Finding Your Tribe

They say ole’ dogs don’t learn new tricks. Which may certainly be true, but I did learn a new and extremely effective phrase when helping caregivers understand the benefit of joining a support group.

Before last Saturday’s Fearless Caregiver Conference in Evansville, Indiana, I used to talk to caregivers who were worried about joining a support group because they didn’t want to sit around and “hear whining about other attendee’s caregiving situations” and tell them to go three times to an appropriate and well-led group when you found one.

The first time you go, it very well may seem like you parachuted into a raucous holiday get together of a family you have never met before. The second time, you might start recognizing yourself in the words of your fellow attendees, but I have never heard of a caregiver going to such a group three times and not coming home and jumping on the phone to tell everyone about this wonderful new concept they discovered.

First, I want to thank Michael Halling and the wonderful folks at SWIRCA, the area ADRC and their lovely Ivy Room where the event was held.

Thanks also to Deaconess Hospital and Lisa Reed at American Senior Communities. I also want to thank my good friends at Caregiver Homes for their active participation. Jennifer Trowbridge, Indiana State Director and her terrific team (sorry, if I left anyone out) Lisa Bennett, Nicole Hearn, Lindsey Boots, April Griffin and Brooke Johnson. You really need to learn about the CaregiverHomes concept as a family caregiver.

Anyway, it was a very lively, sharing and warm group that cold day (ok, I’m a weather wimp, 50 degrees is cold to me). I was also glad that PASATS, an incredible Parkinson’s support organization in the tri-state area was represented. One of their family members stood to answer why support groups are so very important for caregivers and she said in three short words what it takes me at least 10,000 to say. She said that finding the right support group is like “Finding Your Tribe.” Boom. Drop the Mic. Walk Away.

We have all known that found tribe feeling before, in school, at church and even with family members. A good support group is a safe and comforting, honest and open place filled with wisdom, advice, shoulders to cry on and even laughter.

Now who wouldn’t want to belong to a tribe like that?

Please join us In Tallahassee, Florida on May 22 for our next Fearless Caregiver Conference

Please share your thoughts and stories about caregiver support groups (or anything else) below.