profile-Geralyn
How did you become the caregiver for your loved one?
My son was born with down syndrome. My mother acquired dementia, and a dear friend, sustained a traumatic brain injury in a car accident.
Has your relationship changed with the loved one that you are caring for? If so how?
Although my mother and Friend have since departed, I continue to be a caregiver to my son who is now 28.
What is the hardest thing about being a caregiver and the most rewarding thing?
The hardest thing is trying to maintain balance, As well as self-care and finding moments to be with others. The most rewarding thing is to know that I did and continue to do my best.
What advice would you give to other caregivers?
To show up. To be present. To give people their power. To recognize that in someway, it is what you had to do and that it is a good thing for you as well.
In ten words or less, what has caregiving taught you?
Be there fully. Respect. Listen.
Describe a situation where being a Fearless Caregiver helped you succeed?
I wrote a memoir and I continue to reach out to caregivers in my podcast. I’m really proud of these products, and grateful to those who helped me, these people I love, to tell and continue to tell my story!
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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.