Stories from Caregivers: Eugene from PENNSYLVANIA
PA
Eugene
FROM PENNSYLVANIA
I cared for my father, a stroke victim and my mom a dementia/alzheimer victim for 10 years during this time period I stayed in their home every night with an occasional break by one of my sons. During the day my wife would prepare their meals and give them care and the state did help with some care during the day Monday thru Friday. I had two wonderful parents and I promised I would keep them home at all cost. However it did wear on our family over this ten year period. After seeing the damage it did to my wife and the boys I do have some regret. Myself I would do it again just to have the pleasure of doing it but my wife suffers from depression still today. I think a lot of people would probably would have did what I did however they should think of their family members and the impact it will have on them. During this time period we cried a lot and on occasion we were able to laugh. I wouldn't want to mislead anyone this is a heart wrenching job and I often wonder how we as a family did it. At one point I was treated for anxiety for a four year period. I do commend anyone who is a caregiver and I do pray that they may endure but it isn't easy.
