Fearless Caregiver Profile: JOLIE STRATTON

How did you become the caregiver for your loved one?

My spouse had a stroke in 2011 resulting in her being totally dependent

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

Yes. It is a real struggle when you going from being a 50/50 couple to 90/10. We are still grieving the things we hoped to do in our retirement, like traveling, that are just no longer possible. I am tired all the time from being the sole caregiver.

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

The hardest thing would be losing my independence to come and go as I please and the most rewarding is knowing that no matter what comes my way I can do it

What advice would you give to other caregivers?

Reach out for help. Be specific in ways friends and family can help. Find someone to vent to other than your loved one.

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

I am not a patient person.

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

I hate talking on the phone. Now that I am a Fearless Caregiver, I have to make myself make the necessary calls and each time I feel more like a successful adult.

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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.