Fearless Caregiver Profile: KYLEE McDOWELL

How did you become the caregiver for your loved one?

Five years ago my 28 year old son was diagnosed with Primary Progressive MS. I should add that he was perfectly healthy up to that point.

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

For well over ten years he was independent, now he is dependent on me for almost everything. He can't walk he can hardly feed himself. I was hoping he would take care of me when I'm old, now we switched roles. Its just the two of us.

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

My home is not wheelchair accessible so he falls a lot and its really hard for me to help him up. Also lifting the wheelchair in and out of my car. Life has gotten tremendously harder. The most rewarding thing is my son's great outlook on life.

What advice would you give to other caregivers?

Its different being a caregiver by profession or "choice" then being one by obligation to a loved one. We do what we have to 24/7 without much appreciation. Take a break and have some fun.

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

Patience

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

My son's positive outlook keeps me from feeling depressed and hopeless.

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.