Hi everyone,

I am new to Curezone and have just discovered this forum.  I thought I would visit here, as caregiving is dear to my heart.

I was my mother's caregiver for four years.  The only regret I have is that I knew nothing about alternative medicine.  If I had she would still be with us.  Yet, I will say, I was good and I became most proficient in all her ailments.  Even better than some doctors.  I would point out when they were wrong and insist they administer the proper treatment.  Little did I know that the proper treatment was killing her too.

By the time I got it, by the time I realized that these medicines were killing her, it was too late.  Hospice was coming to the house and all I could do is give her care with all the love I could muster.  And yet, I knew nothing about alternative medicine.  I had nowhere to turn.

Everyone I have spoken to has had a wonderful experience with hospice.  I did not.  While my mom was in hospice nobody explained anything to me so I woke up each morning wondering what to expect.  My only friend was Patti, the aide.  She would take the time to sit down and explain things to me.  She cared. 

In a hospice situation it must be realized that the caregiver is also undergoing a crisis situation.  Caregiving for a loved one is debilitating and exhausting, physically, mentally, and emotionally.  Those in the medical field treat the patient but the caregiver fends for himself/herself.   Yet, these were the happiest years of my life.

Now I visit nursing homes and do certain activities with seniors.  These are my moms and dads now.   If I were ever required to go to work, I would enter the caregiving field.  And yes, I would change diapers at any hour of the night for them.  In many nursing homes the night staff leaves them wet and dirty and the residents are too afraid to say anything.  If you have a loved one in a nursing home, please be aware of this. 

Anyway, I came across this article.  The first sentence warmed my heart, as that is how we caregivers feel.

"Tammy Faye is in the last stages of colon cancer, which has spread to her lungs. Her daughter, who has devoted herself to caring for Tammy in her home, has said, “This is what you do when your mother is sick.” That pretty much sums up how most “family caregivers” feel about caring for their loved ones.  They do it because that’s what you do."

Of course, we know that Tammy Faye has passed on and her daughter is left grieving.  The first year is the worst.  Then you pick up your life and start living again.

Here is the article for you caregivers out there.

http://www.healthcentral.com/caregiver/manage-43676-5.html?ic=4019

Hugs,

Luella May

I have partnered with Tony Isaacs and am now proud to be a natural care advocate.  I welcome you to visit his forum, Ask Tony Isaacs featuring Luella May You will find him to be very knowledgeable in many areas.