Stories from Caregivers: Gem from NORTH CAROLINA
NC
Gem
FROM NORTH CAROLINA
My Grandma Janine was my first best friend so when she had a stroke I dropped out of school to come home and help take care of her. I love spending time with her and hearing all the funny stories of her growing up. I've been her care taker for 2 years now and it's definitely saddening to see her deteriorate right in front of my eyes. My once energetic and fun loving grandma not ever recognize me anymore. She has developed Alzheimers and needs constant supervision so for me that means being home with her everyday. I now take classes online so I can continue to pursue my dreams while making sure she is taken care of. Being a caregiver is a selfless job and for me I have no social life outside of taking care of my sweet granny. I think that if we had the money a in home care giver that comes in a few hours a week would be nice. I don't get to take much time for myself so I do get burned out. I am responsible for making and serving her meals. I make sure she has a bath and clean clothes to wear. If she has an accident I change her diapers and bathe her. The highlight of my day is combing her hair and doing her make up. My grandma loves to look good even if we are only going to sit on the porch. Although I don't get much time to call my own but I do get to have this time with my grandma. Lots of love, laughs and memories that I will cherish even after she's gone.
