Category: BOOKS
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When Caregiving Becomes Part of Who You Are—and You’re Still Trying to Find Yourself
1348 Words. Average 5 Minute Read Time. I can’t name a person who woke up one morning and announced, “Hey! Today I am becoming a caregiver.” That’s not how it works. Life happens first. The roles come later. “I didn’t begin caregiving with a title, a plan, or a calling neatly written out before me. I…
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The Art of Finding Yourself Again: What Fiber Arts Can Teach Us About Caregiving and Isolation
This piece emphasizes the importance of creativity for family caregivers, showcasing a group called Yarns of Blessings who create handmade items for those in need. Engaging in creative outlets allows caregivers to reconnect with their interests and find renewal amidst responsibilities. Personal fulfillment and acts of kindness can coexist, enriching both the caregiver’s life and…
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I Wish Someone Had Given Me This When I First Became a Caregiver
I wish someone had given me a little book when I first became a caregiver. I didn’t want a manual full of medical terms. I wouldn’t have had time to read or understand it. I also didn’t need a checklist of tasks. I already felt overwhelmed by all I had to manage for my loved…
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Speak. Trust. Receive. A Caregiver’s Prayer When You Don’t Understand
Sometimes the most powerful thing a caregiver can do is admit, “I don’t understand—but I trust You.” That was one of the messages at the heart of our August 20th family caregivers meeting. We gathered for an afternoon of what I call Care & Prayer, where group members fellowship, have honest conversations, and find encouragement. Our…
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Why Family Caregivers Inspired My Book
The author reflects on their deep love for her sister and mother, emphasizing the pressure of caregiving after a divorce. Despite seeking help, she felt isolated and responsible for her family without a support network. Establishing a caregiver support group has become a passion, aiming to provide understanding and resources. She wrote a book to…
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As Seen On… Awesome G…
Awesome Gang recently featured Beating the Isolation Trap, sharing the story behind the book, why I wrote it, and my passion for helping family caregivers overcome isolation and reconnect with hope.
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Making Connection for a Better Church Experience
The seminar “Inclusion and Advocacy in the Church,” co-facilitated by Chatequa Pinkston, highlighted the underrepresentation of individuals with disabilities in churches, with 80% of affected families reportedly not attending. Advocating for inclusivity and building supportive communities can empower caregiver families and enhance church participation, fostering connection and understanding among members.
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Sometimes Life Happens Before You Get a Chance to Celebrate
A few weeks ago, the Ocala Gazette shared news of my book, Beating the Isolation Trap: An Authentic Caregiver’s Guide to Reconnecting, Recharging and Thriving. I meant to share it. Then, well…life happened. 😊 Perhaps that’s fitting. Caregivers know better than most how quickly life can rearrange the calendar. Am I right, caregivers? So, as the Ocala Gazette celebrates six years…
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How I Reconnected with an Old Hobby and You Can Too
One way to reconnect this month, even with caregiving duties and responsibilities, is to engage in low-pressure community activities. 🌿 Some suggestions recommended by loneliness and aging researchers include restarting a hobby, joining a gentle exercise class, or participating in a faith-based group. 💛 Hello! That’s right up my alley! 😊 I’m not trying to humblebrag. I only want to…
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How to Plan for Respite
Sometimes we need a change of scenery. This post reveals the ways one caregiver coordinates her breaks and what she looks for when choosing a provider. In three (3) video parts. 3 videos and 3 tips from a family caregiver on finding respite care outside of the home.