Heart, Hope, and Hurdles: A Caregiving Story
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Contact Information for Denise:
Email: denise@careyearsacademy.com
Phone: 773-343-6341
Links:•
Denise’s Books: http://bit.ly/caringbooks
Caregiving Reflections, a weekly newsletter: https://denisebrown.substack.com/archive
Caring Our Way: https://join.caringourway.com/
The Caregiving Years Training Academy: https://www.careyearsacademy.com
The Wall Street Journal: https://www.wsj.com/articles/these-self-care-strategies-can-help-caregivers-cope-with-burnout-11640782803?st=37dob9tjnjt4tke&reflink=desktopwebshare_permalink
Main Theme: Embracing the Journey and Advocacy of Caregiving
1. The Beginning and Intensification of Caregiving
Denise’s journey began in 1990, but it really ramped up in 2004 when her father
was diagnosed with bladder cancer. Soon after, she took on the role of caring
for her mother with Parkinson’s until their recent passing. It’s a tale of
love, dedication, and resilience.
2. Coping with Sudden Loss
Denise opens up about the emotional impact of her brother’s sudden death in
2021. She candidly discusses the challenges his widow faced and the discomfort
surrounding questions about the cause of death. This part of her story is a
poignant reminder to honor lives rather than focusing on their end.
3. Emotional Turbulence and Family Dynamics
Navigating her father’s cancer treatment and her mother’s illness brought about
strain in family relationships. Denise shares her heartbreak, burnout, and the
frustration of feeling overlooked, especially during medical appointments.
4. The Realities of Caregiving
Denise recounts practical struggles like managing her father’s ostomy bag,
highlighting the gaps in healthcare guidance. She stresses the crucial role
caregivers play and how they often become experts in their loved ones’
conditions—what she calls having a “PhD in their care.”
5. Systemic Challenges and Advocacy
The narrative touches on the daily battles caregivers face, the lack of
resources, and the systemic issues that need addressing. There’s hope on the
horizon with new Medicare services for caregiver support coming in 2024, but
Denise underscores the slow progress and the need for broader solutions like a
universal basic income for caregivers.
6. Community and Support
Denise highlights the growing movement aimed at supporting caregivers, from
flexible work arrangements to community workshops. Effective communication of
needs and self-care remains at the heart of her message.
Closing Thoughts
Denise’s story is not just about caregiving; it’s about resilience, advocacy,
and the unwavering human spirit. Her journey is a powerful reminder of the
vital role caregivers play and the support they desperately need.