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Island Treasures
This podcast provides a platform for caregivers to share their stories, offering encouragement and insights to those who may be on a similar journey. Guests bring wisdom and empowerment to remind caregivers they're not alone. Additionally, guests share valuable information, tips and resources to support caregivers in their vital role.
Island Treasures
Expressions of Love Through Caregiving
Grace Block is a long-time friend of mine who is a caregiver. She has also been a care receiver. Her dad was diagnosed at the age of 50 with Parkinson’s Disease and Grace supported her mom who was his primary caregiver. Grace relocated to be closer to her parents, realizing they needed more support and after her father passed 30 years after his diagnosis, Grace was grateful to live close to her mom who continued to live in their home, independently.
Then came the time her mom could no longer safely live alone, and Grace stepped into a more hands-on caregiving role, supporting her mom through what they thought were mini strokes. One day her mom left her a phone message that she did not remember making – and her behavior in that recording gave significant information that led to a diagnosis of what really was happening, then came dementia.
Grace takes us through the transition of moving her mom into first Assisted Living and then into Long-term care and the daily involvement she continues to enjoy with her mom to this day. Grace has a wise and gentle approach to caregiving, and she is not afraid or reluctant to accept help. One such source of help comes in the form of a secret weapon! Grace also talks about the comfort that the family’s pets can provide; and she speaks directly to caregivers who may be new to caregiving – offering wisdom as they start out.
Her mom, now 94 years of age, was also Grace’s caregiver for a time when Grace was diagnosed with Optic Neuritis – which meant she had trouble with light as her vision was impaired and she was no longer able to go to work.
Grace now considers it her privilege to care for her mom, as she really loves her – and she admits she feels very fortunate…. and sometimes very tired. This episode is full of candor and wisdom, not to mention expressions of love through caregiving.