When the dementia journey with my mom began in 2020, I became keenly aware of the underlying current of dread and distress that comes with caregiving. Anything can go sideways at any time, whether you are nearby or not, which is why when I saw the call coming in from memory care at 11:00 pm, I thought, Oh, No. Mom was in her mid-70s and in perfect health living in California … [Read more...]
Why is it Easier to Have a Quality-of-Life Discussion with My Vet, Than My Doctor?
Years ago when my dog, Josh, became ill he was diagnosed with several tumors. The initial diagnosis was a UTI, pancreatitis and colitis, but an X-ray taken as part of diagnostics was cloudy. The ultrasound clearly showed tumors and a slow bleed from one of them. It was the last thing I expected. I don’t think there is anything worse than going from a waiting room to a small … [Read more...]
Are You Putting Off Grief or Finally Living Your Life?
2023 was the year when, for the first time, I was able to really concentrate on my business. It feels good to see everything that was accomplished and gratifying to look back at the family caregivers whose lives I was able to touch. It felt like I was finally reclaiming my life. So, if 2023 was such a good year, why was the start of 2024 hard personally and professionally? … [Read more...]
“I’m only leaving this house feet first.”
Recently, I had a conversation with Rosanne Corcoran, past caregiver for her mom and host of Daughterhood the Podcast. Rosanne lost her mom about a year before I did and, like me, is still struggling with grief and trying to answer the questions every caregiver faces at the end of our journey. "What is my purpose? What am I good for now?” During our dinner, Rosann looked at … [Read more...]
Mom is Gone a Year Now.
Some days it feels like yesterday that I got the call she had passed during the night. Other days it feels like it happened years ago. Grief is such a complex emotion that is different for everyone. That is why it feels so complicated to me because there is no formula. I have been surprised this past year by how often the grief I feel at losing mom is doubled by the grief of … [Read more...]