Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver
Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver is a candid interview and storytelling podcast about the realities of caring for a loved one. Hosts JJ and Natalie are sisters who care for their mother living with Parkinson's and a husband who survived cancer. Alongside their guests, they share the good, the bad, and the ugly moments of caregiving. The show aims to affirm listeners in their role as caregivers and encourage them to voice their own needs. Expect honest conversation that ranges from laughter to tears, always leaving listeners feeling less alone.
Episodes
2025 – The Plot Twist That’s Changing Everything
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.Social Media:Connect with the Sisters at CareForwardIntroduction to CareForward: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wXlHpt2uFDYVolunteer with CareForward: http://app.careforward.io Partner with CareForward: https://careforward.io/partne
Caregiver Groundhog Day: Lessons We Keep Learning
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.Support the showConfessions of a Reluctant CaregiverSisterhood of Care, LLCWebsite: www.confessionsofareluctantcaregiver.com Like us on Facebook!Tweet with us on Twitter!Follow us on Instagram!Watch us on Youtube!Pin us on Pinterest!Link us on LinkedIn!T
Wait… Haven’t We Been Here Before?
Some stories are worth a second listen. The sisters rewind time to reflect, laugh, and prove that caregiving chaos never gets old.Support the showConfessions of a Reluctant CaregiverSisterhood of Care, LLCWebsite: www.confessionsofareluctantcaregiver.com Like us on Facebook!Tweet with us on Twitter!Follow us on Instagram!Watch us on Youtube!Pin us on Pinterest!Link us on LinkedIn!Tune in on Whole
The Lost Episode: Looking Back with the Original Reluctant Caregivers
In August 2023, Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver took an exciting leap across the pond — airing on UK Health Radio and sharing caregiver stories with an international audience for the first time.But there was just one catch…They had 45 minutes or less to tell their story.Unlike their five-part U.S. debut series, the sisters — Natalie, JJ, and Emilie — had to condense years of caregiving, laugh
Competing Priorities: Balancing Family, Career and Caregiving
In this episode, Ed DeVaney joins the sisters of "Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver" to share his deeply personal caregiving experience. Raised in a competitive and close-knit Irish Catholic family in Chicago, Ed describes a childhood filled with familial connections and strong influences from his mother, who not only modeled the values of care and perseverance but also became the cen
Dad, Devotion, and Dancing: Finding Joy in the Hardest Goodbye
This week’s episode focuses on Christopher “Chris” Schuler—his journey as a son, father, and most notably, a devoted caregiver. Chris, adopted from Colombia and raised in a loving, close-knit family in New York, reflects deeply on identity, belonging, and the power of chosen family. His parents’ move to Rhode Island marked a period of even stronger family bonds, which would later prove invaluable
Not Stuck in the Yuck: Tricia’s Story of Family, Advocacy, and Strength
Tricia Fitzgerald brings a deeply personal and candid perspective to the experiences of long-term caregiving within a family affected by chronic illness. Drawing from over two decades of advocacy and professional work supporting children and families, Tricia’s story is rooted in her own journey—beginning with undiagnosed chronic illness symptoms as a child and culminating in the late discovery of
Disrupting Care: How Neal Shah Is Revolutionizing Support for Families
Neal Shah’s journey, showcases the impact of caregiving on individual lives and the broader healthcare system. Raised in a close-knit immigrant family, Neal's values were shaped early by the examples set by his parents and grandparents. After building an impressive career in finance, a series of personal experiences as a caregiver—first supporting his grandfather through end-of-life care, the
When Life Calls: Zack’s Story of Stepping Up for Family and Changing the Caregiving Conversation
Zack Demopoulos’s story begins with his upbringing as the proud son of Greek immigrants, whose journey to the United States instilled in him a deep sense of gratitude, resilience, and responsibility. He shares how his family’s experiences shaped his values and work ethic, from working in his father’s restaurant as a teenager to pursuing higher education and a successful corporate career. Zack’s li
Compassion in Action: Donna’s Path from Caregiver to Changemaker
With a lifelong passion for nursing, Donna Steigleder’s journey began in her childhood and evolved into a career in healthcare, where she gained a wealth of experience across various medical settings. Her personal caregiving story started early, as she recognized and advocated for her daughter’s mental health needs at a time when such issues were often dismissed. Despite resistance from family and
The Power of the Pause: Finding Relief in Caregiving with Jenn Fredericks
Jenn Fredericks is the featured guest in this episode, sharing her deeply personal journey as both a long-term patient and a dedicated caregiver. Diagnosed with chronic kidney disease as a teenager, Jenn received her first kidney transplant from her father at age 15, and later a second from her husband’s twin brother. Her life took another challenging turn when her adopted daughter was diagnosed w
The Power of Three and Twelve: Jason’s Caregiving Blueprint
Jason Binder, the founder of Aware Coaching, is a dedicated husband and father of five. His caregiving journey began unexpectedly when his wife, Tracy, a lively marathon runner and mother, received a diagnosis of glioblastoma, a terminal brain cancer. This news came just weeks after they had moved into their dream farmhouse. Drawing on his background in pharma and his experience as a change agent,
Boundaries, Faith, and Family: Lessons from Jenifer Massie’s Caregiving Journey
From a young age, Jenifer Massie was immersed in a culture of service, beginning with volunteering in her school’s “gramps and grannies” program and extending to caring for her own family members. Her caregiving roles evolved over the years, from supporting her grandmother and great aunt to becoming a “sandwich caregiver” while raising her own children. Jenifer’s approach to caregiving was shaped
Surviving the Grief Buffet: Angela’s Journey Through Caregiving and Loss
Over the course of several years, Angela Ibarra faced a series of profound losses, including her husband, her mother, her job, and eventually her father. Her caregiving journey began early, shaped by a childhood spent supporting a sister with muscular dystrophy and later intensified as she became the primary caregiver for her mother, who suffered from Alzheimer’s. Angela candidly shares the emotio
Did Mom Drop Acid? Navigating Dementia and Family Dynamics
Michelle Cain’s journey as a caregiver began when her mother was diagnosed with Lewy Body dementia during the pandemic, a time already fraught with uncertainty and stress. At 47, Michelle found herself in the “sandwich generation,” balancing the needs of her own family—her husband and two sons—with the increasing demands of caring for her mother. The diagnosis came as a shock, and Michelle quickly
The Power of Family: Navigating ALS Across Generations
The story of Mollie and Maureen powerfully illustrates the emotional depth and complexities of family caregiving when ALS profoundly impacts a household. Maureen, a pediatric nurse from Philadelphia, took on the primary caregiving role for her mother after her father's death. This decision was driven by both her medical background and a deep sense of love and responsibility. She skillfully ma
Confessions of a Young Widow: Rising Above Grief
Shannon Traphagen became a caregiver at 43 when her husband Mike was diagnosed with incurable brain cancer. Their 14-month battle was fraught with heartbreak, including losing an adoption opportunity just before his diagnosis. Despite the challenges, Shannon showed remarkable strength, focusing on Mike's care while managing her own health and emotions.Her experience highlights the emotional c
Not What We Signed Up For: Embracing an Unexpected Path
When Rachel Shapiro’s daughter suffered a severe stroke just before her second birthday, Rachel and her husband were told their child might not survive. Despite the devastating prognosis, they refused to give up, navigating a complex medical journey that transformed their family's life. Their daughter now lives with significant medical needs, requiring a tracheostomy and ventilator support, w
Surviving, Thriving, and Loving Again
Stacy Ryan’s powerful story is a testament to love, resilience, and the human capacity to heal after profound loss. Her journey began with her own cancer diagnosis at 45, which she survived, followed by her husband John’s battle with cancer that ultimately claimed his life in December 2020. Throughout their cancer journey, they demonstrated an extraordinary partnership, supporting each other with
Love Creatively: A Caregiver's Colorful Journey
This week, Ari Medrano delivers a powerful testament to the depth and complexity of caregiving. As a Mexican immigrant who came to the United States at age one, Ari's approach to caregiving is deeply rooted in her family's values of service, love, and compassion. Throughout the episode, she shares multiple experiences of caregiving, including caring for her cousin with bone cancer, a hom
The Sandwich Generation Survival Guide
Julia Mayer, a clinical psychologist, shares her extensive caregiving journey spanning nine years, which involved caring for her father after her mother's unexpected passing and then supporting her husband Barry's mother, Jean, and stepfather, Steve. After her mother died during a heart surgery recovery, Julia and her siblings stepped in to care for their father, with her older brother t
Forever Caregiver: The Lucas Project & Life Beyond Loss
"I became a forever parent caregiver." - Jesse RonneWhat happens when caregiving, loss, and love collide? Jess Ronnie, writer, speaker, podcaster, and founder of The Lucas Project, brings her powerful story to the mic, offering a moving look into parenting a child with special needs, enduring grief, and building a future rooted in compassion and advocacy.Jess opens up about the emotional
“And Other Duties Assigned”: When caregiving is unexpectedly added to your Job Description
"I felt this sense of odd FOMO." - Taylor FixMeet Taylor Fix, a remarkable caregiver whose journey began in childhood. Growing up in a close-knit family, caregiving was second nature. But it wasn’t until she became a farmhand and full-time caregiver for Bill, an elderly man she bonded deeply with, that Taylor truly stepped into her calling.💬 Join us as Taylor opens up about:Becoming a yo
Inside the World of Special Needs Caregiving: One Father's Powerful Journey
"You don't know what you don't know." - Dave KrikacWhat happens when love meets lifelong responsibility? The realities of caregiving for individuals with special needs, the triumphs, the trials, and the transformative love it takes to show up every day can be daunting.. Meet Dave Krikac, a devoted father raising his daughter with autism, as he shares the raw and inspiring stor
Surrendering Control: The Hardest Part of Saying Goodbye
"I am sunny with a chance of tornadoes." - Yvette LeFlore🎧 Intuitive energy healer Yvette LaFleur opens up about her deeply personal caregiving journey through love, loss, and healing. As the caregiver for her late husband Walter, who bravely battled stage four lung cancer, Yvette shares profound lessons on self-care, anticipatory grief, surrendering control, and honoring the wishes of a
You Can’t Make This Up! Sister Updates
“Caregiving never ends. No, it never stops.” - Natalie and JJ Caregiving is a journey—full of love, lessons, and let’s be honest, a few laughs along the way. In this candid conversation, we dive into the realities of caregiving: navigating skilled nursing facilities, managing emotional and financial stress, and finding strength in community. We’re also sharing what’s in store for 2025 and beyond.
Caring Through Chaos: A Journey with Frontotemporal Dementia
“I was in therapy, that was a lifeline.” - Allyson SchrierThis is a powerful one! Natalie and JJ sit down with Allyson Schrier as she opens up about her deeply personal and emotional journey caring for her husband, who was diagnosed with Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD).Allison candidly shares the early signs of FTD, the heartbreaking misdiagnosis, and the uphill battle of navigating a complex health
Faith, Culture & Raising a Child with Special Needs
“Never say never in your journey.” - Eleni ParisNatalie and JJ sit down with Eleni Paris, a licensed therapist and devoted mom, as she shares her deeply personal journey raising her daughter Sophia, who has cognitive and speech impairments.Eleni opens up about navigating cultural expectations, emotional burnout, and the realities of parenting a child with developmental delays—all while juggling h
Holding On & Letting Go: A Caregiver’s Emotional Journey
"He chose to keep living." - Amy ShawWhen life takes an unexpected turn, how do you find the strength to carry on? JJ and Nat sit down with Amy Shaw to share her deeply moving story raising a large family, including children with special needs, and navigating the heartbreaking journey of her husband Brian’s terminal illness.From the first signs of illness to the devastating diagnosis of
When Caregiving Finds You: Navigating Alzheimer’s & Family Care
"You have to be ready to roll with it." - Alfredo BotelloStepping into the role of caregiver isn’t always a choice, it’s a journey filled with love, loss, and unexpected lessons. J.J. and Natalie welcome novelist and screenwriter, Alfredo Botello to open up about caring for his mother after his stepfather’s passing and navigating the challenges of Alzheimer’s and assisted living.🔹 Key Ta
The Reality of Caregiving: Culture, Family & Technology
"I wanted to make the most of it." - Dona Kim MurpheyCaregiving is never just about one person, it’s about family, culture, and community. Natalie and J.J. sit down with Dr. Dona Kim Murphey, neurologist and caregiver, to explore the deeply personal and often unspoken challenges of caregiving.From cultural expectations to the emotional and relational toll caregiving takes, this conversat
Military Service to Autism Advocacy: Maureen’s Confession
"I suffered from caregiver fatigue." - Maureen EliasMaureen shares her journey from a structured military career to the unpredictable world of caregiving. As a mother of children on the autism spectrum, she opens up about the challenges and triumphs of parenting, the impact of military life on family dynamics, and the importance of advocacy and community support. Through personal stories
The Juggle: Kyle Daquanna’s Journey as a Caregiver, Father, and Advocate
"Life is really short and it changes." - Kyle DaquannaJJ and Natalie sit down with Kyle Daquanna, a male caregiver, as he shares his powerful journey of balancing work, family, and caregiving responsibilities after his father’s stroke. Kyle opens up about the emotional and logistical challenges of caregiving, the impact of family dynamics, and the difficult medical decisions caregivers f
Beyond the Uniform: A Military Wife’s Caregiving Journey
"I forgot how to care for myself." - Tara RossIn this powerful episode of Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver, hosts Natalie and JJ welcome guest, Tara Ross to dive deep into the raw realities of caregiving—especially within military families. Tara opens up about her journey from falling in love with John, a dedicated Navy submariner, to facing the life-altering challenges of his trauma
It’s Complicated! Navigating Caregiving and Difficult Family Relationships
"He needed us more than we needed him." - Nick GaylordThis is a powerful one! Hosts Natalie and JJ sit down with Nick Gaylord to explore the raw realities of caregiving, grief, and complex family dynamics. Nick opens up about the emotional toll of caring for his father, the struggles of managing a difficult relationship, and the conflicting emotions of loss, relief, and anger after his p
The Hidden Struggles of Caregiving and Dangers of Burnout
"I was feeling angry, I was feeling resentful." - Kate WashingtonJJ and Natalie sit down with author Kate Washington to uncover the emotional, financial, and mental health challenges of caregiving. Kate shares her personal journey of caring for both her mother and husband, revealing the unseen struggles caregivers face, from healthcare system hurdles to burnout and grief. Kate and the si
A Career in Human Resources, A Calling in Caregiving
"Look for the glimmers in caregiving." - Mark WilsonHosts JJ and Natalie sit down with Mark Wilson, a former corporate executive who left his successful career to become a full-time caregiver after his mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis.🔹 Mark’s Caregiving Journey – The emotional transition from executive to caregiver🔹 Building a Support System – How to create a strong caregiving team🔹 Less
Media Producer Turned Caregiving Advocate
"Dementia gave us that gift of closeness." - Katrina PrescottIn this compelling episode of The Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver podcast, hosts JJ and Natalie dive into the world of caregiving with special guest Katrina Prescott, a media producer turned caregiving advocate. 🌟Katrina opens up about her unexpected journey into caregiving, starting at a young age, and shares invaluable l
Cultural Expectations in Caregiving: Family, Sacrifice, and Self-Care
"It's OK not to know everything." - Tracee LoranIn this heartfelt episode of Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver, hosts JJ, Natalie, and Tracee Loran dive into the unexpected twists and turns of caregiving. Tracy shares her deeply personal story of stepping into the caregiver role for her grandmother after a serious fall, shedding light on:💡 Family dynamics & cultural expectati
Living a Double Life as a Caregiver
"I finally found my purpose." - Adrienne Marioles🎙️ Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver brings you another raw and relatable episode as hosts Natalie and JJ sit down with Adrienne Marioles, a millennial caregiver with a story that’s equal parts inspiring and real. Adrienne opens up about her leap from the hustle and bustle of New York City to the emotional rollercoaster of caring for he
The Caregiver’s Balancing Act: Family, Life, and Everything In Between
"Let's not sugarcoat it; it's hard." - Dr. Jacob KendallIn this episode of Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver, JJ and Natalie chat with Dr. Jacob Kendall, who opens up about his life-changing experience as a caregiver after his father’s health crisis. It’s a conversation filled with heartfelt stories, relatable struggles, and powerful insights into the rollercoaster of caregi
Triumph Over Grief Through Community Love
"You can bring back the color and the light." - Kelci JagerKelci Jagger shares her powerful and emotional story of overcoming tragic loss and grief through the support of her community and finding power in living in the light. Her incredible journey chronicles a series of tragic events including a dangerous accident with her two sons and her husband’s heart-breaking leukemia diagnosis. L
Turning a Mess into a Message with Christina Keys
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 th
Unexpected! Finding True Love in Caregiving
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 ope
Caregiving Wisdom Beyond His Years: Lessons from a 16-Year-Old Trailblazer
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
When "I Do" Means Caring Through Illness: A Story of Devotion
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,
Renovating Lives: How Renovation Alliance is Transforming Lives through Home Renovation
Kendall Cloeter's passion for affordable housing and community revitalization shines through in her work with the Renovation Alliance. As a self-described "social worker by trade," Kendall brings a deep understanding of the challenges low-income homeowners face in the Roanoke Valley and a commitment to making a difference.Under Kendall's leadership, the Renovation Alliance has
Unbreakable Bond: How a Father's Love Transcends Adversity
Thom Deleuw's story reflects dedication and a father's love. After a 34-year career in law enforcement, Thom found his true purpose when his son, Jack, had a serious motorcycle accident that left him paralyzed from the chest down. Thom became Jack's full-time caregiver, viewing it as a "willing obligation" that highlights their strong bond.Thom's journey has been mark
Honoring Heroes: Semper Fi and America's Fund's Lifetime of Support
This week’s educational episode showcases the incredible work of Semper Fi and America's Fund, an organization that has been providing vital support to service members, veterans, and their families for over 20 years. At the heart of this organization is Sondria Saylor, the Executive Vice President, whose personal connection to the military community runs deep.Sondria's connection to the
Caregiving as a Calling: Crystal's Unwavering Commitment to Serving Her Hero
Crystal Lane's story is one of faith, determination, and an unwavering commitment to supporting her husband, JP, a retired Army Specialist who lost both his legs in an IED explosion in Afghanistan. Despite their challenges, Crystal and JP's journey is a testament to the power of love and determination.At just 22 years old, Crystal met JP at a gym in San Antonio, where he was recovering f
From Four Kinds to One Community: The Rosalynn Carter Institute's Holistic Approach to Supporting Caregivers
Established in 1987 by former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, the Rosalynn Carter Institute promotes the health, strength, and resilience of caregivers at every stage of their journey. As Mandy Barr, a caregiver coach and engagement specialist at the Institute, eloquently explained, the organization is dedicated to supporting caregivers from all backgrounds—whether they are military, veteran, or civil
Overcoming Adversity Together: A Navy Chaplain's Unwavering Support for His Wounded Warrior Wife
As a senior Navy Chaplain, Bob Evan's calling has always been to serve and care for others, whether it was his troops, fellow service members, or the wounded warriors he encountered. When his fiancée, Gretchen, was severely injured by a mortar round in Afghanistan, Bob's role shifted from chaplain to devoted caregiver.Despite his extensive training and experience as a pastoral counselor,
Navigating the Challenges: PsychArmor's Comprehensive Training for Caregivers
This week, our episode highlights the vital work of PsychArmor, an organization dedicated to transforming how society engages with veterans and service members. Led by Dr. Tina Atherall, PsychArmor's mission is to provide education, training, and resources to both the military community and the individuals and organizations that support them.We talk about the growing need for caregiver suppor
Lessons in Resilience, Vulnerability, and the Art of Care
Qwynn Galloway-Salazar is the heart and soul of this week’s Heroes Caring for Heroes episode. As an Army veteran, end-of-life doula, and the founder of In Their Honor, Qwynn has dedicated over two decades to elevating the quality of life for military, veteran, and caregiving communities. Her personal journey, however, took an unexpected turn when her husband, Jose, a retired combat veteran and law
Unlocking VA Benefits: A Insider's Guide to Caregiver, Family, and Survivor Support
This week’s special educational episode shines a spotlight on the incredible work being done by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to support caregivers, families, and survivors of veterans. In this educational episode, Maureen Elias, a Senior Advisor to the Under Secretary for Benefits at the VA, provides a comprehensive overview of the vast array of benefits and programs available thro
The Millennial Caregiver: Balancing Dreams and Responsibilities
Angelena Taylor's caregiving journey began quite unexpectedly at the age of 28 when her father, Benjamin, experienced a stroke. This event marked the start of her role as a caregiver, which she took on with dedication and focus. As a daughter and military caregiver, Angelena balanced her responsibilities with her Miss USA World Universal Ambassador title, using each role to support the other.
The Caregiver's Toolkit: Tried-and-True Strategies for Thriving, Not Just Surviving
Lori Rogers shares her powerful journey as the caregiver of her 33-year-old son, Craig, who was diagnosed with autism at 2.5 years old. When Craig was first diagnosed in 1993, Lori and her husband Neil dove headfirst into supporting him, trying various therapies, diets, and interventions to help him. Despite the challenges, they refused to live in victimhood and instead focused on hope and finding
Tatas, Tears, and Triumph: Susie's Candid Tales of Caring for Mom
Susie Singer Carter shares the story of caring for her mother, Norma, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's 16 years before her passing. Susie describes how she was the first to notice the signs of Alzheimer's, even as her family dismissed her concerns. As Susie navigates her mother's declining health, she also faces personal challenges, including going through a divorce. Susie brought
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Embracing the Mess: Lessons on Caregiving and Self-Care for the Caregiver Warrior
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
Caregiving, Companionship, and the Unbreakable Bond: Bob Kay's Heartwarming Story
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 u
Caregiving Reinvented: Paul's Innovative Approach to Supporting His Parents
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 ca
Finding Harmony: Balancing Professional Care with Personal Caregiving Responsibilities
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
Shining a Light on Caregiving Youth: Insights from the "Hidden in Plain Sight" Series
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 highli
Strength in Sisterhood: Alia and Nahla's Inspiring Tale of Resilience and Responsibility
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 fami
Navigating Younger Onset Dementia: Insights from a Youth Advocate Olivia and Patti from Lorenzo's House
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 Lo
Embracing Care: The Inspiring Resolve of Young Carers
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 respo
Bridging the Gap: Enhancing Policies to Support Caregiving Youth
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 hi
Kids Kicking Cancer: Empowering Children to Find their Power, Peace, and Purpose
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&a
Childhood Interrupted: The Realities of Caregiving for Youth
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 chall
Pyx Health: Helping Individuals of All Ages Overcome Loneliness
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 skil
Caregiving Youth: A Powerful Voice from the Next Generation
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 adv
Caregiving Around the World Panel Discussion
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 knowled
Growing Up Caring: A Young Carer's Story of Resilience
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 mothe
Leaving a Legacy of Health: Caregiving Experiences and the Drive to Educate Others
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 hu
Caregiving Rapids: Navigating the River of Aging and Independence
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 th
Unconditional Love in Action: Honoring Vows Through Sickness and Health
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Side Effects, Solutions, and the Power of Persistence in Caregiving
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Caregiving and Career Colliding: Navigating Work and Family Responsibilities
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A Love to Remember: A Young Woman's Journey Caring for Her Partner Through ALS
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***********************************************************************
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