Fearless Caregiver Profile: LUANNE JABBONSKY

How did you become the caregiver for your loved one?

My husband was diagnosed with Parkinson's at age 50 in 2000 and dementia about 10 years later.

Has your relationship changed with the loved one that you are caring for? If so how?

We used to be a team, shared parenting, household responsibilities, etc. I had never lived on my own & he is 8 years my senior. I was accustomed to giving his opinion a great deal of weight. Over the past 16 years, I have had to take on EVERY responsibility.

What is the hardest thing about being a caregiver and the most rewarding thing?

The hardest thing about being a caregiver is overcoming your fear & not allowing it to paralyze you. The most rewarding part of caregiving is recognizing that this truly is a labor of love. This isn't what we planned, but I take very good care of my husband.

What advice would you give to other caregivers?

I was in shock & denial for years after my husband was diagnosed. Caregivers need to deal with the uncomfortable paperwork a Durable Power of Attorney, Estate Planning, etc sooner rather than later.

In ten words or less, what has caregiving taught you?

Consult experts. Make use of the help that's out there.

Describe a situation where being a Fearless Caregiver helped you succeed?

My husband was misdiagnosed for about a year. Some are reluctant to question a doctor. I was such an emotional wreck that I could not figure out what to do. I told a friend that my husband was clearly declining, but the doctor did not have a satisfactory answer.

Fill Out Your Own Fearless Caregiver Profile

Fearless Caregiver Profile: Join us as we celebrate Fearless Caregivers sharing personal stories as we care for our loved ones. Read this week’s Fearless Caregiver Profile and feel free to add your profile as well, so we can learn from and share with our fellow caregivers.