When the unexpected diagnosis of Lewy body dementia struck Carla Preyers's husband, she found herself thrust into a role she never anticipated. "The journey chose me," she explains, recounting the four-year battle for a proper diagnosis and the profound challenges that followed. This conversation reveals the often-invisible struggles caregivers face when supporting loved ones with dementia.

The emotional heart of this episode lies in Carla's honest discussion of caregiver self-preservation. Her commitment to morning prayers, positive environments, and regular exercise wasn't just about wellness—it was survival. "I had to manage my energy," she shares, explaining how negativity directed at someone with dementia "comes back to you triple." Her story has now found wider resonance through the documentary "Facing the Wind," executive produced by Yo-Yo Ma, Yolanda Wong, and David Hyde Pierce, which chronicles the journey of dementia caregivers across America.

Are you caring for someone with cognitive decline or concerned about a loved one showing symptoms? Reach out to Carla through the links on our show page to learn how you might bring the "Facing the Wind" documentary to your community and join the growing advocacy movement for better dementia care and caregiver support.

Carla's Story 

My husband, Patrick Preyer, was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia in 2018. For eight years, I walked alongside him as his caregiver until his peaceful transition in January 2023. Through heartbreak and healing, I learned how vital faith, community, and support are—especially for caregivers who often feel invisible.

That journey is now told in the documentary Facing the Wind, which candidly captures our experience with dementia, caregiving, and the importance of self-care. This film was born out of connection—sparked by the Lewy Body Spouses Support Group on Facebook—and nurtured into a message of hope and resilience.

I'm proud to share that Facing the Wind premiered at DOC NYC, one of the nation’s leading documentary festivals, and was recently featured on People.com. The film is executive produced by Renée Fleming, Yo-Yo Ma, and David Hyde Pierce.

As a caregiver self-care coach, I now dedicate my life to supporting those who give so much of themselves. While organizations like Voices Inclusive Research focus on providing a voice in clinical research to the community, my passion is to amplify the voices of the women caring behind the scenes—quiet heroes who need to be seen, supported, and sustained.

Clips and Media 

Documentary Clip

People Magazine Feature

Facebook Page 

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