveness drawing from the caregiving experiences of the Schiessle sisters.
Gain unique insights on the impacts that taking care of a sibling with disabilities can have on one's life.
Discover strategies for efficiently balancing personal life ambitions with caregiving responsibilities.
Understand the perspectives and intricacies involved in planning for the future care of a sibling with disabilities.
Immerse yourself in depicting the profound bond among the Schiessle sisters, fortified through shared caregiving responsibilities.

About the Schiessle Sisters:

The Schiessle sisters are originally from Northwest Indiana and currently reside across the US. Jen (the oldest) lives in Los Angeles, Jessie (the middle) lives in Palm Beach Gardens, and Jamie (the youngest) lives in Chicago. Growing up, we were all super active & played sports, including basketball, volleyball & softball. As adults, life took us in different directions geographically, but we are all avid travelers and try to see each other as much as possible. You can catch us at a trendy new restaurant, a Broadway show, or the nearest Hanson concert :)

Jen: Jen works as a sales rep in women’s fashion in LA; she’s worked in the wholesale side of fashion for the past 10 years and has a degree in Fashion Design. She enjoys reading, playing volleyball, and traveling in her free time.

Jessie: Jessie works for a private family as an Executive Assistant, starting her career in the industry as a nanny. She has traveled the world, experiencing different cultures and creating friendships in multiple countries. In her free time, she enjoys being very ACTIVE, playing volleyball, pickleball, and golf, going to the beach, going out with friends, and trying new things!

Jamie: Jamie works for United Airlines in their Customer Strategy & Innovation group. She started her career as a CPA and has held various roles within the airline industry. In her free time, she enjoys traveling to see the Cubs play at MLB stadiums, trying new restaurants, and the occasional karaoke bar.

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Dr. Cleo Booker courageously speaks up about the challenges of caregiving and the impact of substance use in a community where mental illness is often misunderstood and silenced. But, something happens that makes her question her beliefs and leaves her questioning everything she thought she knew. Find out what happens when the truth comes to light in this week’s episode.

Dr. Cleo Booker has a deep-rooted purpose that propels her forward. Having firsthand experience with the harsh realities of mental illness, her life took a transformative turn. Today, Dr. Booker is highly respected for her work in both private and public roles, and she plays a vital role in Forge Health, one of the fastest-growing private companies. Her journey, from witnessing the stigma surrounding mental illness to becoming an advocate, is truly inspiring.

In this episode, you will be able to:

The urgent need to understand and support mental health in our communities.
The challenges of navigating unseen medical conditions with empathy.
The vital role of honest family dialogues in addressing mental wellbeing.
The impact of ancestral distress on caregiving and the importance of comprehension.

About Dr. Booker:

Dr. Cleopatra Lightfoot-Booker (A.K.A “Dr. Cleo Booker”) is a nationally known Licensed Clinical Psychologist from Richmond, Virginia. She has led one of the country's largest behavioral health clinical teams and has held several Executive Leadership positions within state government, federal government, and the private sector. She is currently the Senior Vice President of Business Transformation at Forge Health, one of the fastest-growing private companies, according to Inc. 50000.

Dr. Booker has played a significant role across the country in helping to address the Opioid Public Health Emergency, increasing access to mental health services, raising awareness of mental health needs and stigma, and advancing technology to support the identification of mental health services. Dr. Booker continues working with various state and federal agencies, private companies, and community associations on policy, legislative, and multisystem changes.

Dr. Booker serves the community through her private practice (Focus4U, LLC.), pro bono work, and various volunteer community services. She currently serves on the Board of Local and Regional Jails in Virginia, where she is the Chair of the Policy and Regulatory Review Committee and focuses on delivering medical and mental healthcare for those incarcerated. Dr. Booker has been featured for two years due to her expertise, candid, authentic nature, and ability to connect with people at the largest African-American festival in the United States, the Essence Festival, in 2021 and 2022. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, nature, dancing, and listening to any kind of music.

Her favorite saying is, “I

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Christina Key's life brimmed with success and vitality. But fate had different plans in store for her. An unexpected phone call shattered her idyllic existence, thrusting her into a whirlwind of chaos and uncertainty. As her mother's health hung in the balance, Christina's role transformed from a thriving tech professional to a devoted caregiver.

Little did she know, this was just the beginning of a journey that would test her resilience, challenge her spirit, and uncover depths of strength she never knew she possessed. Get ready for a captivating story filled with triumph and heartache, where each twist and turn will keep you wanting more.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Unearth the unique hurdles family caregivers frequently meet and strategies to suitably navigate them.
Discover the vital role of a supportive community in bolstering a caregiver's experience.
Grasp how to balance caregiving tasks with essential self-care to maintain well-being.
Immerse in inspiring tales evidencing the transformative power of supportive connections for caregivers.

About Christina

Christina Keys pursued the American dream: a successful career, travels, financial stability, and happiness. However, everything changed on March 16, 2013, at 3:42 when her mother suffered a life-changing stroke. With just a 1% chance of survival, Christina shifted from a career woman to a devoted caregiver. Over the span of three years, caregiving left her financially, emotionally, mentally, and physically depleted. Doctors even predicted she had just six months to live due to the stress of caregiving. Faced with a crucial decision, Christina chose to not only change her own life but also help other struggling caregivers. She transformed her personal struggle into a mission through her work with "Loving Them Forward," a local nonprofit she co-founded and now presides over as president. Additionally, as the Director of Community Growth for caregiving.com, she leads a team of nearly 200 caregiving.com Champions, fostering positive changes for caregivers across the US. Christina dedicatedly cared for her mother from 2013 to December 2022 when she passed away, and she continues to support her ex-boyfriend, whom she began caring for in 2019.

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Jordan Peace's life story is marked by resilience and a testament to the power of empathy. At just ten years old, Jordan faced the harsh reality of cancer when his mother was diagnosed. However, instead of allowing the illness to define their lives, his mother's strength created a nurturing environment focused on love and family. This experience profoundly shaped Jordan, making him acutely aware of the struggles people often hide. Carrying these lessons into adulthood, he co-founded Fringe, a company dedicated to simplifying corporate benefits and positively impacting others' lives.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Realize the profound ripple effects cancer has on individuals and their loved ones.
Understand the irreplaceable role of empathy and comprehension especially in trying times.
Uncover your true identity amid the daunting responsibilities of caregiving.
Learn about the recuperative and fortifying effect of straightforward discussions.

About Jordan:

Jordan Peace is Co-Founder & CEO of Fringe, a lifestyle benefits company. Hailing from the world of financial planning, Jordan co-founded Fringe in 2018 after realizing that most people - especially Millennials - don’t understand their company’s corporate benefits. Along with four close college friends, Jordan created Fringe as a way to turn corporate benefits into a language that anyone can speak. He was previously the Founder & Chief Experience Officer of Greenhouse Money, and a Financial Advisor with Northwestern Mutual. Jordan lives in Richmond, Virginia with his wife and 5 kids. His favorite Fringe benefit is Sunday Lawn.

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In a world where life takes unexpected turns, Kathy Heberle's journey is a testament to caregiving's power. Kathy's story is filled with surprising twists, from her humble beginnings as a child thrust into the caretaker role to her later years as a successful real estate professional. But the true power of caregiving is revealed in the depths of her relationships and the unyielding strength of her connections. Join us as we delve into Kathy's remarkable tale, a journey that will leave you yearning for more, eager to explore the transformative potential of caregiving.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Discover the hidden struggles and rewards inherent to caregiving.
Unearth insights into managing complex family dynamics and relationships with siblings.
Realize the critical significance of pre-planning for the inevitable end-of-life arrangements.
Recognize strategies to balance your caregiving duties with your personal life and career.
Embrace the transformative potential of caregiving to strengthen bonds with your loved ones.

Kathy Heberle is the eldest of four and someone who has innovation in her blood. At the tender age of five, Kathy already provided nurturance and care, traits inherent to a caregiver. Her life experiences geared with umpteen family circumstances became the cradle where she cultivated resilience and adaptability. Kathy’s caregiving journey spans over 17 years, and each year has been a revelation, an exploration of the self. From being a dedicated mother and a committed life partner to becoming an emphatic and adept caregiver, Kathy has worn all hats with grace and humility.

About Kathy

Kathy Heberle hails from the vicinity of Buffalo, NY, where she assumed her role as the oldest of four siblings, a position that naturally bestowed upon her the responsibilities of a part-time caregiver.

Her academic journey led her to the State University of New York (S.U.N.Y.) at Buffalo, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology. After graduation, Kathy relocated to Erie, PA, to embark on her professional journey at Hamot Medical Center.

Kathy encountered her future husband a few weeks into her new life in Erie. The couple recently commemorated their 42nd wedding anniversary. They are proud parents to a married daughter and dote on their two adorable grandchildren.

In due course, Kathy transitioned from her medical technology career to the real estate industry, which she found immensely fulfilling. Today, she thrives as a realtor, thoroughly enjoying every aspect of her work.

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Life threw a curveball at Doreen Marchetti, testing her resilience unexpectedly. Little did she know the fierce independence of her mother would be overshadowed by the onset of Parkinson's disease. As if that wasn't enough, a devastating diagnosis struck her husband, further complicating her caregiving world. This is the story of a woman who faced unimaginable challenges, but what happened next would leave everyone wondering – how did Doreen Marchetti find the strength to carry on? Stay tuned to discover the unexpected twist that would change her life forever.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Discover the hidden tension of balancing caregiving while thriving in your career, digging deep into the real-life dilemmas of professional caregivers.
Learn about the critical role of personal autonomy in caregiving, particularly from the perspective of the cared-for individual.
Gain insights into how caregiving responsibility impacts personal well-being, shining light on the often-neglected aspect of self-care for caregivers.

Doreen Marchetti is an accomplished professional with 40 years of experience in various roles at IBM across 44 countries. Despite her demanding job, she also became a caregiver for her mother, Delores, and husband, Mike. For over 15 years, she has managed dementia, Parkinson's, Crohn's disease, and cancer while maintaining her professional and personal responsibilities. In the toughest times, she remained a beacon of strength, expertly balancing her job and caregiving duties even while traveling for work.

About Doreen

In 2022, Doreen Marchetti transformed a layoff into an opportunity, leveraging her expertise to assist companies in revenue growth, partnership expansion, sales advice, and culture reset. She now holds multiple leadership positions, including a fractional VP at IonIdea, Channel Sales Consultant with Maestro Group, Leader in the Tech Sales Network at Woman In Technology International, Business Development Lead for Do Think Do, and a board member at startup iSolvRisk.

Previously, Doreen served as Vice President of NA Channel Sales at Global Knowledge for two years, leading a talented team before Skillsoft's acquisition in 2021. Her 40-year IT industry career includes a notable stint at IBM, where she exceeded growth expectations, particularly in Worldwide Alliances. Her global experience spans 44 countries and numerous business units, mentoring many professionals who continue to excel.

Additionally, Doreen has been a dedicated caregiver for over 15 years, advocating for better healthcare and empathy. As a board member, start-up advisor, and consultant, she continues to inspire others while enjoying her passion for cooking and spending time with her family.

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In the whirlwind of life, sometimes the unexpected becomes our reality. It was a twist for Mike Marchetti that would forever change his path. Like many of us, Mike was thrust into caregiving after receiving a call about his ailing mother. He would rush to her side, where he remained serving as an advocate, supporter, and devoted son for six weeks. Later and without hesitation, Mike would support his wife Doreen’s idea to move her mother, Delores, diagnosed with Parkinson’s, into their home. Mike's resilience shone through as he faced the emotional exhaustion of this new chapter. But little did he know, this was only the beginning of a journey filled with challenges, love, and a determination that would leave you wondering, what other twists await him?

In this episode, you will be able to:

Grasp the true complexity of caregiving and simpler ways to strike a balance.
Understand the paramount role of advocacy in health services to encapsulate fair treatment.
Get a hold on the financial pressure of caregiving and viable ways to afford assistance.

Mike Marchetti is a seasoned entrepreneur with a past career in engineering. Beyond his professional success, however, lies a heartfelt journey through the highs and lows of caregiving. From the frontlines of electrical engineering to those of fast-food franchising, Mike gleaned a wealth of experience that fortified him for the role of a caregiver. His dedication to caregiving for others while managing his medical issues reflects his character and inspires us all.

About Mike:

Michael Marchetti graduated from Cornell University with a BS in Electrical Engineering. He then worked at the Kearfott Aerospace Division of the Singer company, focusing on Quality Assurance Engineering for missiles, US fighter jets, and fire control systems. During this time, he also obtained an MBA from Fairleigh Dickinson University.

After leaving Kearfott, Michael ventured into the fast food market sector, creating two franchise concepts that expanded to over 80 stores nationwide. He later sold the businesses and provided consultative services to other restaurateurs while dedicating time to teaching a chess program for K-8 grade students in the Montvale, NJ, school district.

He continued his involvement in education by managing and lecturing a middle school rocketry club, where students designed and launched model rockets accompanied by music at rocketry galas. Michael then joined the New Jersey Institute of Technology, focusing on manufacturing education and workforce development. He later transferred to the New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program (NJMEP), where he has helped NJ manufacturers improve profitability and workforce. NJMEP consistently ranks in the top tier among similar companies, contributing to New Jersey's corporate interests valued at over $7 billion.

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Join Chris and Anthony Marchetti on a journey that centers around a personal mission: upholding family traditions while caring for their loved ones. Through the twists of their caregiving experience, they face challenges that reshape their outlook on life. As they support their grandmother during her battle with illness, they draw strength from the love of their family and friends. However, destiny has more in store for them, testing their resilience and prompting a redefinition of their notions of love and devotion. This is the story of two individuals, a celebration of family bonds, and a testament to the connections that unite us all.

In New Jersey, Chris and Anthony Marchetti lead lives fueled by love, dedication, and a passion for music. While Chris works at Goldman Sachs in Manhattan, he cultivates relationships, proving that connections remain important even in busy schedules. Similarly, Anthony balances his role in software sales at Salesforce with escapes to coastal getaways and snowy slopes. Beyond their individual pursuits, the brothers share a bond with their grandmother. Having taken on caregiving responsibilities since their teenage years, they've learned to navigate the complexities of this role, offering a glimpse into the world of compassion and resilience. Their journey is a commitment, a story that highlights the complexities of caregiving, and a tribute to the strength of familial ties in the face of life's challenges.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Empathize with the important role family and friends play in caregiving.
Strike a balance between caregiving duties and your personal passions.
Appreciate the significant impact of promoting an inviting atmosphere for loved ones.
Analyze the constraints and considerations when distinguishing between at-home care and senior residences.

About Chris:

I am 30 years old, born & raised in New Jersey, and I work in Manhattan for Goldman Sachs. I have many interests, from movies and outdoor adventures to concerts and playing guitar, to history and binging museums.. I've always loved learning/experiencing something new. But four things will forever remain true: Star Wars is the greatest movie, Lord of the Rings the greatest book, The Beach Boys the greatest band, and Family & Friends the greatest of all.. these are immutable.

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About Anthony:

I'm a 26-year-old living in Hoboken, NJ, just a hop away from NYC. I work in Software Sales at Salesforce in the city. For fun, I love going out with my friends and attending concerts. During the summer, I try to get down to the beach, and come winter, you'll find me hitting the slopes and skiing.

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Experience the unexpected twists and turns that shaped Korene Carter's incredible caregiving journey. From a fateful encounter in a deserted house to becoming a trained CNA, Korene's story will ignite your spirit and touch your heart. But her true calling was revealed when she discovered the profound impact of personal connection in-home care. Brace yourself for an awe-inspiring tale as Korene navigates the intricate world of caregiving.

In a world where caregivers often go unnoticed, Korene is determined to revolutionize the care industry by empowering families with more control. However, when faced with opposition and daunting challenges that threaten to derail her mission, will she be able to find the answers she seeks?

We must never underestimate the power of support and recognition in a caregiver's life. By acknowledging their sacrifices and hard work, we can uplift their spirits, boost their confidence, and give them the strength to overcome the toughest times. Moreover, implementing effective physical and mental support systems can alleviate caregiving burdens, easing the practicalities of daily tasks and soothing the emotional strain.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Discover the indispensable role of support and recognition in the caregiving journey.
Delve into the creation of a caregiving structure that grants families autonomy.
Understand the necessity of self-care for caregivers and the driving force behind supportive communities.

About Korene

Korene Carter's notable contributions to the geriatric care industry are truly inspiring. She is focused on advocating for a smoother long-term care process, an undertaking that resonates with many. Her unique approach involves building a professional network of caregivers in NYC who utilize a home care model known as "consumer-directed care", empowering families to take greater control over their care process.

Beyond her professional network, Korene has made significant strides in establishing a self-care community for families burdened with caregiver responsibilities. Through her "Retreat with Me" Jamaican getaways, she emphasizes the importance of self-care within the caregiving process. Given that caregiving can be highly demanding and stressful, Korene promotes the essential practice of prioritizing one's own well-being to prevent burnout and maintain a high standard of care for loved ones.

Numerous individuals and families could benefit from Korene's experiences and strategies. Whether it's about taking a well-deserved break from the pressures of caregiving or avoiding common pitfalls through proactive planning and self-directed home care, Korene's insights prove invaluable. It's heartening to see entrepreneurs like Korene positively impacting their communities and enhancing the lives of those they serve123.

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Natalie and her husband have been going through medical appointments and scans to check for cancer. After a long and difficult journey, they received the news that her husband is cancer-free, and the scans look great. The couple feels immense relief and gratitude for the positive results.

The radiation oncologist is described as a powerful and brilliant doctor who created the treatment protocols that saved Natalie's husband. She admires the oncologist and all healthcare professionals who have dedicated their lives to helping others.

Although her husband is now cancer-free, Natalie acknowledges that he is still dealing with side effects from the treatments. She emphasizes the importance of ongoing support and prayers, not just for her husband but all those fighting cancer or other illnesses.

Natalie expresses her love and pride for her husband's strength throughout the journey. She believes that their experience has brought them closer together and made them appreciate life even more. They are grateful to God and everyone who has supported them.

At the same time, Natalie acknowledges that the fear and uncertainty of cancer still lingers even after being declared cancer-free. She hopes that by sharing their story, they can help others who are going through similar struggles and raise awareness about the importance of cancer prevention and early detection.

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Natalie shared a brief update on her and Jason's battle with cancer. She received news from the doctors that the MRI looked great, indicating that the cancer continued shrinking. They are grateful for another answered prayer and plan to continue on the path toward full recovery while sharing their journey with others.

They have another MRI scheduled in September in Roanoke before a significant PET scan on October 3. The PET scan will determine if the cancer has spread to any other part of Jason's body. Although nervous about the results, they trust God's plan and believe He won't give them more than they can handle.

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Natalie has been on a long journey with Jason, traveling and dealing with his cancer treatment. After returning home, they both found it difficult to find their new normal.

To help them through this tough time, Natalie stresses the importance of maintaining their prayer and Bible reading routine, which has always brought them comfort. With work as a great distraction, they are trying to focus on finding moments of joy amidst the chaos.

Recently, they visited New York for post-treatment appointments. The city always brings Natalie a sense of calm and familiarity; this trip was no exception. The doctors gave them positive feedback, and Jason is on the road to recovery. She saw so much beauty from their hotel window and felt closest to God in New York.

Reflecting on their journey, Natalie realizes that challenges are a part of life, but gratitude can make all the difference. Even in the toughest moments, there's always something to be thankful for.

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Natalie shared an update on her blog, highlighting Jason's progress in his recovery. She revealed that Jason is now off all pain and nausea medication and only takes one prescription. Although he is still struggling with the lack of taste in his food, he is slowly getting some taste back after the first four or five bites. Natalie also shared some exciting non-medical news, stating that they went to a restaurant for the first time since February 12th and watched a movie at the theater for the first time since before the pandemic. Jason has been walking to build strength, and they have even had visitors, which was a nice change. They are re-establishing their routine and finding normalcy, which feels great. Natalie expressed gratitude towards God for answering prayers and continuing to bless them daily. However, she also shared that she had been feeling reflective and sad as they left New York and struggled with depression and feeling unbalanced when they returned home due to being out of their routine.

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Natalie shares an update on Jason's recovery, stating he is doing well overall. His pain is subsiding, and the nausea is under control, although he is disappointed with the lack of taste in his food. Despite this, he has gained three pounds since leaving the hospital, showing progress in his recovery. Natalie expresses gratitude for the love and support from their family and friends, which has been a blessing during this challenging time. She also shares that she was recently asked to present on the benefits of relational wealth and strategies for building it within oneself. She learned that while things and money are helpful, relationships with loved ones and God guide us through the most difficult times. She encourages readers to surround themselves with people who love and support them rather than wasting their time on possessions or people who don't uplift them.

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Natalie's post discusses their journey back home after being in New York for Jason's cancer treatment. She shares a photo with a beaming smile and thanks the balloon fairy for making their return special. Natalie tells her readers to check out the photos on her website or Facebook page. She describes their long drive home, making a small mistake by missing an exit but quickly turning around. Natalie also mentions how they had to stop midway through the journey due to Jason's medication and potential blood clotting. On their first morning back, Jason tries to eat but immediately gets sick, which brings back memories of vomiting in public restrooms during his treatment. As they get closer to Roanoke, Virginia, she feels emotional and happy to be home, with balloons on their mailbox greeting them.

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Natalie reflects on how much their lives have changed since arriving in New York six weeks ago for Jason's cancer treatment. Despite the challenges, they have experienced unexpected growth and strengthened their connections with God, family, and friends. Natalie shares a positive update on Jason's condition, mentioning that his pain and nausea are under control, although he struggles with eating due to taste changes. Nevertheless, they explored the city over the weekend and had fun riding electric bikes in Central Park. They are now packing up to head home, with weekly telemedicine appointments and scans scheduled for the next month.

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Natalie reflects on her experiences and the lessons she has learned during Jason's cancer journey. She shares that despite not being able to be with family and friends, they have received so much love and support through photos, cards, books, and other items sent to them. Natalie encourages others to surround themselves with images and items that bring them peace and comfort. She also shares a positive update on Jason's condition, mentioning that he had a good day and could eat pancakes that he made himself. However, she also admits to struggling with balancing work and caregiving for Jason, realizing that her need for perfection and control has harmed their relationship. She reflects on the importance of focusing on what truly matters and not being afraid to ask for and accept help.

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Natalie provides an update on Jason's condition, sharing that he has been experiencing ongoing pain and distress, with doctors trying different treatments to control his symptoms. He recently needed to come in for fluids due to dehydration, adding to their struggles. Natalie went to the grocery store to find food options for Jason, accompanied by a supportive friend. Their mood improved as they found solutions and laughed together, but Jason still struggles with the taste of food after his treatment. Despite this setback, they are determined to keep trying and not give up hope. They pray for Jason's healing and hope to return home soon. However, their lack of sleep and chronic stress have caused tensions. Natalie felt defeated but found support and grounding from her friend, realizing that asking for and accepting help is essential and can make a significant difference during this difficult time.

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Natalie provides an update on Jason's condition, discussing his recent battle with a side effect and how they are managing it. Though Jason's pain is under control and his sleep has improved with medication, Natalie admits to struggling with her own sleep due to Jason's loud snoring. Despite the challenges, Natalie shares some positive experiences, including an encounter with three friendly dogs in New York and a spontaneous dance party and workout session while waiting for Jason at urgent care. She also reflects on the lessons learned and growth experienced during Jason's cancer journey, expressing gratitude for the kindness they have received in New York and the unwavering support of their family and friends.

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Natalie shared how exhausted she and Jason felt after their recent celebrations and how they focused on the next steps of medical procedures and treatments instead of being present.

She discussed Jason's physical condition, including terrible nausea, new sores, and extreme exhaustion due to the cancer treatment. Despite these challenges, MRI scans have consistently shown that the tumors are shrinking at the desired rate.

Natalie expressed her gratitude for their family and friends' support and the power of prayer. She also shared that the couple plans to return home on July 6 and will have follow-up scans in the future to ensure the cancer did not spread.

Reflecting on the journey, Natalie talked about how her prayers have changed and became more inclusive. She expressed her appreciation for the kindness and support they had received from those around them.

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Natalie shared a short but exciting update with her followers on June 21, 2022. She announced that Jason had successfully completed his final radiation treatment, and they had captured the moment on video. She expressed her pride and admiration for Jason's strength and determination throughout their journey.

Natalie shared several hashtags to accompany the video, including #hisplan, #askandyoushallreceive, and #blessedansweredprayers. She promised to share more of her thoughts later and encouraged her followers to watch the video for themselves.

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Natalie shares, filled with joy and gratitude for the successful completion of Jason's final radiation treatment. Despite a rough start to the day, including intense pain and a third-degree burn in his mouth, Jason could complete his treatment and ring the bell. Natalie shared photos and a video of the momentous occasion, expressing her excitement and pride.

She also reflected on the journey they had been through, expressing her gratitude for the love, support, and encouragement they had received from their community. She spoke about the strength and guidance they had received from God and the wonderful memories they had created along the way.

Natalie shared details about Jason's radiation mask and their plans to turn it into a piece of art as a reminder of their journey. She emphasized the importance of faith and trust in difficult times and encouraged her readers to hold onto hope and believe that good things are yet to come.

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Natalie provided a quick update to her followers, sharing the plans for the next couple of days. She mentioned that Jason would be giving blood and beginning two days of chemotherapy and final radiation treatments. She expressed excitement about ringing the bell and walking out after completing treatments.

She also provided a health update on Jason, stating that he was feeling very tired and experiencing pain from the shoulders up.

On a lighter note, Natalie shared details about their recent weekend, which included a bagel quest in New York City and a visit to a local park with their dogs. She also talked about her trip to Trader Joe's and joked about her grocery store Tetris skills.

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Natalie started her day with a positive message from Joel Olsteen. She learned about the importance of speaking good things over yourself and how it can affect your future. She decided to speak all good things into the world and had a positive day.

She listed several things that brought her joy and happiness, including spending time with her partner Jason. They finished day 14 of 15 radiation treatments, and Jason will soon complete his chemotherapy treatment. They are both excited and grateful for the progress they have made.

Natalie also reflected on the importance of being kind to oneself and not being too hard on oneself. She reminded her readers to wake up in the morning and let their best for the day be their best, no matter how small it may seem. She encouraged them to speak kindly and positively to themselves because they were worth it.

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Heather Zoccali has spent a majority of her life navigating the challenging world of caregiving. With experience caregiving for her mom, father, brother, and son, Heather has faced immense struggles and profound hardships. Despite these challenges, she has grown stronger and found joy and happiness in the most surprising places. Heather has been recognized for her beautifully beautiful approach to life and commitment to supporting other caregivers through retreats and mentorship programs. Her story is a testimony to the power of forgiveness, acceptance, and self-awareness in caregiving.

Heather's life has been a rollercoaster of ups and downs, but one thing always remained constant - her resilience and determination to find the silver lining in every situation. Growing up in a tumultuous household, Heather learned at a young age that finding joy amid chaos was an essential skill. As she navigated through her own health struggles, a challenging marriage, and the caregiving journey for her son Connor after his life-altering accident, Heather discovered the power of forgiveness and acceptance. With her signature humor and grace, she has inspired many as she focuses on maintaining her identity while being a loving and supportive caregiver. Through her experiences, Heather has learned that laughter and love are the key ingredients to overcoming any obstacle, and she continues to share her story as a beacon of hope for others.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Discover strategies for coping with caregiver trauma and embracing self-care.
Learn techniques for setting healthy boundaries with family members and healthcare providers.
Uncover the significance of connecting with supportive communities for caregivers.
Delve into the power of forgiveness and acceptance within the caregiving journey.
Explore ways to redefine your identity as a caregiver and prioritize personal well-being.

About Heather:

Heather lives a brutally beautiful life. What that means is that while she has experienced profound hardships, as many of you have, she found that by opening her heart to the pain and letting love fill the cracks in her heart, she has grown stronger & has found such joy and happiness despite the brutal moments life has given her.

The state of CO has recognized Heather for her pioneering work for family caregivers, CSU as a Hometown Hero, and nominated as a visionary caregiver and top caregiver program by caregiving.com and The Tandy Spirit Award and named the 2022 Success Women's Conference Top Influencer Award. Heather's true magic comes from her ability to bring authenticity, humor, and passion, and vulnerability, discussing sharing deeply personal stories of caregiving and the brutally beautiful moments in life. Heather's the kind of speaker where the listener will move through a range of emotions from tears to laughte

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Natalie learned that Jason's cancer treatment, while effectively slowing the disease's progression, was causing significant pain and side effects.

As she struggled to make sense of their situation, Natalie found herself reflecting on the concept of suffering and how it can bring people closer to God. Despite their challenges, she remained hopeful that their faith would see them through this difficult chapter in their lives.

Jason had two more radiation sessions and chemotherapy before completing his treatment, but the side effects were expected to get worse before they got better. In her blog post, Natalie asked for prayers for comfort and shared happy photos of their treatment schedule, reminding herself and her readers to focus on the positive moments amidst the hardship.

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Natalie had a wonderful day and couldn't wait to share her news. She was thrilled to report that Jason's cancer treatment had been successful, and they were now in the 85% of patients who responded well. Their radiation treatment would be ending next Monday, and they only had one more round of chemotherapy left before finishing next Tuesday. Natalie gave all the credit to God, noting that he had heard all their prayers and answered them.

Despite the progress they had made, Jason was still struggling with pain and side effects from the treatment. Nonetheless, Natalie was optimistic that the road ahead, though not easy, would be easier. She was grateful for the kindness shown to them by the team at MSK, which made a huge difference in their experience.

However, Natalie's joy was tempered by the loss of a close friend and colleague, Paul Baldwin, who had passed away from cancer. She reflected on his life and the impact he had on others, learning from his example and taking comfort in his peaceful passing.

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Natalie is an avid fan of all things romantic and enjoys indulging in various forms of media to satisfy her cravings.

This past weekend, she had a lovely time with Jason. They went grocery shopping together and spent their evenings snuggled up watching the heartwarming show Love on the Spectrum.

During a particularly special moment, they reminisced about their childhood memories and relished the opportunity to connect on a deeper level.

Sadly, their weekend ended on a sad note when they realized that Jason's ongoing cancer treatment had been affecting his ability to taste food. The discomfort and discouragement that come with his condition is a difficult pill for both of them to swallow, but they remain optimistic and committed to weathering this challenge together.

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Natalie shares that they were able to move into a larger apartment with better views, thanks to the kindness of Manuela, the operations manager at the aka residences. Despite a busy day with Jason undergoing a PET scan and Natalie packing up their belongings, the move went smoothly.

Despite some fatigue, Natalie is thrilled with the new apartment and its stunning views of the city. She expresses her gratitude for their support from friends, including a visit from her college roommate Susan, who brought them cards and gifts.

Natalie looks forward to spending a good weekend with Jason, including a visit to the hospital for his hydration session.

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Natalie shares that Jason is eating well and making progress, including being able to walk for longer distances. She also reflects on the kindness of strangers who have offered their support and the importance of gratitude in difficult times.

Natalie talks about the importance of self-awareness and strategies to reduce stress during a difficult time. She acknowledges her imperfections as a caregiver and commits to growth and forgiveness.

She shares their agenda for the day, which includes various medical appointments, and expresses gratitude to their supporters for helping them manage the challenges of cancer treatment.

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Natalie reports that Jason had a good day with no major issues to report. They started the day expressing gratitude to God, and Jason slept better and completed mouth exercises.

They also had a meeting with a nutritionist and enjoyed some good food. However, Jason's neck is redder from radiation, and he still struggles with smells and taste.

On the positive side, the medications are working for nausea, and his kidney levels are improving. They express their gratitude for the support they have received throughout this journey.

Natalie and Jason discuss the importance of hydration due to chemotherapy and radiation. They have a light schedule for the next day but are tired from finding routine in their appointments.

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Growing up as a military brat, Michele Houck has experienced numerous moves across the country, forming a tight-knit family tribe wherever they went. From being a barrel racer to a beauty queen, she has embraced life's challenges and reinvented herself multiple times. Michele's caregiving journey began at 16 when her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. Since then, she has been the primary caregiver for various family members, including her sister, father, and niece. Michele's life experiences have instilled in her the importance of family values and relationships, making her the perfect guest for today's episode.

As a young caregiver, Michele had to navigate the complex emotions of wanting her mother while providing care and support. In the quiet, intimate moments of caregiving, Michele found joy and happiness with her mother, a lesson she would carry throughout her life. Her story highlights the importance of family values and relationships as the foundation for caregiving and how these connections can be a source of strength and resilience in the face of adversity. With warmth and compassion, Michele's journey shows that love and support can make all the difference, even in the darkest hours.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Reinforce your caregiving base with deep insights into the role of family values and relationships.
Decode the complex world of caregiving dynamics to enhance your relationships and support network.
Find balance in managing expectations and acknowledging constraints in various caregiving situations.
Develop a resilient mindset and harvest personal growth from the enriching caregiving experience.
Investigate the double-edged sword of technology on the aspects of connection and disconnection in caregiving and society.

About Michele:

Michele Houck is a 25-year Marketing and Advertising veteran. She’s a marketer who loves disrupting startups like Heart Start, Vonage, and Invisalign, household names like Intel and P&G, and innovative health & wellness solutions with WebMD. She has a proven track record of success with global, entrepreneurial, and local brands that engage government, B2C, and B2B audiences.

She is a curious-minded goofball who has been a military brat, a band geek, a barrel racer, a beauty queen, a bartender, a bouncer, a floral arranger, and a mountain climber. She is a very proud Aunt.

She started her caregiver roles at 16 with her mother's first breast cancer diagnosis in 1984. Over the last 5 years, she's been the primary caregiver for her mother, her sister, her special needs sister, AND her father, all of who passed due to different cancers.

Connect with Michele:

Website
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Natalie reports that Jason has lost almost 10 pounds in the last seven days due to insufficient calories, leading to nausea and exhaustion. Dr. Dunn has prescribed three additional medications to help manage the nausea.

On a positive note, the cancer is responding well to treatment, and radiation treatment may end on June 20. They are also moving to a new apartment on the 14th floor to avoid noise and make it easier for Jason to rest.

Natalie reflects on caregiving's challenges, which involve managing medication, being patient and understanding, and keeping track of everything. Despite the difficulties, she remains optimistic and grateful for the progress made so far.

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This one is short and reflects on a difficult day where Jason was struggling with nausea and lack of sleep. Natalie discusses the challenges of being a caregiver on such days and emphasizes that it's okay to have a tough day and hope for a better tomorrow. She also acknowledges that cancer and other chronic illnesses are difficult to deal with and can cause the patient and caregiver misery. Despite the difficult day, Natalie remains hopeful for a better tomorrow and signs off, leaving readers with this message.

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Natalie discusses the challenges of waiting for appointments, tests, and treatments while also managing symptoms and food intake. Despite these difficulties, she emphasizes the importance of finding silver linings and experiencing joy in life, even during tough times.

Natalie shares a heartwarming story about a friend's mother who made homemade wonton soup for them, which was comforting during a difficult time. Initially feeling guilty for experiencing happiness while her husband is undergoing cancer treatment, Natalie ultimately decides to prioritize her emotional well-being to support Jason better.

The episode encourages listeners to find joy in the little things and live fully, expressing gratitude for their relationships, health, and blessings. The message of hope inspires listeners to embrace positivity and happiness, even during challenging times.

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In this episode, Jason had his radiation treatment at the proton center. While he was getting his treatment, I listened to some of our favorite soft rock love songs from the 70s and 80s and sang along. Afterward, we went for hydration, which involved drinking two liters of fluids to keep Jason's kidneys functioning properly.

We then had an MRI and a delicious lunch before heading home. Next week is going to be even busier with more radiation treatments and a scan to check if Jason's cancer is responding. We're staying optimistic and hoping for the best possible outcome.

We're planning a quiet and restful weekend filled with snacks and Netflix tonight. It's important to take time for ourselves and recharge. Here's to a peaceful weekend ahead!

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In entry 13, dated June 2, 2022, Natalie shares her and Jason's experiences on day three of their cancer treatments. The entry is titled "Seriously, That's a Side Effect?" because Jason endures a surprising side effect—persistent hiccups. Despite medication to help with Jason's nausea, it remains intense, and he struggles to eat.

Natalie spends the day running errands, buying specific food and drinks for Jason, and even working out to relieve stress. They both appreciate the immense kindness they have received from friends, family, and strangers, which has helped them through this challenging time.

Natalie's faith has grown stronger due to their journey, and she shares a message that comforted her: Joel Osteen's "Everything Serves His Plan." Although their experience has been difficult, Natalie remains grateful for the support and love they've received throughout their battle with cancer.

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In today's entry, Natalie discusses her journey with Jason as they begin cancer treatment. They have been together for 17 and a half years and married on October 10, 2015. Despite previous health challenges, they now face throat cancer together.

It is day two of their mission to fight cancer, and Jason is experiencing symptoms such as nausea and sensitivity to taste. Natalie does her best to support him, acknowledging her exhaustion but maintaining a positive attitude.

They visit New York Protons Center for radiation treatment and Memorial Sloan Kettering for chemotherapy. The excitement from the first day has worn off, making the process more prolonged and tiring.

Natalie continues to care for Jason, even going on a quest to find essential items and bottled water for him. Despite the challenges, they remain committed to supporting each other through this difficult time.

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Today, Natalie shares entry 11 from May 31, 2022, titled "Day One of Treatment." It was a long day for her, starting at 7 am with chemotherapy and radiation treatment. Despite the physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion, Natalie made it through with gratitude and support from everyone around her. She completed the first of 15 radiation treatments and the first of four chemotherapy days.

Natalie felt alone and overwhelmed during this journey, asking God, "Why me?" However, she realized she was exactly where she needed to be and found comfort in her faith. Jason's resilience and positive attitude helped put things into perspective. As they went through this process, they experienced kindness and generosity from everyone they met.

Chemo sessions included hydration, cisplatin administration, and further hydration to protect Jason's kidneys. Looking back, Natalie now understands that they were exactly where they were meant to be, leading her to share their story with all of you. Remember, our struggles always have a purpose, and we must keep moving forward. Stay tuned for Natalie's next update tomorrow.

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Bill Cohen, a dedicated caregiver with a decade of experience under his belt, shares his journey of caring for his late mother, Sheila. He's seen the challenges of being a male caregiver and understands the unique way men approach the role. As the owner of Cohen Caregiving Support Consultants, Bill has turned his personal experience into a passion-driven career, helping others navigate the complex world of caregiving. He's also an active volunteer with the Alzheimer's Association and runs support groups for caregivers.

Along the way, Bill discovered the unique challenges male caregivers face, as they often approach caregiving from a task-oriented perspective rather than an empathetic one. His own experiences led him to become the facilitator of support groups and delve deeper into the world of caregiving. Bill's passion for helping others in similar situations led to his encore career as a caregiving support consultant, focusing on the emotional and logistical support often lacking for caregivers. Through his work, Bill has become an advocate for Alzheimer's research and funding, dedicating himself to supporting both caregivers and their loved ones.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Explore the distinct challenges and methods employed by male caregivers.
Discover various resources and support systems available to caregivers.
Learn effective self-care tips to avoid caregiver burnout.
Delight in heartwarming stories, appetizing food, and personal accounts of Alzheimer's experiences.

About Bill:

Bill Cohen is a caregiver support group leader and speaker, an Alzheimer's Association volunteer, a Certified Senior Advisor (CSA)®, elder mediator, and the Cohen Caregiving Support Consultants owner.

Bill has completed multiple caregiving and aging courses through the Alzheimer's Association and the Society for Certified Senior Advisors™️, has a financial services and government background, and earned business degrees from Boston and Portland State Universities. A native New Englander, he has lived in the Portland, Oregon area for almost 39 years with his wife of over 40 years, Lori. He loves to try different cuisines, especially at Portland's renowned food carts and is an avid Boston sports fan.

Connect with Bill:

Website: Cohen Caregiving Support Consultants
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Facebook Community: Dementia Support Group for Caregivers with Bill Cohen
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In this entry, Natalie shares their Memorial weekend adventures in New York City. On May 30th, the day before Jason's treatment begins, they explore various attractions like St. Patrick's Cathedral, Rockefeller Center, and Times Square. They also reconnect with Natalie's college roommate, Susan, who acts as their tour guide.

Both Natalie and Jason feel anxious about the upcoming treatment, so they visit St. Patrick's Cathedral to pray for strength and guidance. Despite the looming challenges, they find solace in the beauty of the cathedral and the stories it tells.

Throughout the weekend, they also experience navigating the city's transportation, including a harrowing cab ride and practicing the subway route to Jason's radiation sessions. Ultimately, they decide to stick with Uber for their transportation needs.

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In entry nine from May 27, 2022, Natalie shares their experience practicing the route to Jason's radiation treatment sessions at the New York Proton Center using the NYC Metro. Despite initial confusion and concerns about the neighborhood, they successfully navigate the subway system. However, after discussing with a security guard at the proton center, they decide to use Uber for transportation due to safety concerns.

Natalie also shares fun moments from their day, like exploring the neighborhood, planning to find the best pizza, and meeting a bulldog named Stanley. She acknowledges that the real reason for their stay in New York is approaching, and she's determined to make the most of their time before treatment begins.

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In this quick continuation entry for May 26, Natalie shares more photos of their New York City experiences and discusses Jason's newfound interest in cancer awareness shirts. They discover a shirt with a vivid description of fighting cancer, which they plan to purchase. Despite some of the shirts being quite expressive, Natalie supports Jason's enthusiasm for them. She encourages listeners to visit her caregiver confessions website to see the shirts and promises to update again tomorrow.

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In entry eight of the Diary of a Caregiver series, dated May 26th, 2022, Natalie shares their adventures in New York City. They have been busy with doctor's appointments and getting acclimated to their new surroundings. Natalie goes on a grocery shopping trip, where she marvels at the organization of Morton Williams store and befriends the staff. She also visits Trader Joe's with Jason, which is uniquely built into a bridge. Despite their busy schedule filled with scans and appointments, they manage to settle into their new home and explore the city. Natalie appreciates the support from her sister Emily and enjoys sharing their experiences with listeners.

On their journey, they discover various grocery stores, including Whole Foods, and try to find their favorite spot to shop. They face challenges adjusting to the city's noise and trash pickup schedules but remain determined to make the most of their time in NYC.

Natalie also shares her struggles with cooking for Jason, who is experiencing changes in taste and appetite due to his cancer treatment. She admits to needing occasional escapes to maintain her sanity during this challenging time. Despite the difficulties, they stay hopeful and focus on finding joy in their surroundings, reminding themselves that cancer does not define them.

As Jason's first day of treatment approaches, they both experience fear and anxiety but look forward to the countdown to the cure and returning home to their loved ones. They continue to live life to the fullest and seek glimmers of hope in difficult situations.

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In entry seven of the Diary of a Caregiver series, Natalie shares their experience on May 24, 2022, as they arrive in New York City for Jason's cancer treatment. They had an early start, facing challenges like heavy rain and flooding in their basement. Despite the hurdles, they successfully reached New York and settled into their apartment at the AKA Residences, which partners with Memorial Sloan Kettering for cancer patients. Natalie unpacks their belongings and orders dinner to acclimate themselves to their new environment. She also shares their address for loved ones to send cards and support during this challenging time.

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In entry six of the Diary of a Caregiver series on the Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver podcast, Natalie shares her thoughts on May 23, 2022, the night before their move to New York City for Jason's cancer treatment. They are both experiencing a mix of emotions, but they remain hopeful and trust in God. Natalie's sister Emily has come to take care of their dogs, which was an answered prayer. They have packed and shipped most of their belongings to their new apartment, hoping to make it feel like home. As they embark on this new chapter, they appreciate the support from family, friends, and strangers. Natalie expresses her gratitude to God for his love and guidance. They rely on the Bible app for spiritual connection during the pandemic and find comfort in Psalms 23:4-5.

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Natalie shares an update on Jason's cancer journey through her caringbridge.com entry. They plan to move to New York City on May 24th for Jason's radiation treatment, which will start around June 2nd. They found a place to live with amenities and a shuttle to MSK. Natalie encourages Jason to eat all his favorite foods before losing his sense of taste due to treatment. She asks for continued prayers as they face the upcoming challenges. In the meantime, they focus on preparing their home and spending time together before leaving for New York.

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Becky and Logan Pickels faced a series of unexpected challenges when their lives took a turn for the worse. The couple found themselves in a whirlwind of health issues, with Logan being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis and their daughter Lexi suffering from a rare autoimmune disorder called PANDAS. Amid it all, they struggled to maintain a sense of normalcy for their family, pushing through physical and mental pain and relying on each other for support. Their journey showed them the importance of having a strong support system and recognizing the need for self-care, especially for caregivers. With Becky working PRN and Logan managing his illness while working remotely, they learned to communicate more effectively and prioritize their well-being. Through resilience and unwavering love for their family, the Pickels persevered as they navigated the complexities of their new reality.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Navigate the complexities of chronic illness and caregiving by learning practical techniques and habits.
Discover novel self-care methods to avoid burnout.
Explore the emotional landscape of caregiving and forge stronger relationships with loved ones in challenging situations.

About Becky and Logan:

Becky and Logan Pickels are a family of four, including their adorable and fluffy dog Auggie, who have faced the challenges of autoimmune diseases head-on. Their journey began with Hashimoto's Hypothyroidism, Celiac Disease, and Ulcerative Colitis, but they refused to let these conditions define them. Instead, they sought natural, diet-controlled ways to bring about positive change.

When their youngest daughter was diagnosed with PANS/PANDAS, an autoimmune encephalitis, they realized it was time to make changes and develop an entirely new lifestyle. They decided to "Rise Up" and take control of their present and future.

As a family, they transformed their mindset through dietary changes, addressing needs, and investigating environmental factors. After a year of effort they successfully created a new lifestyle and everyone is now in remission.

Connects with the Pickels:

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In this episode of "Diary of a Caregiver," Natalie shares her experiences on caringbridge.com about her husband Jason's cancer treatment journey. They complete pre-treatment testing and learn about the side effects of radiation. Natalie is grateful for the better treatment options at their chosen facility, MSK, which they believe is an answered prayer.

Natalie reflects on the universality of cancer, affecting people from all walks of life. Despite the challenges, she emphasizes the importance of hope, faith, and living life to the fullest. She encourages others not to sweat the small stuff and cherish moments with loved ones. As they prepare for Jason's treatment, they remain determined and hopeful.

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Welcome back to Diary of a Caregiver! Today we pick up with my May 4th journal entry, "No Scan Left Behind," where we share our busy day at Memorial Sloan Kettering, 30 days since our first visit. Jason underwent tests like EKG, PET scan, audiology screen, two MRIs, and a blood draw (10 vials, can you believe it?). The good news is that his heart and hearing are in great shape, but now he's radioactive from the dye! Oh, and we discovered COVID tests could be done with saliva – who knew?

During our time in NYC, we've had some interesting observations. We love walking the streets, enjoying the sights, sounds, and diverse food options. But not all dogs are friendly, and we found a "secure" bike that was anything but! At MSK, the staff and patients are incredible, and we even had an impromptu photoshoot with a gentleman from Turkey. While waiting for Jason, I made friends around MSK, spreading cheer and connecting with others because relationships are the oxygen of human development.

Despite the challenges, seeing Jason walk out of each visit smiling melts my heart. He's truly an amazing person who loves me for me, and I'm grateful for every moment. Our day was filled with wonder, curiosity, and great conversations, turning a rainy, dreary day into an afternoon and evening of pure delight. Join me next time for more heartfelt experiences on Diary of a Caregiver!

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In this episode, I'll tell you about Jason's first-ever experience on an Amtrak train and how it compares to flying. Spoiler alert: we loved it! We'll discuss the pros and cons of train travel, including the stress-free environment, the spaciousness, and the beautiful views. Plus, I'll share our thoughts on the not-so-great aspects, like the Wi-Fi situation (or lack thereof) and the many stops along the way.

But it's not all fun and games – we also dive into the serious stuff. We have a jam-packed schedule of medical appointments in NYC, including radiation simulation, audiology testing, and even some saliva testing (sounds like a blast, right?). To top it all off, we're on the hunt for a place to live, so stay tuned for updates and photos from our adventures in the Big Apple.

As always, we're grateful for your continued prayers and support. We know that God is with us every step of the way, and together, we're going to kick cancer's butt!

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Natalie shares a new chapter from my Diary of a Caregiver series. In this series, I open my heart and share my journal entries from CaringBridge.org. I hope that by sharing these stories, we can support each other on this incredible caregiving journey.

So, in our last episode, we talked about Jason's story. Today, we're diving into my journal entries from May 1st. These entries are all about the exciting and nerve-wracking preparations for our big move to New York City (around May 25th) for some pre-treatment procedures. Oh, and I've got a funny story for you too – it involves Jason, his big toe, and a garage door opener motor mishap. You won't believe what happened! 🤣

Stay tuned as we navigate the ups and downs of caregiving together, sharing the challenges and the lighter moments with honesty, humor, and vulnerability. Remember, we're all in this together, so let's find inspiration, understanding, and support in each other's stories.

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This series shares my journey as a caregiver, documented in my CaringBridge journal, which became a safe space for me to update friends and family, express my emotions, and find hope amid challenges.

While these entries may have tears, laughter, and vulnerability, I've always tried to remain hopeful and find the silver linings in every situation. By focusing on the positive, I could be the best support for Jason, even though I wasn't perfect, and neither are any of us caregivers. We simply try our best.

So, thank you for listening to my story, and I hope you find comfort, inspiration, and connection as we navigate this caregiving journey together. Let's embrace our imperfections and find strength in each other.

Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

Sisterhood of Care, LLC

Website: www.confessionsofareluctantcaregiver.com

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Join us for a special series for the month of June as Natalie reflects on her journal entries during Jason's treatment for cancer. This is a raw, unashamed, unafraid, and uncut short series that reveals what many caregivers go thru daily. We hope that you will join us for this special series and be inspired by Natalie's courage. Together, we can create a stronger community of support!

Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

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Website: www.confessionsofareluctantcaregiver.com

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Chris MacLellan is an inspiring figure in the world of caregiving. After caring for his partner, Richard, during his battle with a terminal illness, Chris was inspired to establish the Whole Care Network. In this place, caregivers can find support, connection, and understanding. With a strong background in social work and senior care, Chris is well-versed in the challenges caregivers face daily. He's also the author of "What's The Deal With Caregiving?" which tackles the different stages of caregiving. Chris will share how humor and positivity can help caregivers through difficult times, providing much-needed encouragement and guidance.

Chris, a former caregiver and social worker, found solace in the power of positivity and humor while caring for his late partner, Richard, who battled esophageal cancer. Chris and Richard's connection was strong, and they navigated the challenges of caregiving together. Maintaining open and honest conversations built a foundation of support and understanding, allowing them to find pockets of joy amidst their trials.

In this episode, you will:

Gain practical self-care strategies for caregivers to ensure mental and physical well-being.
Uncover innovative ways for caregivers to communicate effectively with doctors.
Discover the power of positivity and humor in overcoming the hurdles of caregiving.
Learn how to create valuable support networks for caregivers online and offline.
Embrace the importance of establishing trust in caregiving relationships through finding your unique "why."

About Chris:

Christopher MacLellan is affectionally known as the Bow Tie Guy in the vast network of family caregivers and is the founder and CEO of the Whole Care Network. Chris and his now-deceased partner were featured in a 2015 Pulitzer Prize-nominated story entitled “In Sickness and in Health: A Couple’s Final Journey,” which propelled him to write his book "What's The Deal with Caregiving and develop the Whole Care Network. The motto at the Whole Care Network is “helping you tell your story, one podcast at a time” because it is through story sharing where diversity meets the road to collaborate on a common cause, and our common cause is to supports caregivers, before, during and after caregiving ends. Now, Chris is Aging Gayfully!

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Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

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Erin Galyean's life was deeply affected by the loss of her father and sister to non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, and she turned her experiences into a powerful mission to help others. Leveraging her 20 years of pharmaceutical industry experience, Erin empowers caregivers to become champions for their loved ones, providing them with the support and guidance they need. As the author of "Badass Advocates" and an engaging professional speaker, Erin's dedication to helping caregivers navigate the challenging world of caregiving is truly inspiring.

When Erin's father was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, she was a 20-year-old college student struggling with feelings of guilt and helplessness. After her father's passing, Erin vowed never to experience that regret again. When her sister Megan was diagnosed with the same cancer 20 years later, Erin became her greatest advocate, leveraging her industry knowledge to navigate through the complexities of her sister's treatment. Erin learned the importance of seeking professional help, such as therapy, to cope with the emotional burden that comes with caregiving. By sharing her story, Erin hopes to inspire others to become strong advocates for their loved ones, turning past regrets into powerful lessons for the future.

In this episode, you will:

Discover the crucial role of advocacy in caring for a loved one's well-being.
Uncover effective communication strategies that bridge the gap between caregivers and professionals.
Learn how to find gratitude during grief and difficult situations.
Grasp the significance of building a strong support team for caregiving.
Recognize the importance of self-care and indulging in guilty pleasures to maintain joy.

About Erin:

Erin Galyean is a published author and professional speaker. In 2020, Erin published her first book Badass Advocate: Becoming the Champion Your Loved One Deserves. Badass Advocate, an information-packed and action-oriented book, teaches family caregivers how to manage a loved one’s health crisis. After losing her father, Mike, to Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma, Erin was determined to be an unstoppable advocate for her sister, Meghan, who was also diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma and a rare lung disease. With over 20 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, Erin was able to use her professional knowledge to ensure her sister received the best care.

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Cathy Sikorski's caregiving journey started with taking care of her beloved grandmother. But as she became the “go-to” person for all her family members and friends who needed help, she realized the complexities of caregiving. In this eye-opening confession, Cathy shares her practical experiences and the importance of having an elder lawyer by your side.

Becoming a caregiver for her nana was a defining moment in Cathy's life. Having grown up under her grandmother's care, Cathy felt a strong obligation to return the favor, even though she wasn't fully prepared for the challenges ahead. Her experiences and struggles as a caregiver led her to become an elder lawyer, focusing on the unique legal needs of caregiving families. Today, Cathy is a passionate advocate for caregivers, arming them with vital knowledge about their legal rights and how to fight for the proper care and resources their loved ones deserve. Through her work, she has touched countless lives, ensuring that those who need help receive the care and support they need.

In this episode, you will:

Uncover the hidden, legal aspects of caregiving and the advantage of using an elder lawyer.
Discover why obtaining legal documents and consulting professionals is crucial for caregivers.
Delve into the struggles and rewards of being a caregiver while learning why self-care is essential.
Explore the true financial impact of family caregiving, specifically for women.
Realize the significance of support networks, communities, and acknowledgment for caregivers.

About Cathy:

Cathy Sikorski, Esq. is a Speaker, Elder Lawyer, Author and Media Guest who unravels the caregiving crisis's complex financial and legal problems.She uses her caregiver experience and expertise to educate, entertain and elevate the conversation around work, money, aging, and caregiving. Cathy has written three books on this topic, including Who Moved My Teeth? Preparing for Self, Loved Ones and Caregiving; and her most recent: 12 Conversations: How to Talk to Almost Anyone About Long-Term Care Planning. Cathy has written and performed on caregiving for the Writers Theatre of New Jersey at Kean University during the Healing VoicesOnStage: Caregivers’ Stories and the West Chester Story Slam. She continues to provide national Keynotes and is featured on many television, radio, and podcast episodes. She has been a requested contributor to print and media, including Huffington Post, and AARP, and is a SheSource expert for the Women’s Media Center in Washington, D.C.

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Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

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Healthcare professional Cassie Abel brings over twenty years of experience to our discussion on caregiving's emotional challenges and the guilt that sometimes accompanies them. Cassie's caregiving journey with her mother, Carol, diagnosed with ALS in 2020, has shaped her outlook on caregiving. Carol inspired Cassie's love for healthcare, and when her health began to decline, Cassie stepped in to provide care, gaining firsthand experience with the challenges that many caregivers face. Cassie's insights make her a valuable resource for all.

Cassie vividly remembers her mother, a “bulletproof” woman who devoted her life to the nursing home industry. Cassie followed in her mother's footsteps and became a nursing home administrator. However, life suddenly turned when her mother was diagnosed with ALS. The emotional challenges and guilt began to weigh heavily on Cassie's heart as she balanced her career, family, and caregiving responsibilities. As her mother's health declined, Cassie experienced the heart-wrenching reality of watching the woman who had once been her pillar of strength gradually fade away. Cassie found solace in her blog, where she shared her mother's story, drawing strength from her mother's unwavering determination to live life to the fullest.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Navigate the emotional landscape and manage guilt associated with caregiving.
Recognize the crucial factors to consider when choosing dependable caregivers for your family members.
Master the art of juggling work, personal life, and caregiving tasks in harmony.
Understand the importance of self-care and mental health to ensure personal well-being during the caregiving journey.
Acquire knowledge and wisdom from past caregiving experiences to enhance your own approach.

About Cassie:

Cassie Abel resides in Vincennes, Indiana, with her husband, Scott, and their two children, Emma and Archer. With over 20 years of experience in healthcare leadership, Cassie primarily worked in the nursing home setting, starting as an Admissions Coordinator, moving to Executive Director, and then taking on a new challenge in the hospital setting. Cassie now serves as the Director of Patient Experience at the local hospital. In her role, Cassie works with providers and caregivers to achieve excellence in service delivery and leads the Patient Liaison department in addressing patient and family concerns. Cassie is an active member of her local Rotary, whose motto is “Service Above Self” – a passion she carries over into her personal and professional life. Cassie holds a bachelor’s degree in Public Relations and a license as a Healthcare Facility Administrator. Currently, Cassie is working towards her MBA and writing her first book based on her experience as a caregiver.

Connect with Cassie:

Twitter: @CassieAbel2

Instagram: @CASSIENABEL2

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Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

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When Janet Brennend devoted her life to caring for her daughter Leanne, she never expected the incredible twist of fate that would ultimately lead to Leanne's twelve years of independent living. But that was only the beginning of Janet's incredible journey - as she went on to help countless others reach their full potential and live independently, her unwavering commitment to independence and empowerment has become a lasting legacy.

Janet juggled her responsibilities and even returned to college to secure a better future for her family. Throughout this journey, she made it her mission to prepare Leanne for a life of independence. As she found love and remarried, Janet's commitment to her daughter's emotional growth and self-sufficiency became even more crucial. Over time, Leanne discovered her own voice and strength and eventually lived independently for nearly twelve years, a testimony to Janet's unwavering dedication.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Discover the path to independence for individuals with disabilities.
Learn the delicate art of managing caregiving duties while pursuing personal dreams.
Understand the crucial aspect of caregiver self-care for overall well-being.
Uncover the secrets to successfully maintaining long-distance relationships amid immigration obstacles.
Realize the significance of community partnerships in providing invaluable support for caregivers.

About Janet:

Janet Brennend has served in her current role as the Local Long-Term Care Ombudsman for over 21 years. She has provided advocacy services and supports for and on behalf of persons residing in long-term care settings and those 60 years of age and older who receive long-term care services and support in the community. She has worked with long-term care providers, long-term care recipients and their families, other advocates, and community-based professionals to enhance the quality of care and protect residents’ rights.

Throughout her career, she has advocated for the rights of individuals with disabilities and assisted family caregivers in accessing critical support services. Her notable accomplishments early in this advocacy role had been supporting changes within the local public schools for students with disabilities to access services for free and appropriate education.

Connect with Janet:

Website: www.nrvaa.org

Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

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Janet Brennend's journey as a caregiver began in childhood, a role she took on out of resilience and strength. But her true empowerment came when her daughter was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, leading her to advocate fiercely for her daughter's rights and those of other caregivers. Janet Brennend's story is filled with unexpected twists and turns, from a hardworking Appalachian family to an inspiring leader.

Janet's journey as a caregiver started when she was just a child, the middle of seven siblings. Born into a hardworking Appalachian family, Janet learned the importance of caring for others through various experiences. At the age of seven or eight, she was already taking care of her baby sister. As she grew older, her caregiving role expanded to several family members, including her father, who suffered severe burns in a plant explosion. Janet's strength and resilience were evident from a young age.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Master the art of juggling caregiving roles with work and personal life.
Champion the cause of individuals with disabilities through strong advocacy.
Expertly maneuver through benefits and services tailored for disabled loved ones.
Prioritize self-care for caregivers and build supportive networks.
Tap into resources designed for enhancing aging and home safety.

About Janet:

Connect with Janet:

Website: www.nrvaoa.org

Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

Sisterhood of Care, LLC

Website: www.confessionsofareluctantcaregiver.com

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When Licia Thompson began her caregiving journey, she thought she knew what to expect. But little did she know that through the unexpected twists of her father's health journey, she would discover the power of a shared experience and the importance of adapting to life's challenging situations. What will this newfound understanding bring?

Licia's journey as a caregiver began when her mother's health took a turn for the worse. She had always been her mother's partner and advocate, working together to navigate the complexities of healthcare and the myriad of treatments. Licia's mother was a strong, independent woman with the ability to orchestrate her own care, relying on Licia as her supportive copilot. Through this time, Licia gained valuable insights into the importance of resilience, determination, and knowing oneself. Her caregiving experience taught her valuable lessons about personal growth and the power of a strong support system.

In this episode, you will hear:

Effective strategies when navigating the caregiver role for divorced, terminally ill parents.
Uncover the secrets to balancing caregiving responsibilities in both your personal and professional life.
Realize the essential nature of self-care and finding support as a caregiver.
Learn the valuable lessons others have gained from their caregiving experiences for personal growth.
Uncover the available resources and benefits for caregivers, such as FMLA.

About Licia:

Licia Thompson has an extensive and noteworthy career in the insurance industry. After becoming a Claims Adjuster trainee at Safeco Insurance Company, she balanced her marriage and motherhood with a further career progression. Hired as an Assistant Claims Manager for Macy's, Inc., she later rose to become their Workers' Comp Director of Return to Work, Managed Care, and vendor relations while building their national Return to Work program and training personnel in human resources nationally on ADA compliance.

After leaving Macy's, Thompson worked for Amazon as a Senior Accommodation Disability Consultant with non-occupational corporate associates. This experience proved instrumental in inspiring her to launch her own business - Licia Thompson Coaching & Consulting LLC - as a certified Leadership Reinvention Strategist, helping both Workers' Comp and other leaders affected by divorce or caregiving redefine their values, vision, and thoughts so they can take action and thrive.

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Sisterhood of Care, LLC

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When Debbie Howard returned home to care for her mother, she was expecting just the physical demands of caregiving. Instead, she was thrust into a situation that tested her emotional strength, resilience, and boundaries. But with a newfound respect for her mother's autonomy, Debbie discovered the power of dignity and empowerment in her mother's final days. What did Debbie learn, and how did it shape her own life?

Debbie emphasizes the necessity of self-care by sharing her experiences and offering tips on incorporating self-care into daily routines. She suggests regular exercise, band workouts during TV time, and indulging in simple pleasures like trips to Walgreens or Trader Joe's. The conversation highlights the personal journeys of the hosts and their own self-care practices, emphasizing the critical role of self-care in a caregiver's life.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Master the art of navigating family caregiving dynamics while tackling medical leave depletion issues.
Discover the significance of self-care and humor in overcoming difficult caregiving situations.
Elevate care receivers by upholding their decision-making power and promoting autonomy.
Find solace in coping with post-caregiving grief and accessing professional support networks.
Harness the power of technology and engaging activities to enhance your caregiving journey.

About Debbie:

Through her 30+ years of work in Japan, Debbie translates consumer research into a clear strategic direction for global clients across various categories - including age-tech products and services. Also, a former caregiver on a mission to change the way the world looks at caregiving, Debbie’s work focuses on helping companies create more caregiver-friendly workplaces by supporting their employee caregivers while reducing the related risks of absenteeism, turnover, and future healthcare costs. For individuals, her offerings include curated resources to help navigate the many aspects of caregiving and a free annual self-care challenge.

Connect with Debbie:

https://www.thecaregivingcrisis.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbiehoward/

https://twitter.com/debbiethecarer

https://www.facebook.com/debbie.howard.5264

https://www.instagram.com/debbiethecarer/

The Caregiving Journey: Information. Guidance. Inspiration.

Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

Sisterhood of Care, LLC

Website: www.confessionsofareluctantcaregiver.com

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Despite growing up in a family where relationships and love were of utmost importance, Amy Goyer never expected her life to take the path of a caregiver. But through her journey, she prioritized self-care and mental health and empowered herself to provide compassionate and empathetic care for her loved ones. Little did she know this choice would lead her to an unexpected twist.

In this episode, you will:

Discover the significance of prioritizing self-care and mental well-being in the caregiving journey.
Grasp the art of open communication and initiating important conversations with loved ones early on.
Integrate humor into everyday caregiving routines to lighten the atmosphere.
Navigate the complexities of planning for the future, including end-of-life wishes and legal documentation.
Master the challenging task of balancing career and caregiving duties for a harmonious life.

As a caregiver, prioritizing self-care is essential for maintaining emotional, physical, and mental health. Burnout can be all too common, especially when the caregiving journey becomes more challenging. During our conversation, Amy shared her strategy for "filling her tank" as a caregiver: quick fill-ups, premium fill-ups, routine maintenance, and tune-ups. She believes incorporating a blend of all four types is crucial to maintaining her well-being while navigating her caregiving duties. Of particular importance are the quick fill-ups, as finding time for oneself can be especially challenging when caring for a loved one. Listen in as Amy shares her caregiver journey and the practical strategies you can incorporate to everyday activities.

About Amy:

Amy Goyer, author of Juggling Life, Work and Caregiving is a writer, speaker, and consultant specializing in caregiving and family issues. An often-quoted media authority, she has often appeared on NBC’s Today and has been interviewed by numerous media outlets. She is also a Certified Aging in Place Specialist with nearly 40 years of professional experience in aging at the local, state, and national levels. Amy’s work is the perfect fusion of her professional and personal experience. She is a passionate champion for family caregivers and has been one her entire adult life, caring for her grandparents, parents, sister, and other family members and friends.

Connect with Amy:

Amygoyer.com

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In a race against time, JJ, Natalie, and Emilie fight to overcome stigmas, regulations, and rejection to secure a caregiving community for their mom, in order to ensure she receives the best care.

"Everyone deserves equal care - be an advocate and fight for what is best for your loved one."

JJ, Natalie, and Emilie are three sisters who have experienced the difficult journey of placing their mom in a nursing home. They share their story on the Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver podcast, helping others understand the complexities of the aging process.

JJ, Natalie, and Emilie had finally made the gut wrenching decision to place their mother in a nursing home. While they believed that would be the most difficult part of the caregiving journey, boy were they in for a wide awakening!

Assured that 30 days would be more than sufficient to get their mother’s placement in a skilled nursing community approved, they get notice on the condo that their mother and sister Emilie had been residing. As moving day got closer and closer, and the denials kept coming in, they decided to take action and personally advocate for their mother's care. Through their research and understanding of regulations, they connected with an admissions person and built a rapport. After explaining the medical needs and circumstances, they got a yes to admit their mother the very next day. With a combination of persistence and empathy, they could get to their yes.

In this episode, you will learn the following:

How to advocate for a loved one in need of long-term care, including researching facilities and understanding the regulations
Recognizing the emotions you as a caregiver will experience throughout the caregiver journey..
The importance of not projecting your own expectations and beliefs for your caree’s living situation.

Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

Sisterhood of Care, LLC

Website: www.confessionsofareluctantcaregiver.com

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JJ, Natalie, and Emilie are sisters who have provided caregiving, either local or long-distance, to their mother since 2011. After a medical crisis in 2019, they realized that their mother could no longer live independently and have since been on a caregiving rollercoaster, having moved their mother five separate times in four years.

The sisters never expected to be caregivers for their mother, but then again, most never do. Just when they thought their problems would lessen by moving their mom in with sister Emilie, they only just began. Listen in as the sisters provide an update on their caregiving journey, one that ultimately resulted in the decision no adult child wants to make - placing their mother in a skilled nursing community.

"You go into this with good intentions. In our mind, we thought if she could get the duopa pump she could easily live in the community. Then Emilie could work, and life would go on like normal. We would later recognize our reluctance to accept the truth. Her Parkinson’s Disease had progressed to the point that no medication could supplement the support she truly needed."

In this episode, you will learn the following:

How the sisters would move their mom from setting to setting only to realize there were no “perfect” options.
The lessons learned from each placement.
How they finally accepted the truth and made the gut-wrenching decision to place her in a skilled nursing community.

Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

Sisterhood of Care, LLC

Website: www.confessionsofareluctantcaregiver.com

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Nicole Will was 15 years old when her grandma came to live with her family, which marked the beginning of many changes in her life. As her teenage years progressed, Nicole's mom was pulled in many directions between taking care of her children and her mother. Nicole had to work through complicated emotions as she experienced her mom's attention being divided between loved ones. These same emotions would resurface again when in 2006, as Nicole was pregnant with her first child, her aunt moved to Minnesota from California and needed care from her mother. To Nicole's surprise, her grandma and aunt both ended up in the senior living community where she worked. This gave her the unexpected gift of time with her mother as an adult. Despite the hardships, Nicole found compassion for her mother, who was trying to be there for everyone.

In this episode, you will learn the following:

1) How Nicole navigated the complexities of serving as both grandchild and teen caregiver for her grandmother as a 15-year-old.

2) The effects of her grandmother moving in on Nicole's relationship with her mother.

3) How Nicole's experience of caring for both her grandmother and aunt shaped her professional life and her relationship with her mother.

About Nicole:

Nicole Will is a passionate advocate dedicated to enhancing the well-being of the aging community. She collaborates and cheers on others, sharing their good work. As the founder of willGather, she provides valuable information and resources to older adults, family caregivers, and eldercare professionals. Additionally, Nicole hosts and produces the willGather Podcast: Navigating the World with Your Aging Loved One and in honor of her grandmother, founded Gigi Betty co. by willGather, a boutique gift shop raising money for family caregivers.

Nicole has over 20 years of experience in aging and senior living services. Inspiration from her close relationship with her grandmother led her to obtain a degree in Human Services: Social Gerontology with NCCAP certification. She served as Director at a large senior living community while leading her team to success. Additionally, she was part of the MAPA board and an adjuvant faculty member at the University of St. Catherine. Her hands-on approach continues to foster an understanding of family caregiver needs through advocacy efforts.

Connect with Nicole:

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Sisterhood of Care, LLC

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Cameron Huddleston’s personal and professional lives collided when her mother was diagnosed at age 65 with Alzheimer's Disease. She was 35 and mother of two young daughters, with a son added later in the journey! Because her mom was living on her own and Cameron lived closest, she stepped into the role of caregiver.

For the first two years after the diagnosis, her mother continued to live independently with Cameron's support and a paid caregiver, who spent a few days a week with her. Cameron moved her into her home when it became apparent that she was no longer safe living alone.

After two years, Cameron knew her mother needed more care than she could provide and moved her into a memory care facility. But, her caregiving journey didn’t end with her mother’s move as she oversaw her care, managed her finances, and visited her frequently.

In this episode, you’ll hear about Cameron’s caregiver journey, including her experience of finding an extra $50,000 account that she didn't know about and then almost losing the money. She shares how to find resources in the community and stresses the importance of finding manageable solutions along the way. Cameron would go on to write a book about the importance of having conversations about money while your parents are still young and healthy.

In this episode, you will learn the following:

What can be done to ensure financial security for a loved one with a medical diagnosis?
How to have difficult conversations about aging and finances with your parent(s), family members or loved ones?
Effective strategies for managing someone else's finances?

About Cameron:

Cameron Huddleston is an author, speaker, and award-winning journalist with over 20 years of experience writing about personal finance. She was inspired to write her book, Mom and Dad; We Need to Talk: How to Have Essential Conversations With Your Parents About Their Finances while caring for her mom, who had Alzheimer's disease. She realized how important it was for adult children to have money talks with parents before an emergency or health issue leaves them unable to manage their finances independently. Since her book was released in 2019, she has been helping families break the taboo of talking about money. She continues to do so as director of education and content at Carefull, the first service built to protect aging adults' daily finances.

Connect with Cameron:

Website: cameronhuddleston.com / getcarefull.com

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Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

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Amber Wilborne is a Southwest Virginia native, and business owner and has been married to Tim, the love of her life, and served as an amazing supporter during her caregiver journey. They have two teenage children and co-own their business. Amber is a member of her local Rotary club and serves communities worldwide. She also served as a caregiver to her mother, who fought breast cancer for over 24 years.

Amber's journey as a caregiver began when her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. Despite the struggle, Amber was determined to remain a strong support for her mother. With her husband's support, Amber cared for her mother while maintaining her regular routine with her children. When her mother's cancer returned for the final time, Amber placed her career on hold to care for her mother full time. Over the years, she supported her mother in a variety of ways but it was during those last two years that she learned the importance of saying "no" when needed. She also had to be honest with her kids and open up to her mother in ways she had never done before. Through this difficult experience, Amber learned to accept her emotions and trust the Lord's timing.

In this episode, you will learn the following:

How Amber attributes her mother's resilient spirit to help her fight off metastatic breast cancer for 24 years.
How Amber learned to balance caring for her mother while caring for her own family.
How Amber found solace in her faith while navigating the emotional turmoil of her mother's battle with cancer.

About Amber:

Amber Wilborne was born and raised in the Roanoke Valley of South Western Virginia. She is married to Tim Wilborne, and they are the parents of two amazing kids, one son, 16, and one daughter, 14. Both kids are active in their high school and attend the Burton Center for Arts and Technology. Amber and Tim have owned and operated their business, TW Controls, LLC since 2006. Both work with local industries and manufacturing companies offering a variety of work, from repairing machinery, building components, control panels, integration, automation, and wastewater. Recently Amber and Tim have added a training facility and troubleshooting courses for Maintenance Technicians in their field.

Amber is a member of her local Rotary club and active in her community and worldwide. She has traveled to parts of Africa through Rotary to see international projects. Amber enjoys being a Rotarian since Rotary shares many of the same passions.

Amber’s mother passed in June, 2022 from metastatic breast cancer. Her mother fought breast cancer for 24 years! Amber had the honor of taking care of and spending time with her mother for 2 years before she passed.

Connect with Amber:

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Joy Loverde is an Italian-American author, speaker, and caregiving expert. She has cared for over 10 people in her life, from her parents to ex-spouses and coworkers, and is a master at delegating, setting boundaries, and communicating.

Joy Loverde learned the importance of delegating, setting boundaries, and getting out of the middle of other people's relationships. When her elderly parents and coworkers needed help, she stepped up and learned to care for them without burning out. She put relationships first and learned to deal with guilt and grief. She realized that life is messier than Italians, that caregiving is God's work and that crying and laughing are both necessary for living.

In this episode, you will learn the following:

How to Master Delegating and Setting Boundaries in Family Relationships
How to anticipate Grief and Guilt in Caregiving Situations and to manage both!
How to Establish Trusting Relationships with Care Recipients to Solve Problems.

About Joy:

Joy Loverde has a reputation for being a path carver and visionary. She is the author of The Complete Eldercare Planner and Who Will Take Care Of Me When I’m Old?She has been quoted in the Wall Street Journal, TIME Magazine, New York Times, U.S. News & World Report, and Psychology Today among many others. She has been interviewed on the TODAY Show, Good Morning America, and NPR. Critics hail her work as “illuminating, eye-opening, and required reading for everyone over 40.”

Connect with Joy:

Website
LinkedIn
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YouTube
Blog

Books/E-Book/Audio:

Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and wherever books are sold worldwide.

Who Will Take Care Of Me When I’m Old?

The Complete Eldercare Planner

Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

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Who Will Take Care of Me When I'm Old?: Plan Now to Safeguard Your Health and Happiness in Old Age

The Complete Eldercare Planner, Revised and Updated Edition: Where to Start, Which Questions to Ask, and How to Find Help

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When Robin Weeks' father and brother were both diagnosed with terminal illnesses in 2011 and 2012, she stepped up to care for her mother, sacrificing her own career and financial well-being to provide a sense of comfort and compassion in her mother's final years.

"Caring for my mother was probably the most profound feeling of compassion I think I've ever had in my life. I don't think I've ever felt that much compassion for another human being." - Robin Weeks

Robin Weeks is a 20-year veteran of the personal development field, having worked with managers and executives. After her father's death in 2012, she began looking after her mother, eventually moving her to Virginia. Robin now shares her life experiences and lessons learned through her coaching and leadership development company, My Pivotal Point.

Robin Weeks cared for her dying father, then her mother, until her mother's passing in 2018. Weeks dedicated her time to her mom, often sacrificing her work and income. With her mother gone, Weeks felt lost and unmoored until she realized the profound impact she had made. She used her experience to help other caregivers, eventually becoming certified and creating a compassionate space for those in need.

In this episode, you will learn the following:

How Robin managed to care for her mother, who was diagnosed with a terminal illness and was given six months to live while also working and managing her own business.
Robin experienced a profound compassion for another human being while caring for her mother.
How Robin became a certified caregiving consultant and started looking into ways to serve other caregivers in a coaching capacity.

Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

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When Anne Kenny, a self-proclaimed workaholic physician, is forced to confront her mother's dementia and her own depression, she must learn how to balance her needs with her mother's care while navigating a difficult family dynamic.

"If you're doing the work, it's not going to get worse; it's going to get better. It may not feel great all the time, but it gets better." - Anne Kenny

Anne Kenny is a practicing physician for over 35 years and is the author of Making Tough Decisions about End-of-Life Care and Dementia. She is also a founder of Together in Dementia, which offers courses and consultation, and is a host of a blog about caregiving.

Anne Kenny juggled her work as a doctor, being a mother, and caring for her mother, who was starting to show signs of dementia. The time finally came when she and her sister had to take steps to ensure her mother’s safety. Anne found herself taking on too much, trying to see her mom daily, and her emotional range was very narrow. With the help of therapy and journaling, Anne was able to find balance, mend her relationship with her sister, and learn to ask for help. Anne ultimately learned to appreciate her time with her mom, even when it was difficult, and to take care of herself. In the end, Anne was grateful for all her mom's lessons.

In this episode, you will learn the following:

How a Nebraska winter led to an unexpected caregiving journey.
How Anne uses her own prescription pad to encourage self-care among caregivers.
How can one balance caregiving with filling their own soul.
How Anne’s mother’s dementia taught her how to receive care.
How caregiving allowed Anne to re-establish relationships and open her emotional range!

Learn More About Anne Kenny

Anne Kenny, MD is the author of Making Tough Decisions about End-of-Life Care in Dementia, published by Johns Hopkins University Press in September 2018 outlines care, emotions, and communication issues at end-of-life in dementia. In addition, she is Founder of Together in Dementia, that offers courses, consultation and hosts a blog focusing on issues common to Alzheimer’s and related dementias and caregiving. She is a Professor Emerita of Medicine with specialty training and board certification in Geriatric Medicine, and Palliative and Hospice care. She has been a practicing physician for 35 years

Connect with Anne:

Email: DrAnne@togetherindementia.com

Website: www.togetherindementia.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TogetherInDementia

Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

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Kristina Driscoll is an inspiring mother, wife, caregiver, podcaster, and Board of Directors member of Sanctuary One, an animal rescue organization in Oregon. She launched her podcast She's Brave in 2023 and helps women find their path to become brave, resilient, and live their most authentic lives.

"If I can do it, you can do it too. I always had faith that God was going to take care of my son, too, and that he was going to be okay. And he is now. He just graduated from high school. He's doing a gap year. He's doing some travel, some work. He's enrolled at Colorado College for the fall. He’s accomplished so much.”

Kristina and her husband, 24 years her senior, met on a hike, instantly connecting. After six months of dating, they married and soon had a son. Life was wonderful. Years later, Kristina noticed her husband repeating himself and forgetting things. After denial, Kristina and her family managed the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s as best as possible. Kristina jumped in and took on managing every aspect of their lives while her son and she became caregivers to her husband. After a crisis moment, she decided to move away from where they lived to be close to Kristina’s parents, who were a huge support. Her husband’s disease progressed and after 7 years of caring for him at home, Kristina made the difficult but courageous decision to move him to a facility to fully meet his ever increasing needs.

Kristina’s father spoke with her son sharing, “Although your father isn’t really around, you’ll be just fine.” They both would! In time, after her husband’s passing, Kristina would go on to find love again; and start her podcast with the goal of inspiring others by her brave journey.

In this episode, you will learn the following:

How Kristina coped with her husband's Alzheimer's diagnosis, managing the household and finances while caregiving for both her husband and young son.
How Kristina found her authentic self by embracing her journey.
Why Kristina firmly believes that “Community is Everything!”
How Kristina found her new normal, accepting what she could and could not change to find happiness.

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Learn More About Kristina Driscoll

Kristina Driscoll trained for a career in finance, working over 10 years in pension consulting and as. a financial advisor. She's a graduate of Pacific Lutheran University with a Bachelor's of Business Administration (BBA). Kristina is also on the board of directors for the animal rescue group Sanctuary One. In 2015 she built a cottage for FIV positive cats and continues to fully fund the cottage each year.

Connect with Kristina:

She's Brave Podcast
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Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

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After her daughter calls in a care emergency, Kimberly Whiter is forced to choose between her career and caring for the father of her children, who experienced a life-threatening health incident. Was there a choice? She chose both! Ultimately this decision would challenge her identity and redefine her definition of
care.

"My crisis response is I start operationalizing. So I go calm. I literally feel like everything in my body slows down. And I'm like, okay, here's what's happening. This is what needs to get done. Here's how I'm going to go about doing it."; - Kimberly
Whiter

Kimberly Whiter is the CEO and owner of Elder Care Solutions, a caregiver mentor, and the founder of the first caregiving colloquium. She is passionate about preventing the financial crisis millions of families face in long-term care and has experienced her caregiving journey through her daughter's early morning call.

Kimberly Whiter was accustomed to juggling work and motherhood, but she was suddenly thrust into a caretaker role when her daughter called her in a panic one morning. Her ex-husband had suffered a life-threatening seizure, and Kimberly had to drop everything to rush to his side. After a brain tumor was discovered, Kimberly had to manage her own emotions and those of her two daughters while navigating the medical and care economy. With strong antiseizure medications, a risky surgery, and chemotherapy, Kimberly managed to support her ex-husband and daughters, all while running a business as CEO. By the time COVID hit, her daughters were with her full-time, but her support systems had all fallen away. Most would want to throw in the towel but anyone who knows Kim knows that ”quit” isn’t in her vocabulary.
In this episode, you will learn the following:

How Kimberly Whiter is navigating the complexities of being a working mother while providing care in what seems like a constant crisis.
The strategies she uses to manage the emotional stress of caregiving.
How she juggled career, motherhood, and caregiving at the same time!

Key Takeaways:
1. Caregiving happens spontaneously, BUT you can plan for it.
2. Don’t try to excel at everything. Decide on the one thing you’re going to be awesome at today. Then celebrate it!
3. With caregiving, nothing can go as planned. Write your “To Do” list / daily agenda in pencil. This allows you to remove items without guilt!

Connect with Kimberly Whiter

Website
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Blog

Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

Sisterhood of Care, LLC

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In this episode, we’re talking with Consuela Marshall, who supported her mother, alongside her siblings, for years before she eventually went and moved her into a small, assisted living home. But this wasn’t just any home! It was an assisted living home that she started in preparation for her mother’s eventual move.

Consuela talks with the sisters about her experience caring for her mother, locally to long-distance and everything in between. At times, emotions were high as her mother would ask for another sibling to serve as her primary caregiver. Feelings of rejection would creep in but over time,

Consuela realized it was she herself that was for those feelings to impact caregiver experience and relationship. She decided to take back control and shifted her thinking as she knew this was what God had called her to do. And she shares, “When He calls, you gotta figure out how to make it work”. And well….that’s the truth!

Key Takeaways:

· If you feel called to care for another, don’t deny the feeling. Figure out how you’re gonna do it and then do it!

· When you feel out of balance, find the things/activities/people that help you re-establish your balance.

· Everyone shows up differently. Siblings, family members and friends will “show up” to help in their own way. Placing your expectations of what you think they should do versus what they can actually do will leave you feeling disappointed and angry.

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Learn More About Consuela Marshall

Consuela Marshall is an Occupational Therapist by trade and a graduate of Louisiana State University Medical Center, School of Allied Health. She had a strong desire to work as pediatric OT after the birth of her daughter who had physical limitations and required OT services, but that was only the start of her journey.

Connect with Consuela Marshall

Website: https://www.findingafoothold.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/findingafoothold/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FindingAFoothold/

Linked In: http://www.linkedin.com/in/consuela-marshall-3a136a1b9

YouTube: caregiversfindingafoothold5095

Podcast URL: https://www.findingafoothold.com/podcast

Blog URL: https://www.findingafoothold.com/blog

Other: Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTRe8NvCR/

Pintrest: https://www.pinterest.com/CaregiversFindingAFoothold/

Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

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Have you ever said to yourself, “Who’s got time for cancer when there’s so much work to do?”

In this episode we’re talking with middle sister Natalie Elliott Handy, who lovingly refers to herself as “yellow mustard” to her “grey poupon” older sister, JJ. Since childhood, Natalie has been the most outgoing and outspoken of the three sisters. Similar to her siblings, she has a passion for serving others; having over 24 years experience working with children, families and individuals in need of mental and behavioral health services.

Natalie talks with sisters JJ and Emilie about the day she found out her husband Jason was suspected to have cancer, an appointment she chose not to attend due to an “important” meeting. Natalie shares how she initially thought it would be “easy to navigate the system” based on her past experiences in the healthcare field but boy was she wrong.

Listen in as Natalie shares the blessings she and Jason experienced along the way as they navigated the highs and lows and the twists and turns of Jason’s cancer journey. Natalie proudly talks about how she “found God” in New York City, and professes, “my husband’s cancer saved me”.

She states, “I’ll take the daily stressors of being a CEO to that of a caregiver any day!” But every day wasn’t really so bad as Natalie goes on to share how she found glimmers of hope in the support she received from family, friends and through the kindness of strangers. Trust us, you’ll be shocked at the number of times one person can go to Trader Joe’s and Morton Williams grocery store in one day! But hey, everyone’s got their “go to” strategies for staying sane!

Key Takeaways:

Don’t be afraid to share our feelings of self-doubt and insecurities with others
Remember, “No one asked you to work that hard”. If they do, are you really in the right place?
Allow others to support you. You are not in this alone, nor should you be!

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Learn More About Natalie Elliott Handy

Natalie Elliott Handy, MSW, is a seasoned healthcare executive with a passion for serving others. Natalie has over 24 years in the health and human services industry, she has worked with children and their families, partnering with local and state level government agencies and community organizations, to meet critical mental and behavioral health needs.

Connect with Natalie Elliott Handy

Linked In: linkedin.com/in/natalie-elliott-handy-

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/natalie.elliott.3760/about

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natalie.elliott.3760/

Blog: https://www.confessionsofareluctantcaregiver.com/blog

Email: natalie@sisterhoodofcare.com
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Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

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Have you ever thought, “I don’t live nearby but my sibling does. Yeah, they’ve got it. But shouldn’t I do more?”

In this episode we’re talking with Laurette Foggini, a daughter, sister, caregiver and so much more. Laurette Foggini has worked in eldercare for 14 years assisting 100’s of families throughout Northern California. Her qualifications and certifications are numerous and include Certified Care Manager, Certified Senior Advisor, Senior Fitness Specialist. But with all the professional experience, Laurette says she has learned more during her personal caregiving experience than in the 14 years of caring for others

Listen in as the sisters talk with Laurette about how, since early 2022 she’s been traveling back and forth between California and New York to help her brother provide the best care for their 93-year-old mother. Laurette shares her transition from long distance caregiving to shared care with her brother. Their bond in caring and support for one another makes some of the hardest dementia moments livable and laughable.

Key Takeaways:

As a live-in caregiver, make the space comfortable for you too!
Find the silver lining in the everyday activities. Caregiving can be tedious but finding the little things that bring you joy can be the difference between laughter and tears.
Don’t shy away from taking moments to yourself to enjoy some guilty pleasures. It’s amazing how a store bought cup of joe can change your day!

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Learn More About Laurette Foggini

Laurette has worked in eldercare for the past 14 years in Northern California. Over the course of her career, she has assisted hundreds of families caring for loved ones facing challenging health issues. Together she helps them identify needs, create care plans, connect to resources and arrange in-home care with professional caregivers.

As a natural storyteller with a love for children’s books, Laurette wrote and published The Song in Lola’s Heart, about caregiving for someone with dementia. The main character, Lola, is 6 and ¾ whose best friend is her grandmother, Babu (short for babushka). The Song in Lola’s Heart can be purchased for $9.99 on Amazon.

Connect with Laurette Foggini

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/laurette.foggini?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Linked In: http://linkedin.com/in/laurettefoggini

Book: The Song in Lola's Heart; can be purchased on Amazon

Other: Facebook Page for Book: https://www.facebook.com/TheSonginLolasHeart?mibextid=LQQJ4d;

Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

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Have you ever thought, “I don’t have a choice? It’s my responsibility. I’m the oldest.”

In this episode, we’re talking with JJ Elliott Hill, the oldest of the trio of sisters. She’s the peacekeeper. The responsible one ensuring Natalie and Emilie remained alive. A seasoned executive and business owner, JJ’s career path had her spend her first 17 years in the finance industry and the most recent 12 years as a business owner in the real estate, manufacturing, and retail sectors.

Always the people pleaser, JJ shares the impact of her self-imposed pressure of ensuring “everyone has exactly what they need” – mom, sisters, husband, family, and customers- on her personally and professionally. Hear about the final breaking point, when JJ finally recognized that she couldn’t make everyone happy – and accepted it. You won’t want to miss it!

Key Takeaways:

· Doing the right thing can be hard, both physically and emotionally. Be proactive in developing your own self-care plan so you can be your best You!

· Don’t let you past experiences dictate your future. You choose your day every morning.

· Confidently ask for help. You don’t to do this alone.

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Learn More About JJ Elliott Hill

J.J. Elliott Hill trained for a career in finance, working over 17 years consulting with business and commercial clients. In March 2013, she found herself downsized, jobless and disinterested in furthering a career in banking. Following a few months of self-pity, she partnered up full-time with her fiancé to turn their basement hobby shop into a retail store in Greensboro, NC. By November 2013, she was selling Nemo and Dory for a living! Over the next 4 years, the business grew from a small, rented space to a 10,000sq ft building purchased to operate the aquarium retail, service, and custom design company.

She spent the next 12 years as a managing partner for the retail and service company, along with a manufacturing start-up, two residential rental companies, and a commercial real estate company – all at the same time. In August 2022, the aquarium retail store was sold, and a new business in the wholesale fish collection was opened in Florida.

She calls home base the Florida Keys with her husband, Dexter, and their dog, Oscar. But much of her heart is in North Carolina with her grandsons, Eli & Tommy.

Connect with JJ Elliott Hill

Linked In: linkedin.com/in/jj-elliott-hill

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1167726745&sk=about_overview

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/j.j._elliott/

Blog: https://www.confessionsofareluctantcaregiver.com/blog

Email: jj@sisterhoodofcare.com

Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

Sisterhood of Care, LLC

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Question - Have you ever come to your breaking point? Reached a point when you can no longer keep up the facade of having a “perfect job”, “perfect family”, or “perfect life”?

In this episode sister Natalie Elliott Handy continues her caregiver story. Now on the other side of the infamous “Day 6”, Natalie shares how she had to re-prioritized her life and placed God, herself, Jason, family and friends before her commitment to career.

Listen in as Natalie shares with JJ and Emilie about the moment she realized she was using work to avoid the areas of her life where she didn’t feel “as successful”; and how this avoidance ultimately impacted every aspect of her life.

She goes on to talk about the caregiver grief she experienced upon returning home from New York City, and the steps she took to overcome feelings of loss and emptiness to find joy in the most unexpected place - Starting a podcast, with her sisters, with the sole purpose of helping other caregivers like her!

Key Takeaways:

Don’t be surprised when you experience a sense of loss at the “end” of caregiving.
Caregiving changes you! What will you do with your experience?
Every person you meet has a caregiver story!
Talking about your caregiver journey will not only help others, but heal you too!

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Learn More About Natalie Elliott Handy

Natalie Elliott Handy, MSW, is a seasoned healthcare executive with a passion for serving others. Natalie has over 24 years in the health and human services industry; she has worked with children and their families, partnering with local and state level government agencies and community organizations, to meet critical mental and behavioral health needs.

She takes pride in being seen as a mental health concierge, helping families and agencies navigate the system to find the most appropriate service. She believes in the power of advocacy, using her voice and position to bring macro level change on the local, state, and federal levels, serving on committees, task forces, planning groups, and boards. In August 2022, she was honored to be appointed by Governor Glenn Youngkin to serve on the State Executive Council for Children’s Services.

Natalie currently lives in Roanoke, Virginia, with her husband Jason and fur children, Winston the Bulldog and Daisy the Beagle.

Connect with Natalie Elliott Handy

Linked In: linkedin.com/in/natalie-elliott-handy-

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/natalie.elliott.3760/about

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natalie.elliott.3760/

Blog: https://www.confessionsofareluctantcaregiver.com/blog

Email: natalie@sisterhoodofcare.com
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Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

Sisterhood of Care, LLC

Website: www.confessionsofareluctantcaregiver.com

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Welcome to the Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver Podcast! Have you ever thought, “Caregiving can’t really be that hard, right?”

In this episode we’re talking with Kandis Draw, a daughter, sister, caregiver and so much more.

The sisters talk with Kandis about how she was thrown into the caregiving world at 30 years old after her mother's stage 4 cancer diagnosis. On the same day, she became a parent to her 8 and 12-year-old siblings. Kandis shares a young life interrupted by caregiving, how the journey created a mission, and how some words of healing can go unspoken.

Spoiler Alert: What was truly unexpected was how difficult rejoining the workplace would be after eight years of caregiving for her mother and siblings.

Listen in on how Kandis turned those feelings of rejection and loss into action, becoming a successful advocate on the local, state and federal level. No one can miss Kandis’ steadfast passion and commitment to help others and we’re all better for it.

Key Takeaways:

Caregiving is a journey you won’t understand until you’re in it.
Find the gratitude in the journey
Identify a group of supportive friends
Alone time is invaluable. Give yourself permission to have it!

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Learn More About Kandis Draw

Kandis Draw lives in Chicago, IL and works as a Community Education Associate for the HAP Foundation, with a concentration in Chatham & Englewood, where she provides Community Education surrounding end of life issues. Most recently, she was appointed to the Illinois Commission for Gynecological Cancers. She is also a contributor for Caregiving.com, which honors family caregivers and former caregivers as beacons of hope. Kandis was recently awarded the 2022 CHW Section Leader award from the American Public Health Association. She has also been featured across several podcasts, including Bump in the Road, Black Cancer, We Have Cancer, My Cancer Story Podcast, and most recently WillGather Podcast.

Connect with Kandis Draw

Linked In: linkedin.com/in/kandis-draw

Other Helpful ResourcesLinks:

https://cancerwellness.com/essays/caregivers-supporter-ovarian-cancer-kandis-draw/

https://twistoutcancer.org/art/kandis-draw-andrea-picard/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7dlXfac-oao

www.ignitehopecandles.org/kandisdraw/

Advocacy Work:

https://ocrahope.org/2020/06/drawing-upon-strength-speaking-her-truth-meet-an-advocate-leader/

Black Cancer Podcast:

Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

Sisterhood of Care, LLC

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Have you ever thought, “When God calls my number, am I really going to step up to the challenge? YES!”

The youngest of three Elliott sisters, Emilie has always been a natural born caregiver. From early childhood, caring for baby dolls and animals, to adulthood where she operated her own daycare center, and ultimately serving as mom to three amazing children, her passion for caring for others has no bounds.

In this episode, Emilie takes the lead in sharing her caregiving journey with her sisters JJ and Natalie. Her story reflects the role(s) so many of you have traveled in your own caregiver journey. She’s checked off serving as long-distance caregiver, close-by caregiver and of course, most recently, live-in caregiver to her mother, Connie. She has been a sandwich caregiver, caring for both her mother and children at the same time.

It was the most recent change in caregiver role, that of a live-in caretaker, where she’s found the most unexpected surprises. Namely, navigating the ups and downs that come with the role reversal between parent and adult child.

Listen in as Emilie talks with her sisters about the challenges, and even push back, she’s experienced as roommate and caregiver to Connie. She discusses the difference between raising your children to that of supporting her mother. From establishing new rules to setting “Elliott” household expectations to ensure everyone’s safety, you’re sure to relate and learn from experiences.

Key Takeaways:

Don’t be afraid to set rules for the household. Establish rules with a goal of mutual agreement and most important, respect as the foundation.
Although you may be the “child” in the parent/child relationship, remember, your voice matters and carries equal weight in the decision making process.
The importance of self-care cannot be overstated. Find the activity that centers you and do it daily, and if needed, hourly!

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Learn More About Emilie Elliott

Emilie Elliott was born to be a caretaker. From age 8 when she brought home the stray dog from the bus stop to the guinea pig she taught to “squeak” when he was ready for food, Emilie has always cared. She left college to marry and over the next five years had two sons and a daughter.

As a military wife, she became licensed to operate a home daycare and continued her calling of care for another 4 years. Life took a turn and after divorcing she returned with her children to Tennessee. She worked with the County government for over 10 years.

Connect with Emilie Elliott

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100080125263784&sk=about

Blog: https://www.confessionsofareluctantcaregiver.com/blog

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Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

Sisterhood of Care, LLC

Website: www.confessionsofareluctantcaregiver.com

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Have you ever thought, “This IS good enough and I really don’t care what others think! Well, maybe a little”

In this episode, oldest sister JJ Elliott Handy continues her caregiver story from episode #1 - You’re in Charge: Society’s Expectation of the Oldest Child. Listen in as JJ shares with her sisters how she could no longer let perfect be the enemy of good and the strategies she incorporates daily to give herself the same grace she so freely offers others.

Key Takeaways:

· You’ve got to have a difficult conversation with our parents and/or care recipient! To be effective, you need to know the Who, What, When, & Where!

· You will not be perfect. So go ahead and forgive yourself – past, present and future!

· Don’t let great be the enemy of good. Some days, you need to say to yourself, “This is/was good and that’s enough!”

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Learn More About JJ Elliott Hill

J.J. Elliott Hill trained for a career in finance, working over 17 years consulting with business and commercial clients. In March 2013, she found herself downsized, jobless and disinterested in furthering a career in banking. Following a few months of self-pity, she partnered up full time with her fiancé to turn their basement hobby shop into a retail store in Greensboro, NC. By November 2013 she was selling Nemo and Dory for a living! Over the next 4 years, the business grew from a small, rented space to a 10,000sq ft building purchased to operate the aquarium retail, service, and custom design company.

She spent the next 12 years as a managing partner for the retail and service company, along with a manufacturing start-up, two residential rental companies, and a commercial real estate company – all at the same time. In August 2022, the aquarium retail store was sold and a new business in wholesale fish collection was opened in Florida.

J.J. received her Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Hollins College and her Master of Business Administration in Executive Management Studies from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She is a candidate for the CCC, CCE and CCF Certificates from The Caregiving Years Academy in December 2022.

She calls home base the Florida Keys with her husband Dexter and their dog, Oscar. But much of her heart is in North Carolina with grandsons, Eli & Tommy.

Connect with JJ Elliott Hill

Linked In: linkedin.com/in/jj-elliott-hill

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1167726745&sk=about_overview

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/j.j._elliott/

Blog: https://www.confessionsofareluctantcaregiver.com/blog

Email: jj@sisterhoodofcare.com

Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

Sisterhood of Care, LLC

Website: www.confessionsofareluctantcaregiver.com

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Welcome to the Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver Podcast! Have you ever said, “Wait, What? You sold the house and you’re moving here when?”

In this episode we’re talking with Bonnie Chavez, only child and primary caregiver to her parents. But she’s so much more!

Bonnie Chavez was born and raised in a small town in Southern New Mexico. She was the first in her family to receive degrees and is now the CEO and Founder of Building Beloved Communities, a business consulting firm providing community-centered business solutions.

As a Latina woman who values family, roots, heritage, and culture; Bonnie was confident she would care for her parents as they aged. But when they decided to sell her childhood home and move to Virginia, that was a big surprise! One day she was buying a house in Roanoke and it seemed like only the next her parents were selling their home in New Mexico and moving in!

Listen in as Bonnie shares her adventures in caring for her aging parents with the sisters. We can confirm Bonnie’s own description of the journey, sharing that “it’s hilarious, scary, endearing, annoying, and beautiful. As an only child in this Mexican family, there are expectations - there is culture to honor. It's a ride."

This adventure in Caregiving is one you can't miss!

Key Takeaways:

Faith keeps Bonnie anchored. Know your anchors and go to them every day.
Personally, save now for the unexpected as it will come sooner than you think.
Together with your care recipient, establish how the future will look for them and you. Then…plan, plan, plan!

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Learn More About Bonnie Chavez

Bonnie Chavez is the CEO and founder of Building Beloved Communities, a business consulting firm providing community-centered business solutions. Born and raised in a small town in Southern New Mexico – she went on to the University of British Columbia to earn a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a minor in marketing - the first on both sides to get a bachelor degree. She worked for a large national nonprofit in the healthcare industry for 7 years where she then obtained a master’s degree in business with a minor in economics (the first in her family on both sides to get Master's level). Bonnie is a proud lesbian, Latina woman who values her family, roots, heritage, and culture.

Connect with Bonnie Chavez

Website: http://www.buildingbelovedcommunities.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bonbonchavez/about_overview

Linked In: linkedin.com/in/bonnie-chavez-33070542

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Connect with the Sisters

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConfessionsOfAReluctantCaregiver

Instagram:

Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

Sisterhood of Care, LLC

Website: www.confessionsofareluctantcaregiver.com

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Have you ever thought, “How can anyone do this alone? There’s got to be a better way!”

In this episode we’re talking with Mike George, a father, husband and caregiver, who shares how he and his wife recognized they had to create a way to support their son with disabilities and be there for their children and themselves. And that’s what they did!

Over time, using their caregiver support formula, they’ve grown Ben’s support team to a group of six employed professionals who allow all members of the family to do more than just exist but to experience a true quality of life!

The sisters talk with Mike about how he helps family caregivers go from feeling alone, fearful, and uncertain to becoming confident, empowered champions. He knows the road well… He has been a caregiver for 30 years.

His caregiving journey began in June of 1992, with the birth of his third child, Ben. An hour after he was born, Mike and his wife were told Ben was very sick and may not live the day.

BUT Spoiler alert - BEN did survive and learn to walk with lots of support. He uses a communication device to speak, and in 2019 became a university graduate..

Key Takeaways:

There are limits to how much one person can do. You must come to a place where you do more than exist. You must have a quality of life too.
Don’t take “No” for an answer. Keep going til someone says “Yes”.
Start where you need the most help. Then build from there.
It’s easy to get stuck in daily frustrations. Remember to reflect on how far you’ve come.

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Learn More About Mike George

Mike George helps family caregivers shift from feeling alone, fearful, and uncertain to becoming confident, empowered champions. A caregiver himself for 3 decades, Mike intimately understands the burdens of supporting the primary care of a loved one. But he also knows the tremendous fulfillment it can bring. This lived experience was the inspiration behind the creation of The Caregiver Support FormulaTM and The Soaring Families WayTM – proven models that guide families in designing the home care experience they deserve. He is a speaker, author, and co-founder of Soaring Families – the hidden universe of family caregivers you didn’t know existed.

Connect with Mike George

Website: https://www.soaringfamilies.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soaringfamilynation

Linked In: linkedin.com/in/mikeg-bmg

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@soaringfamilies6970

Online Course: The Caregiver Support Formula TM and The Soaring Families Way TM

Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

Sisterhood of Care, LLC

Website: www.confessionsofareluctantcaregiver.com

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Have you ever thought, “This isn’t fair. Don’t I deserve happiness?”

Sue Ryan has an amazing professional history with more than thirty years working with over 700 organizations and many industries helping them navigate significant change. And at the same time, for nearly four decades, she has taken on the many roles of caregiving support for family and loved ones.

Sue openly shares with the sisters her feelings of frustration and fear which are all too familiar for many caregivers. Her discovery of confidence, balance and support is a journey we all can learn from. Her goal for caregivers is to learn faster than she did, know they won’t be alone, and feel empowered to navigate their journey.

Listen in as Sue speaks about her current journey with her husband Jack, an Alzheimer's patient, and her ability to "Look at him each day, meet him where he’s at, assess what he has access to, and share time with him from there.”

Sue goes on to say, “I stay very involved in his (her husband Jack) care in my roles as primary caregiver for some responsibilities and care partner with the team at the community where he lives.”

You can't miss the wisdom and peace her words bring.

Key Takeaways:
Self-care is not selfish but is self love
Meet your care recipient where THEY are and without judgment
Love yourself. Give yourself grace. And don’t assume you can do it all!
You choose your perspective every morning
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Learn More About Sue Ryan

Sue’s mission is to empower and embolden individuals to maximize the opportunities and potential change will bring. As a speaker, change strategist, author, executive coach, caregiving coach and mentor, she lives this through two passions of her purpose. She guides and inspires leaders and emerging leaders committed to business growth and next-level leadership to be great leaders of themselves and others. She guides non-professional caregivers to become confident, balanced, and supported in all phases of their caregiving
Journey.

Connect with Sue Ryan
Website: https://www.sueryan.solutions/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sueryansolution
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sueryansolutions/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/suearmstrongryan
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suearmstrongryan/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sueryansolutions
Blog URL: https://sueryan.solutions/blog/
Books/E-Book/Resource: https://tinyurl.com/5-Steps-Book-on-Amazon
Online Course: The Caregiver's Journey (for non-professional caregivers); https://sueryan.solutions/course/

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Connect with the Sisters

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConfessionsOfAReluctantCaregiver
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ConfessionsReluctantCaregiver
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/confessionsofareluctantcaregiver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sisterhoodcare
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/sisterhoodofcare/
Website: https://www.confessionsofareluctantcaregiver.com/
Email: info@sisterhoodofcare.com

Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

Sisterhood of Care, LLC

Website: www.confessionsofareluctantcaregiver.com

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We combine the power of relationships and technology to relate, educate, inspire, and provide resources to individuals of all ages who are desperately seeking how to support their loved ones while also maintaining their sense of self and sanity.

Our goal is to instill hope by permitting caregivers to share their thoughts and feelings in a safe and nurturing place. A judgment-free space where caregivers can be their most authentic selves, confessing their truths without shame or fear of rejection. Come as you are and leave with a toolbox of resources to meet the needs of those you serve and yourself. Welcomed and embraced into the Sisterhood of Care.

Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

Sisterhood of Care, LLC

Website: www.confessionsofareluctantcaregiver.com

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