Stories from Caregivers: Shamyia from MISSOURI

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Shamyia

FROM MISSOURI

My name is Shamyia, and I take care of my grandfather, Richard. My grandfather is a veteran and a very strong willed man. He didn't believe in nursing homes, and he wanted to stay home because that's where he felt comfortable. Unfortunately, his home was very old so he moved in with my mother. My mom and I took shifts caregiving for my grandfather until my mom got pregnant and it become all my responsibility. I didnt mind because family is number one to me. My granddad has cancer and a g-tube. He is weak from strokes and can't walk, so yes it was challenging but I knew how to deal with it because I'm a Certified Nursing Assistant and I take care of the elderly everyday. Caring for a family member is important because trust me it gives them hope that theyll get better and they love being around loved ones. I love my grandpa and I would do anything for him.

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