Stories from Caregivers: Cathy from TEXAS
TX
Cathy
FROM TEXAS
Hello. I'm a spousal caregiver for my husband, Lincoln. He was just 49 years old and at the peak of his career as an oil industry scientist when he had a stroke. I was 43 years old at the time and our children were 14, 10, and 8. He did survive a catastrophic stroke and has worked incredibly hard to regain some mobility and some cognitive ability. Fast forward to today, 6 1/2 years later and we continue to carry on. Our children are healthy and happy. We are all very grateful but do not negate the fact that we are also grieving the loss of Lincoln's independence, cognitive brilliance (and he retains much still), and a "normal" family life with the freedoms that come with it. I feel strongly, especially for the emotional health of our children, that we acknowledge grief. And yes, there are major financial worries as well when a family loses it's major breadwinner. With support from a fantastic local day center called the Amazing Place I was able to confidently access part time care for my husband so I could return back to work part time (paying for college is SCARY) and utilize my expertise as a Registered Dietitian while combining it with my NEW expertise as a caregiver. I work with a non-profit program called BridgingApps where we focus on the ability of mobile devices and apps to help adults and children with disabilities, seniors, and caregivers with therapy goals, education goals, and managing health/medical care. My husband calls his mobile device his "second brain" he has completely engaged in all that it can do for him. :) Most importantly for myself, it has been EXTREMELY rewarding to have a VOICE to share my experiences as a caregiver and my perspective as well as resources. I value other caregivers' stories and experiences as THE experts in the "trenches". We all have so much to offer each other and that is where I get my strength. There are definite down days, hard days, sad days...but I tell you, it is amazing what a "people fix", a nice bit of exercise, your children' laughter or the bright beautiful sun can do to turn things around mentally. I long for a true way to connect more with other caregivers in efforts to help each other...both in person/in town and virtually. And on that note, I send out warm wishes to each of you and know if we were face to face a big, true hug would be our parting ways.
