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Your loved one's behavior isn't the source of your stress—your reaction to it is." This powerful insight forms the foundation of Rick Henkin's transformative approach to dementia caregiving, which he shares in this deeply moving episode.

When Rick's wife Sonia was diagnosed with Alzheimer's at 65, their world shifted dramatically. From her developing Capgras syndrome (believing Rick was an imposter) to the heartbreak of seeing her relationship with their granddaughters deteriorate, Rick faced the crushing weight that so many caregivers experience. The turning point came not from changing his circumstances, but from changing his mindset.

Rick takes us through his journey of discovery—how he went from anger and frustration to finding what he calls his "heaven on earth" state of peace and acceptance. He shares candid stories that will resonate with anyone who's cared for someone with dementia, from Sonia putting toothpaste in her hair to "borrowing" pancakes from strangers in restaurants. Rather than sources of stress, these moments became cherished memories through Rick's transformed perspective.

Most powerfully, Rick reveals how his relationship with Sonia evolved to where spending time with her became his source of respite rather than stress. "Caregivers have the ability to make the rest of their loved one's life miserable or joyful," he notes—a profound responsibility and opportunity.

Whether you're caring for someone with dementia or facing any caregiving challenges, Rick's practical wisdom offers a path forward. By focusing on what you can control—your own thoughts and reactions—rather than what you can't, you'll discover how to lift the burden of caregiving stress while providing better care for both your loved one and yourself.

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What happens when a personal health transformation becomes the unexpected preparation for a life-altering caregiving journey? Christine Trimpe's story powerfully demonstrates how God works ahead of our awareness to equip us for challenges we can't yet imagine.

Christine candidly shares the moment that changed everything - standing breathless on a Rocky Mountain trail, unable to complete a half-mile hike due to being over 100 pounds overweight. That humbling experience led to a simple prayer: "God, I just want to feel better." Little did she know how perfectly timed her subsequent health transformation would be. After ditching sugar completely and losing over 100 pounds, Christine found herself spiritually, emotionally, and physically strengthened just months before her son suffered a traumatic brain injury in a catastrophic car accident.

Now as her son's caregiver, Christine navigates the unique challenges of supporting someone with an invisible disability. Though outwardly appearing unaffected, her son's TBI impacts his mental health and requires ongoing advocacy, oversight, and support. Christine reveals the surprising isolation of caregiving and how her morning ritual of time in God's Word sustains her through difficult seasons. Her focus on cultivating joy and more recently, peace replacing hypervigilance, demonstrates the evolving nature of spiritual growth throughout the caregiving journey.

For caregivers at any stage, Christine offers wisdom gleaned from experience: true self-care means nurturing your spiritual and emotional health first. Her personal philosophy—"when we feel better, we serve better"—encapsulates the importance of maintaining our own well-being to effectively care for others. Whether you're facing health challenges, unexpected caregiving responsibilities, or both, Christine's story reminds us that God often prepares the path before us, equipping us for seasons we never anticipated.

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What happens when caregiving transforms you so completely that it redirects your life's purpose? Susan Stern's remarkable journey takes us through two decades of caring for both parents—first as a long-distance caregiver for her father during his 10-year cancer battle, then as primary caregiver for her mother through a decade of Alzheimer's. 

The conversation reveals the stark differences between these caregiving experiences while uncovering the universal challenges all caregivers face. Susan speaks candidly about the unexpected grief that blindsided her after her mother's passing—how she found herself "regrieving" her father too.  Particularly moving is Susan's vulnerability around control. As a self-described Type A personality, caregiving forced her to become "comfortable with being uncomfortable" and to surrender her illusion of managing every outcome. 

The transformation Susan experienced wasn't just personal but professional. Her caregiving journey ultimately led her to become a board-certified life coach specifically supporting family caregivers who are exhausted from overgiving. Whether you're currently caregiving, anticipating this role, or processing your past caregiving experiences, Susan's wisdom offers practical hope. Her encouragement to ask for help, find time for self-care, and recognize that "you're stronger than you think" serves as a powerful reminder that with faith and community, we can not only survive caregiving but emerge with unexpected gifts of resilience, purpose, and deeper connection.

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Grace transforms the caregiver journey from a pursuit of perfection to a path of authentic love and service. When our inner critic shouts that we've fallen short - that we should be more patient, more organized, more everything - grace gently reminds us we're human, doing sacred work one imperfect day at a time.

My own journey began at 16 when my mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. By the time I was 20, she could no longer communicate clearly. Yet her voice lives on as my internal cheerleader, echoing the patient encouragement she offered during my childhood struggles with reading. "Keep going, honey. You're doing better than you think," she'd say beside me at the kitchen table. This growth mindset rooted in grace stands in stark contrast to the harsh inner critic we all battle.

The critic shows up in our lowest moments - when we lose patience, forget appointments, or simply run out of emotional bandwidth. It replays our mistakes at 3 AM and tells us we're failing. But Romans 8:1 reminds us "there is therefore no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." God's grace isn't a reward for getting it right; it's a gift freely given, especially when we feel we've gotten it all wrong. Through practical steps like pausing to identify unhelpful thoughts, reframing criticism with truth, and speaking grace aloud to ourselves, we can quiet that critical voice.

You are doing better than you think. Your effort matters. Your showing up matters. Download our free "Grace for the Journey" reflection guide to help silence your inner critic and embrace the growth that happens in this challenging, beautiful season of caring.

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What happens when a medical professional becomes the primary caregiver for their own parent? Dr. Melissa Glass, a doctorate trained registered nurse and John Maxwell certified coach, takes us through her profound journey of caring for her mother during the pandemic's darkest days.

The caregiver journey often begins unexpectedly. For Dr. Glass, it started with long-distance care as her fiercely independent mother battled health challenges in Louisiana. When COVID-19 changed everything in 2020, Dr. Glass brought her mother to live with her in Texas while simultaneously pursuing her doctorate and managing a household. Her mother's complex medical needs—end-stage renal disease requiring dialysis, uncontrolled diabetes, and complications leading to an amputation—created a perfect storm of caregiving intensity.

Despite her medical expertise, Dr. Glass discovered that caring for family introduces emotional complexities professional training can't prepare you for. "Even working in healthcare... I never understood how do you even find time to take care of yourself?" she reflects candidly. Her story illuminates the universal struggle caregivers face: balancing expertise with familial relationships while maintaining boundaries and self-care.

The most touching revelations come through Dr. Glass's description of their final holiday season together. Her mother, typically camera-shy, allowed precious photos and videos that now provide comfort in grief. "Sometimes when I just need a little comfort to want to hear my mother's voice... I don't mourn over them as much as I use it as a comfort," she shares, offering wisdom about documentation that every caregiver should hear.

After her mother's peaceful transition in January 2021, Dr. Glass developed the powerful SHIFT framework (Scripture, Holy Spirit, Illuminate, Faith, Testimony) that guided her healing journey. Her story reminds us that caregiving, while tremendously challenging, often becomes the crucible where our deepest spiritual growth occurs.

Join us for this moving conversation about medical caregiving, capturing memories, finding personalized self-care, and discovering God's presence even in our darkest moments. Connect with Dr. Glass on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram to continue the conversation about resilience through caregiving's most difficult seasons.

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Mary Beth Powers never expected to become a caregiver during what should have been her freedom-filled empty nester years. Instead, she found herself stretched between caring for her husband with Meniere's disease at home and her mother-in-law who lived 45 minutes away. The physical distance created practical challenges that were amplified during COVID when quarantine protocols meant she couldn't return home after providing care.

The breaking point came when both loved ones needed 24-hour care simultaneously. In a raw moment of desperation, Mary Beth found herself in a laundry room, sobbing and questioning God about the fairness of her situation. It was there she heard His gentle voice: "I just need you to be my hands and feet in this moment." This divine encounter didn't remove her challenges but gave them profound meaning, transforming her perspective from self-focused frustration to purpose-driven service.

One of the most beautiful moments emerged when Mary Beth, who had once dreamed of becoming a hairdresser, found herself styling her mother-in-law's soft white hair. This simple act created an unexpected bridge between them, deepening a relationship that had previously been somewhat distant. Meanwhile, Mary Beth watched in amazement as her adult children—all newlyweds beginning their own families—stepped up to support both her and their grandmother in remarkable ways.

The greatest wisdom Mary Beth gained was recognizing that caregiving was never about her comfort or convenience. She learned that running to Jesus first, being honest about difficult emotions without placing blame, and focusing on the person needing care rather than personal inconvenience made all the difference.  Mary Beth encourages caregivers to give themselves grace while remembering that God meets us perfectly in our imperfections. Connect with Mary Beth at marybethpowers.com or follow her on Instagram @girlbestill to learn more about her ministry.

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What happens when God orchestrates seemingly unrelated events into a beautiful tapestry of purpose? Joy Kotz  unexpectedly became her father's primary caregiver, especially given their emotionally distant relationship and his age. Yet in this powerful conversation, she reveals how three months of caregiving during her father's final days transformed both her heart and their relationship.

Joy shares the remarkable story of how she felt called to donate a kidney to a church member, only to discover she wasn't a match—a disappointment that turned into divine protection. Had she undergone surgery, she wouldn't have been able to care for her father when he was diagnosed with congestive heart failure just months later. Through intimate moments like washing her father's feet and celebrating family milestones together, Joy found herself treasuring a season she initially resented.

The story doesn't end there. After her father's passing, another kidney donation need arose, and this time Joy was a perfect match. Looking back, she sees God's hand guiding each step, preparing her through caregiving for this gift she would later give. Her journey reveals profound spiritual lessons about timing, purpose, and finding meaning in difficult seasons.

For anyone in the midst of caregiving challenges, Joy offers wisdom from her experience: "Remember that it's a season. Keep your eyes on Jesus. If He's called you into this, there's reason and purpose in it." Her commitment to living without regrets and being faithful to what God places before her each day provides inspiration for anyone walking through their own season of caring.

Subscribe to A Season of Caring podcast for more stories that will help you live content, love well, and care without regrets—finding God's presence even in life's most demanding seasons.

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Ramona Torres never expected to become her father's primary caregiver, yet when Angel (known to most as Manuel or Manny) fell and broke his femur bone in Puerto Rico, Ramona's life transformed as she welcomed him into her Pennsylvania home for what would become the final 15 months of his journey.

With remarkable candor, Ramona shares the profound words her father spoke that still resonate with her: "I never thought that you would be the one taking care of me in the end of my life." As the youngest of four children—a "surprise baby" her parents hadn't planned—Ramona reflects on how God uniquely positioned her for this sacred role of honoring her father through hands-on care.

What shines through Ramona's story is the divine thread of purpose woven throughout her experience. A profound moment came when her father awakened the night before his passing to tell her directly, "Mona, I'm dying." The next day, after Ramona prayed to be present for his final breath, God answered her request in a moment that confirmed His faithful presence throughout their journey.

Since her father's passing, Ramona has discovered new depths of intentionality in relationships. She now reaches out to elderly individuals in nursing homes, cherishing the wisdom they share, and facilitates grief recovery programs at her local jail. Her story reminds us that caregiving, while challenging, offers hidden gifts of connection, purpose, and spiritual growth.

Whether you're currently caring for an aging parent or supporting someone who is, Ramona's journey will inspire you to find meaning amidst difficulty and to recognize God's presence even in the most demanding seasons of life. Listen now and discover how caregiving can become a sacred journey of honoring those we love.

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Dive into the world of caregiving with our latest episode as we explore the essential practice of reflection. Discover how stepping back and reassessing experiences can radically transform your perspective as a caregiver. In this episode, we share personal stories, practical strategies, and insights that reveal how reflection can foster growth, gratitude, and adaptability in daily life. Insights from real experiences not only validate the challenges of caregiving but also illuminate pathways to a more satisfied and less regretful caregiving journey. Join us in discovering how reflection isn't just a means of evaluating the past but ultimately a means of shaping brighter futures for both caregivers and those they care for. 

As you listen, we encourage you to think about how you can integrate reflection into your life. Whether through journaling, quiet contemplation, or conversations with others, find the method that resonates with you. Don’t miss out on our resources that can help guide you in your reflective journey. Sign Up for Reflective and Grateful Hearts Grow Hope: 5 day devotional at www.ASeasonofCaring.com/Reflect

Subscribe, leave a review, and continue engaging with us as we navigate these rewarding yet challenging paths together.

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Join us for an enlightening conversation with Debbie Compton, a veteran caregiver and advocate, as she unpacks the emotional complexities of caregiving for loved ones with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and vascular dementia. Through personal anecdotes and powerful insights, Debbie shares her transformative journey from a successful business career to a passionate caregiver, highlighting the unexpected lessons she learned along the way.

In this episode, we delve into the heart-wrenching yet inspiring stories that illustrate the dual nature of caregiving: the joy intertwined with sorrow. Debbie recounts pivotal moments that not only challenged her resolve but also deepened her connection with her loved ones, showcasing the resilience and love inherent in caregiving. As she shares practical strategies for maintaining positivity, we discuss the significance of focusing on gratitude and support.

This episode is a profound reminder of the love that exists in even the most challenging caregiving situations. Whether you are currently in the throes of caring for a loved one or seeking to understand the journey, this conversation will uplift and inspire you. Tune in for Debbie's expert insights, heartfelt stories, and guidance on how to embrace this journey with grace and hope. Don’t forget to subscribe and share your thoughts with us!

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Imagine being on a journey where love, divine guidance, and ice cream are your compass. That's exactly what Sue Ryan experienced throughout her caregiving path. With over 40 years of personal caregiving and a strong background in enterprise software, Sue joins us to share her incredible story. From caring for her grandmother, father, and husband, Sue managed to balance these responsibilities while maintaining a thriving professional life. Her experiences offer a powerful blend of practical advice and spiritual insight, promising to empower anyone navigating similar roles.

Sue brings to light the surprising gifts that caregiving can offer, not just to those receiving care but to the caregivers themselves. She reveals how small acts, like offering a favorite treat, can profoundly impact a care receiver's emotional state. Through Sue's storytelling, we explore the beauty in the seemingly mundane and find honor in caring for those who can't care for themselves. These moments, guided by love and a touch of divine intervention, shape our purpose and transform how we serve others, turning challenges into true wisdom.

Our conversation celebrates the unique and perfectly imperfect nature of caregiving. Perceived failures? They're just stepping stones for learning and growth. We embrace the curiosity often lost in adulthood, finding joy in exploration and life’s unanswered questions. As Sue shares her personal story of God's presence during life's final stages, faith emerges as a comforting ally. Through all these experiences, hope remains a steadfast companion, inviting listeners to connect deeply with our caring community, always ready to support and inspire.

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What happens when a mother's love and faith intersect with caregiving challenges? Meet Tracey Glenn, a devoted caregiver and author, who beautifully shares her journey of caring for her daughter Kaylee, who battles the rare DYRK1A syndrome. Tracey opens up about the trials and triumphs of navigating late diagnoses, osteoporosis, and hip fractures while ensuring Kaylee's safety during the pandemic. With courage and conviction, she talks about the unpredictable nature of caregiving, the peace she finds in her steadfast faith, and the crucial role of support systems that allow her to find respite and balance.

Join us as we explore the profound themes of purpose and hope in caregiving, examining the unity and strength it can cultivate within families. From the transformative power of early morning prayers to the unexpected blessings born from personal struggles, Tracey's story is one of resilience and inspiration. Her insights on sharing stories to foster connection and encouragement highlight the comforting power of compassion, while reminding us of the importance of seeking professional advice for challenging situations. Tracey's journey shows us how life's toughest challenges can lead to growth and unexpected opportunities, underscoring the power of shared experiences and faith.

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How do you navigate caregiving when your life takes an unexpected turn? Join me, Rayna Neises, as I chat with Carol Leathem, who found herself in this exact situation a decade ago. When her husband, a pastor, faced mental health challenges, Carol stepped into the role of caregiver, redefining her identity and reshaping her life. Our conversation explores these identity shifts and the profound lessons learned through caregiving, not just for her husband but also for her mother, while keeping her own family's needs in balance. For those in similar shoes, Carol's experiences, and her ministry born from these trials, offer a beacon of hope and support.

The journey through mental health and Alzheimer's caregiving is fraught with emotional complexities, and Carol and I share our personal stories to highlight the importance of patience, grace, and empathy. Whether it's dealing with a parent's passive-aggressive text or supporting a spouse through a mental health crisis, understanding that emotions often outweigh facts is crucial. We discuss practical strategies to manage such challenges and stress the importance of crafting personalized coping mechanisms. 

Faith becomes a cornerstone in the caregiver's journey, offering solace and guiding us through the most demanding times. We close with an invitation to join a community of caregivers, encouraging listeners to seek professional advice when necessary and to approach their caregiving roles with hope, faith, and a sense of contentment.

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When Steve Powell became the default caregiver for his mother, he never imagined his journey would lead to a groundbreaking innovation in elder care. His story, fueled by love and necessity, reveals how personal experience can be a powerful catalyst for change. Discover how Steve's transition from tech entrepreneur to advocate for the elderly and disabled inspired him to create a transformative lift device that restores dignity and independence to countless individuals.

Listeners are introduced to IndieLift, Steve's innovative solution designed to address the limitations of traditional lifting tools. Motivated by the challenges faced by his parents, particularly his father's struggles with falls and dementia, Steve's invention is a testament to the blend of technology and empathy. This episode offers hope and encouragement to caregivers and families, showcasing the significant impact that one person's determination can have on the lives of many.

Join us for a conversation that underscores the importance of combining compassion with technology to improve lives. Steve Powell's journey is not just about solving a technical problem but also about honoring his parents' legacy and extending that care globally. From revolutionizing home care solutions to safe patient handling in hospitals, Steve’s mission reflects a profound commitment to maintaining dignity and independence for all.

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Can you imagine navigating the challenges of caregiving while maintaining a deep and loving relationship? Join us as we sit down with Joan Borton, a remarkable family caregiver, writer, and disability advocate, whose journey with her husband Jerry, who was born with cerebral palsy, is nothing short of inspiring. From their first connection at disability conferences to building a life together through heartfelt calls and emails, Joan opens up about the transition from being Jerry's paid caregiver to his life partner. Her story is a testament to the power of love, faith, and resilience, as they champion their mission through Luke 14 Exchange Inc. to mentor and support others affected by disability.

In this heartfelt episode, we explore the balance between personal and professional caregiving, diving into the demanding physical and emotional challenges that often accompany this role. Joan candidly shares the lessons learned in selflessness, the importance of self-care, and the significance of making loved ones feel valued. Through personal anecdotes, such as an unexpected power chair malfunction, Joan reflects on living with intention, loving well, and caring without regret. This conversation is a profound reminder of the compassion required in caregiving and the strength drawn from facing life's trials together.

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Imagine walking alongside someone with the strength to face a brain tumor diagnosis, heart attacks, and stroke-like symptoms. Today, we’re honored to have Diana Derringer join us, sharing her transformative journey as a caregiver, filled with resilience, adaptability, and wisdom. As Diana recounts the complexities of managing memory issues and fatigue, you’ll be moved by the reality of what it means to find a new normal after each health crisis. Her narrative is a testament to the power of a strong support system and the remarkable ability to continuously adjust and thrive despite life’s challenges.

Laughter and joy are not typically associated with caregiving, but Diana’s experience suggests otherwise. She reveals how hope and humor can be as healing as medicine, offering an uplifting perspective on the caregiver’s path. From performing CPR to witnessing the light-hearted moments that hint at recovery, Diana’s stories highlight the importance of choosing happiness even during the toughest times. It’s a powerful reminder that, even in the grief of caregiving, there is a place for positivity, laughter, and an unwavering human spirit.

In a compelling reflection on life’s ebb and flow, we delve into how caregiving can unexpectedly enrich our lives. Diana shares how opening their home to international students became a new mission field and now the Lord has broadened her impact worldwide through her writing. Join us for these stories of hope and inspiration and discover how embracing change can lead to contentment and a profound sense of purpose.

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Our latest episode shares the touching story of Sandra Kaiser, an Alzheimer's advocate and caregiver. Her experiences with family members facing dementia reveal the unexpected blessings and challenges of caregiving. Sandra shares her poignant story of supporting her mother, brother, aunt, and uncles through their struggles, emphasizing the power of family resilience and the importance of community in times of need. Alongside touching anecdotes, discusses the genetic nature of Alzheimer's, adding depth to our understanding of this complex disease. Sandra's dedication to advocacy shines through as she discusses her plans to establish a non-profit in her family's honor, fostering education and support within communities.

Listeners will find inspiration in Sandra's reflections on documenting family memories, where the bittersweet moments of caregiving bring cherished childhood stories to light. As she recounts humorous exchanges with her brother and her mother's vivid recollections, we are reminded of the laughter and nostalgia intertwined with the caregiving journey. This episode also underscores the vital role of community support, advocating for open conversations about Alzheimer's to reduce fear and stigma. Sandra's insights provide a powerful reminder to focus on what truly matters, embrace the support of others, and live each day without regrets, trusting in a higher power along the way.

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Cindy Morton-Egger takes us on an emotional journey through her nearly 40-year experience as a caregiver, sharing insights that resonate with anyone who is navigating the complexities of caring for loved ones. Through her stories, Cindy opens up about the trials she faced while caring for her mother, particularly during the turbulent period following a family divorce and the loss of her brother. Her narrative is a moving testament to resilience and the unexpected blessings found in times of adversity. From confronting the challenges of her mother's COPD to finding strength in her bond with her mother-in-law during her battle with pancreatic cancer, Cindy’s journey is a beacon of hope and inspiration.

What strategies are crucial when it comes to difficult caregiving decisions, like taking away car keys from elderly parents? Cindy addresses this and more, sharing the delicate art of therapeutic lying to manage challenging situations and ensure the well-being of those she cares for.  Cindy also reflects on the importance of finding emotional support and the surprising ways in which some of the hardest caregiving moments became cherished memories. The episode sheds light on the balance between caregiving responsibilities and personal growth, revealing how resilience and faith can guide one through seemingly insurmountable challenges.

This episode underscores the vital role of support systems and professional counseling in caregiving, reminding us of the power of faith and the importance of nurturing family relationships. Join us as we offer hope and guidance to family caregivers.

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Discover the heartwarming and challenging journey of Tracee Loran, a New York City-based writer, actress, and producer, who beautifully balances her vibrant city life with the profound responsibility of caring for her 97-year-old grandmother in Mississippi. Tracee's story is rich with insights on the evolving dynamics of caregiving, as she and her mother alternate six-month shifts to support her beloved grandmother. Our conversation shines a light on the depth of their bond and the significance of truly cherishing the moments spent together, emphasizing family love and resilience.

Tracee shares her personal journey of overcoming challenges, including her initial hesitation due to a weak stomach, revealing the unexpected rewards of stepping up as a caregiver. Her narrative is an ode to empathy, faith, and drawing strength from spiritual beliefs, family, and the community. Listen as she candidly discusses the emotional and physical demands of caregiving, highlighting the support system that has helped her navigate these trials with grace and gratitude. Her story is a powerful testament to finding inner strength and compassionate help for long-term caregiving.

Unravel the complexities of assembling a reliable caregiving team as Tracee opens up about her strategy of reaching out to local churches, showcasing the power of community, prayer, and patience. With honest reflections on the necessity of self-care and maintaining personal goals.  Tracee's experience offers invaluable lessons on preventing caregiver burnout, setting personal goals, and embracing life's challenges with kindness and patience. Join us for an inspiring episode that encourages us to support our loved ones with unwavering love and empathy.

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Imagine taking on the profound responsibility of caregiving in your mid-20s, facing the daunting challenges of supporting loved ones through cancer, Alzheimer's, and mental health struggles. That's exactly what Debra Lee did, and in our latest episode, she shares the heartwarming and sometimes heart-wrenching experiences of her caregiving journey. From the delicate art of balancing safety with autonomy, to the unexpected joys that illuminate the path, Debra's story is a testament to resilience and the power of family support. As she opens up about her father's passing and feeling a divine presence that brought comfort, listeners are invited to explore the emotional growth that caregiving fosters.

Debra also sheds light on her mission to empower women through her poignant writing. Her books, "It Is What It Is, That It Is" and "Making Wise Choices, the Most Important Life Skill to Master," provide guidance and hope to women overcoming adversity, including those transitioning from prison or rehab. Through her mentorship, Debra inspires listeners to embrace empathy, understanding, and faith in their caregiving roles. This episode is not just about navigating the challenges of caregiving but also about finding peace and contentment in life's toughest moments, ensuring a loving life without regrets.

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What if letting go of expectations could bring you peace and resilience during the most challenging times? Join us as we explore this concept with Lani Almanza, who has navigated an extensive caregiving journey—from caring for her son who passed from a brain tumor to caring for her parents.  Lani’s heartfelt story offers invaluable insights into the emotional and physical demands of caregiving, emphasizing the importance of self-care and practical tools that can make a world of difference.

We also dive into the emotional complexities of long-term caregiving. How do relationships evolve, and what role does breath and gratitude play in maintaining well-being? Lonnie shares personal experiences underscoring the power of breath as a spiritual and practical tool in caregiving. She also highlights the significance of maintaining a gratitude journal to cultivate a positive outlook, even in the hardest times. This chapter is a must-listen for anyone looking to thrive amidst the responsibilities of caregiving.

Lastly, we underscore the critical importance of asking for help and sharing the caregiving load. Rayna and Lani discuss how caregivers often feel the need to appear strong, which can hinder them from seeking much-needed assistance. Learn the value of being specific in your requests for help and recognizing those in your support system. Lani also gives us a glimpse into her current work with the nonprofit "Gimme a Break" and the joy she finds in caring for her grandchildren, reminding us of living content, loving well, and caring without regrets. Tune in for an episode filled with wisdom, inspiration, and practical advice.

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What if you were suddenly tasked with balancing the care of your aging parents, your spouse, and your children all at once? Join us as we unravel the compelling story of Ruthie Gray, from hospital visits to homeschooling her daughters, Ruthie’s unwavering faith and resilience transformed her into the primary advocate for her family's medical needs. Her journey is a testament to the power of love, determination, and the human spirit in the face of adversity.

In this episode, Ruthie also delves into the essential support systems that allowed her to find balance amidst her caregiving duties. Learn how services like Meals on Wheels and state-funded assistance helped her reclaim her role as a daughter and not just a caregiver. Ruthie opens up about overcoming depression and discovering her calling even during her caregiving season. She emphasizes the importance of journaling, seeking wise counsel, and connecting with God to find one's next steps. Tune in to hear more about Ruthie’s book, "Empty Nest Awakening: Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose," and her podcast, "Authentic Online Marketing with Ruthie Gray," for valuable insights on balancing personal dreams with caregiving responsibilities.

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In this episode of 'A Season of Caring Podcast,' host Rayna Neises interviews Mark Applegate, a family caregiver with a passion for supporting those affected by dementia. Mark shares his experiences caring for his mother, who battled dementia for 14 years, offering poignant stories and insights into the ups and downs of caregiving. 

They discuss dealing with genetic predispositions, the surprises and challenges of dementia care, and the importance of community and spiritual connection. Mark also talks about the therapeutic benefit he found in documenting his journey through his blog, Digital Cornbread. 

The conversation provides hope and practical advice for other caregivers navigating similar paths.

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What happens when faith, flexibility, and family intertwine in the challenging role of caregiving? Judy Bone, an inspiring author, speaker, and Christian image consultant, joins us to share her powerful journey of moving closer to her 95-year-old mother and mother-in-law to provide the care they needed. Judy recounts her experiences of relocating, transitioning her mother to an assisted living facility, and balancing the often complex dynamics of caregiving with the importance of maintaining strong family relationships. Through her story, she shares the necessity of flexibility, forgiveness, and cooperation in ensuring the well-being of our aging loved ones, and how her faith provided a steady anchor during tumultuous times.

Discover the profound impact of bringing joy and laughter to elderly parents, the unpredictability of caregiving as illustrated by Judy's mother's accident, and the essential role of resilience. Judy shares a poignant reflection on her own journey of faith, including a life-altering surgery that reshaped her future. She also introduces her book "In His Glow," offering listeners wisdom and encouragement. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of the blessings hidden within caregiving challenges and a reminder to seek professional guidance for any legal, financial, or medical concerns. Whether you're a caregiver or simply looking for inspiration, Judy's story is bound to touch your heart and uplift your spirit.