How did you become the caregiver for your loved one?
I was 10 when my mom got sick and when I was 19, I stepped into the primary caregiver role to give my dad more time on the farm.
What is the hardest thing about being a caregiver and the most rewarding thing?
Hardest: not feeling like I’m quite doing enough. Rewarding: knowing that what I do allows mom to stay in her own home with my dad.
What advice would you give to other caregivers?
Be easy on yourself. You’ll make mistakes but you’re only human and long as you are doing your best then nothing more can be asked of you.
In ten words or less, what has caregiving taught you?
Even the smallest steps are positive leaps forward.
Describe a situation where being a Fearless Caregiver helped you succeed?
My mom was at local ER and they wanted to admit her, I said “she goes to Mayo Clinic” doc: “We can offer the same level of care”, I stood up and said “No you can’t and you won’t screw her up as proof, get her to Mayo. NOW!”
We want to hear your story! Why? Because your story matters. Have you ever listened to someone talk about their life and thought ‘Oh, someone else has been through that, too? I thought it was just me!’ Every story shared is a chance to aid another caregiver and help them feel less alone.
We hope this information is helpful to you in the important work you do as a family caregiver.
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