A Season of Caring Podcast

When the unimaginable becomes your reality, where do you find the strength to move forward? Laura Atkins opens her heart to us, detailing the profound journey as a mother and caregiver to her son, Wyatt, who bravely faced the trials of Coats-Plus syndrome. Through love-laced stories, Laura describes Wyatt's resilience in dealing with no diagnosis, the emotional toll of frequent hospitalizations, and relentless bone fractures. Her voice carries the weight of a mother's love and the unspoken bond of family as she reflects on the joy Wyatt brought to everyone around him, despite his own suffering. This episode is not just about the struggles, but also the extraordinary growth that comes from such profound caregiving experiences. Laura's daughter, Harper, emerges as a beacon of hope, her empathy and maturity far surpassing her years. Waytt's story is shared with raw honesty and emotional depth, and extends a hand to those who may feel alone in their caregiving battles, offering a sense of community and understanding. Join us for a conversation that celebrates the human spirit's capacity to thrive under the most strenuous circumstances, leaving us all with lessons in love, advocacy, and the enduring power of faith and family.

Imagine walking alongside someone with the strength to face a brain tumor diagnosis, heart attacks, and stroke-like symptoms. Today, we're honored to have Diana Derringer join us, sharing her transformative journey as a caregiver, filled with resilience, adaptability, and wisdom. As Diana recounts the complexities of managing memory issues and fatigue, you'll be moved by the reality of what it means to find a new normal after each health crisis. Her narrative is a testament to the power of a strong support system and the remarkable ability to continuously adjust and thrive despite life's challenges.Laughter and joy are not typically associated with caregiving, but Diana's experience suggests otherwise. She reveals how hope and humor can be as healing as medicine, offering an uplifting perspective on the caregiver's path. From performing CPR to witnessing the light-hearted moments that hint at recovery, Diana's stories highlight the importance of choosing happiness even during the toughest times. It's a powerful reminder that, even in the grief of caregiving, there is a place for positivity, laughter, and an unwavering human spirit.In a compelling reflection on life's ebb and flow, we delve into how caregiving can unexpectedly enrich our lives. Diana shares how opening their home to international students became a new mission field and now the Lord has broadened her impact worldwide through her writing. Join us for these stories of hope and inspiration and discover how embracing change can lead to contentment and a profound sense of purpose.

Steve Powell's story is a beautiful example of how love and necessity can spark innovation. Rayna Neises had the honor of discussing Steve's mission to create a world where the elderly and disabled can rise with dignity.  His invention was born from witnessing his own parents' struggles, a challenge he met with a blend of compassion and creativity.Steve Powell recounts the painful reality of his parents' frequent falls and inability to get up on their own due to health issues and its impact. Driven by a divine nudge and his parents' plight, Steve, a creative technology expert, invented a life-changing device. This invention not only helped his mother regain her independence, preventing falls for nine months, but also marked a turning point for many others facing similar challenges. IndeeLift transformed from a personal mission to a global endeavor, improving lives and allowing people to age in place with dignity.Our discussion wasn't just about the mechanics of caregiving; it was about the soul behind it. We discussed how faith intertwines with compassion, how innovation can uphold the dignity of those we care for, and how emotional and practical support can transform the caregiving landscape. Steve's journey and the solutions offered by IndeeLift.com stand as a beacon of hope, showing us that through ingenuity and empathy, we can make a profound difference in the lives of those we love.

Navigating the complex currents of caregiving from afar, our guest Liuda, a retired pharmacist with a heart as vast as her experience, invites us into her world of love, loss, and devotion. She talks about the emotional challenges of taking care of family members who are far away.  Liuda shares personal stories of her father's passing, dealing with dementia, and inheriting the care of her brother who lives with a traumatic brain injury.  Through her stories, she shines a light on the difficulties faced by long-distance caregivers.This conversation isn't just about the hurdles; it's an homage to the pillars of routine, balance, and unwavering faith that support us when the ground seems unsteady. As I weave in my own caregiving experiences, we unravel the threads of spiritual resilience that bind us to our loved ones, even through resistance and emotional storms. Liuda's reflections and my shared stories serve as a beacon to those finding their way through the many experiences they navigate without full assurance of the best decision, holding a mirror to the importance of prayerful guidance in these demanding roles.Ending on a note of profound insight, we discuss how embracing the uncontrollable elements of life is essential, especially as we accompany our loved ones on their final journeys. Liuda's wisdom teaches us to walk this path with love, support, and the hope that we might live and care without regret. As our session closes, we leave our listeners with the courage to face their own seasons of caregiving, bolstered by community, faith, and a heartfelt reminder that even in the toughest times, we are far from alone.

Terri Liggins' journey from Las Vegas back home to Columbus, Ohio, was not just a change in location, but the start of her caregiving story that she passionately shares with us on the Season of Caring podcast. Losing her father, taking care of her mother, and dealing with life during a global pandemic is a story that many of us can relate to. Terri openly shares the challenges and unexpected blessings of caring for a loved one, giving listeners a heartfelt look into the realities of preparing for life's uncertainties.Terri recounts her and her mom's transformation by the remarkable benefits of a raw, plant-based diet. Our discussion also touches on the solitary nature of caregiving. Terri and I emphasize the critical need for self-care to prevent burnout, underscoring that caregivers must replenish their own wells to continue giving to others. This is a testament to the power of dietary choices and the delicate balance caregivers must navigate to maintain their own well-being while supporting their loved ones.The episode culminates in an exploration of innovation within the caregiving community, as we delve into Terri's creation of a caregiving app, 4th Quarter Lifestyle . This tool will stand as a beacon of support, offering resources, legal assistance, and community connection to those who give so much of themselves. This celebration honors the stories that unite us, the power we gain from shared experiences, and the sense of empowerment that results from easily accessible and professional assistance. Join us for a conversation that acknowledges the resilience of those in the trenches of caregiving and offers a dose of inspiration for anyone navigating this season of life.

Experience the courageous story of Yolanda Lucas as she fearlessly shares her heartfelt journey of providing care for her mother for 15 years.  Her path has taken her from the sidelines of support to the forefront of advocacy in the intricate realm of medical care. We talk about how caregiving can reveal personal growth, resilience, and strong family connections. We learn about Yolanda's life, which has been full of challenges, successes, and meaningful moments. In this soul-stirring episode, we also unwrap the wisdom discovered by Yolanda as she opens up about the profound moments of divine intervention and the invaluable resources that have been instrumental in supporting her journey. The way she tells her story is a powerful reminder of the fine line between taking care of a loved one and taking care of oneself, as well as the vital support found in communities such as NourishForCaregivers.com. Yolanda's courage and honesty will inspire you as she shares a story of hope and a plan for navigating the complexities of caring for her mother and herself during this challenging time.

When you meet someone who navigates life's hurdles with grace and a smile, you can't help but want to delve into their story. That's precisely what we do with Joan Borton, a disability advocate whose marriage to Jerry—a man living with cerebral palsy—is a beacon of love, faith, and dedication. Joan opens her heart to us, recounting the evolution from their serendipitous meeting to the deepened bond that caregiving has woven into their partnership. She isn't shy about the obstacles: managing a long-distance relationship pre-marriage, financial tightropes, and the emotional whirlwind that comes with caregiving. This tale is not only about struggles, but also about celebrating the intimate joys and unspoken understanding that grows in a relationship supported by both partners.This episode offers more than just a peek into the life of a couple; it provides a wealth of valuable insights for anyone embarking on a caregiving journey. Joan, with her transition from professional to family caregiver, sheds light on the profound emotional shifts, the protective instincts that surge unexpectedly, and the life lessons that emerge from selfless service. We face challenges and experience love and frustration in caregiving, finding contentment in serving others. Joan's experiences serve as a powerful reminder that fully embracing our roles, whether in marriage, faith, or caregiving, can bring us immense strength and deep contentment.

 Althea McIntyre joins host, Rayna Neises, in this episode. She shares her perspective on the connection between caregiving, faith, and personal growth. They delve into the rich tapestry of caregiving, sharing insights from their own experiences with their fathers. From the intense demands of high-need periods to the tranquility of more stable times, exploring the full spectrum of emotions and responsibilities that define the caregiver's role.Contemplating the impact of creating significant moments, such as Althea's life-changing adventure to Aruba alongside her father, which have the power to bring immense happiness and satisfaction to the caregiving journey. Also discussing practical ways to adapt activities to maintain engagement and connection, such as creating a garden driving tour for a loved one.The episode ends with discussion about the deep spiritual and personal change that can come from taking care of someone else. Through caregiving and experiencing loss, we often recognize the presence of gods in our lives and face the challenge of replacing them with the one true God.Althea shares her expertise in spirit-led sales and explains how combining faith with business skills can bring success. She also invites listeners to join her upcoming five-day challenge.This episode combines resilience, hope, and the enduring spirit of human connection, providing a source of inspiration for caregivers on their own journeys.

Caregiving, in its rawest form, is an odyssey of love, loss, and resilience that can both break and fortify the human spirit. Witness the profound journey of Tammy Marvin as she shares her experiences of bidding a sacred farewell to her mother, father, and sister. Through her sorrow and strength, you'll find solace in the invisible threads of faith and family that hold us together, even as the physical world tries to pull us apart.Tammy's voice resonates with the echoes of a blended family's love, and the episode is laden with moments that reveal the tender balance between joy and challenge in caregiving. The tales unfold to show how spiritual awakenings and the warmth of shared laughter can pierce through the veil of mundane routines, creating a haven of memories and silent strength. Tammy's stories are a testament to the unexpected gifts that caregiving can bestow upon the ones who walk alongside those nearing life's final threshold.This episode is not just a conversation; it's a beacon of guidance for those navigating the turbulent waters of caring for a loved one. It underscores the necessity of a robust support system and the art of maintaining balance amidst the storm of emotions. Tammy's insights on self-care and finding peace in grief shine a light on the path to emotional well-being. Her wisdom serves as an intimate roadmap for fellow caregivers, reminding us that even in the toughest goodbyes, one can find the grace of a life well-loved and a departure free of regret.

When Minty Swanson agreed to join me on the podcast, I knew her story would resonate with anyone who has ever loved deeply and fought fiercely. Minty bravely opens up about her role as a caregiver for her husband, Chris, weaving through the complexities of multiple cancer diagnoses during the isolating times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her narrative is a testament to the resilience and humor that can spring from the heaviest of hearts, providing a beacon for those navigating the rough seas of terminal illness within their own families.Our conversation takes us into the heart of caregiving grief, a type of mourning that begins far before a final goodbye. Together, we uncover the small, cumulative losses that quietly stack up, from the missed bike rides and date nights to the shifting dynamics of a partnership in the shadow of illness. Minty shares how the brain's defense mechanisms kick in, and we ponder the spiritual solace that can arise in the mist of nature or the sanctuary of faith. With a course on the horizon to support those in the caregiving trenches, our discussion offers a roadmap to acknowledging grief as the first step on the path to healing.In what becomes a soul-stirring reminder, Minty and I explore the vital importance of self-care amidst the demands of caregiving. She shares how she anchors herself in the present, finding joy in life's simpler moments and the creative outlet of mixed media art. In prioritizing her own well-being, Minty offers a blueprint for caregivers to maintain balance and lean into the steady embrace of faith. This episode is more than a conversation—it's an affirmation of the strength found in love, hope, and the shared bond of those who answer the call to care for others.

Join Rayna Neises as she learns about the mission of The Grand Baby Project with Tonja Moon, founder. In this touching episode, Tonja unravels her personal narrative of caring for her dementia-stricken grandmother, revealing the unexpected calming power of lifelike baby dolls and they offer joy and a sense of purpose to those battling with memory loss. As we traverse Tonja's journey, we uncover the triumphs, the struggles, and the surprising response of men with dementia to this therapy.But that's not all. As we delve deeper, the conversation sheds light on the pivotal role of caregivers, the unsung heroes within the Alzheimer's and dementia community. Tonja and Rayna, drawing from their personal experiences, discuss creative hobbies and ways to support loved ones, reminding us of the importance of cherishing small moments. Learn how you can contribute to the Grand Baby Project and make a difference in the lives of dementia patients and their caregivers. So, sit back, grab a cup of your favorite brew, and prepare for a heartfelt journey into the world of caregiving and the heartwarming work of the Grand Baby Project.

Ever found yourself in the middle of a caregiving journey, feeling overwhelmed, yet strangely blessed? You are not alone. Join me, Rayna Neises, as I welcome Peggy Bode, a fellow caregiver who sheds light on the complexities, challenges, and rewards of caring for loved ones - specifically, in-laws. Peggy shares a memorable tale about her father-in-law's unique love language - giving treats. This story and others serve as refreshing reminders that there's joy, warmth, and God's presence to be discovered even in demanding caregiving moments.We also dive into the intricacies of caring for aging loved ones, discussing the delicate act of balancing their independence with the care they require. Like a well-read book, our elderly loved ones possess a lifetime of wisdom and experiences, and we explore ways to honor this. Peggy also opens up about her faith, revealing how it serves as an anchor during turbulent times. Moreover, we emphasize the critical role of self-care, an often overlooked aspect of caregiving. You'll leave with practical tips on how to find God amidst the chaos, and the crucial importance of pausing to recharge. So, tune in for an inspiring journey that promises to leave you encouraged and emboldened in your caregiving journey.

When it comes to caregiving, every journey is unique and filled with its own set of challenges. Imagine being the primary caregiver for a loved one battling with health issues like cancer and a vagus nerve condition. That’s the story of our guest today, Pamela Durand, who courageously took on these demanding responsibilities. Her experiences and insights, including the difficult decision of taking away her father’s driving privileges, empathize with the often silent battles caregivers endure, highlighting the importance of empathy, communication, and support.Navigating through the different seasons of caregiving, we focus on the experience of caring for aging parents. We delve into personal reflections and share anecdotes, exploring the difficult conversations and emotions that arise. Additionally, we discuss upholding the dignity of our loved ones while offering them support. We emphasize respecting and understanding the traditionalist generation and the often-overlooked complexities of caregiving. Finally, we ride the emotional rollercoaster of caregiving, where we share our experiences and advice on managing the unexpected. We discuss the need for continuous communication, managing amplified emotions in older individuals, and the surprises that caregiving brings. Join us, as we learn, grow, and find hope in the world of caregiving.

Have you ever wondered what it's like to care for a loved one with dementia while raising you kids? Join us as Jill Pietroburgo shares her heartwarming journey of caring for her mother and raising her children. Jill, an early childhood special education and co-founder of Eagles Wings Ministry, gracefully and lovingly navigates the complexities of dementia caregiving. She offers a unique perspective on the challenges and successes of this journey. Jill's story takes us from the onset of her mother's illness, through the difficulties of finding suitable care, and ultimately, her mother's passing. She shares emotional moments, like helping her mother say goodbye to her older sister, and talks about the different, sometimes surprising, aspects of caregiving. But it's not all challenges and heartache; Jill explores how caregiving can serve as an expression of Christ's love, and the importance of teaching children to love and respect their aging grandparents.Beyond just sharing her personal experiences, Jill provides guidance and hope for fellow caregivers. She shares about her first children's book- a tool for parents helping their young children understand dementia and her contribution to Content Magazine's autumn 2023 edition. Whether you are a caregiver or know someone who is, this episode provides valuable insights for navigating the challenging, yet fulfilling journey of caring for someone with dementia. 

Do you find yourself struggling with the complex dynamics of caregiving? Meet Lil Glamben, someone who knows firsthand how caregiving can change and strain a relationship. Lil faced numerous challenges while caring for her mother and stepfather during her own menopause journey. Despite facing challenges, she approached them with unwavering faith, which led her to not only overcome them, but also experience profound personal growth and uncover unforeseen paths to healing. Lil talks openly about caregiving and highlights the important but sometimes unnoticed parts of this challenging task. She emphasizes the importance of respecting her mother's wishes, even if it meant being less involved than she had planned. By doing so, she was able to provide the support her stepfather needed and then care for him, which led to a profound journey of healing. Lil’s story reminds us of the importance of finding help during tough times. It offers inspiration for others going through similar situations.As our conversation comes to an end, we delve into the significance of nurturing oneself, embracing joy, and creating meaningful daily rituals throughout the menopausal journey. Lil explains how understanding multitasking and serving others can bring about positive changes, leading to more happiness and fulfillment. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration during their midlife caregiving season. 

Have you ever felt the weight of the world on your shoulders while caring for a loved one suffering from a debilitating disease? Dr. George Ackerman knows that feeling all too well. He opens his heart and shares his personal journey of caregiving for his late mother, Sharon, who battled both Parkinson's and dementia. His poignant narrative about the challenges he faced in ensuring proper medication and making the difficult decision to keep her at home is bound to resonate with many listeners.Dr. Ackerman's dedication to raising awareness about Parkinson's disease is evident in his tireless work with the Together for Sharon. He also emphasizes the importance of movement for those living with Parkinson's, a simple yet crucial aspect that greatly impacts their quality of life. His family's trials and tribulations with his mother's dual diagnosis, as well as the support they received from the American Parkinson's Disease Association, offer a realistic look at what life is like for caregivers and their loved ones.In the final segment of our conversation, George finds the strength to share uplifting stories and offer messages of hope and resilience. Through his platform, Together for Sharon, and his advocacy work, he continues to inspire and support those who are navigating their own seasons of caregiving. Tune in to hear how Dr. George Ackerman's experiences serve as a beacon of light for others amidst the challenging world of caregiving.

Ever grappled with the emotional rollercoaster of being a caregiver? Join me for an enlightening chat with Gaylynn Green about her experience caring for her mother with Alzheimer’s. Gaylynn talks about her initial fears when she started noticing her mother's dementia symptoms. She also shares her struggles to make her concerns understood by her mother's doctor. Challenges of caregiving from afar led to moving her to Gaylynn's home for better care.Gaylynn’s story reveals the touching beauty of her mother’s character. Despite her disease, her mother always managed to find moments of humor and share a glimpse into her personality. We touch on the crucial role faith played in providing Gaylynn with strength and peace. Listen to her internal conflict between not wanting her mother to suffer and the fear of losing her. Gaylynn’s journey highlights the indispensable need for patience, love, and a strong sense of advocacy in caregiving.A key take-away from our conversation is the importance of self-compassion during these challenging times. As caregivers, it’s easy to overlook our needs. However, it’s vital to remember to be kind to ourselves. We talked about the importance of trusting our intuition, asking for help when necessary, and finding healthcare professionals who appreciate the caregiver's point-of-view. Gaylynn’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and the vital role of advocacy in caregiving. Immerse yourself in Gaylynn’s inspiring journey and extract valuable lessons that can guide your caregiving journey.

What happens when a strong-willed single mother becomes the caregiver for her father? How does that journey, full of emotional roller coasters and challenging realities, transform her life? In this episode, we are introduced to Tenita Abraham, a dedicated daughter who embarked on this journey of caregiving. Tenita's story is not just about caregiving but also a testament to love, faith, and resilience - a story that will tug at your heartstrings.Tenita Abraham, who has personally encountered the trials and obstacles of caregiving, graciously imparts to us her invaluable insights on navigating her father's dementia-related behaviors. But it was those moments of joy, like racing down hospital corridors with her father, that kept her going. She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and the necessity of taking breaks, a reminder we all need when dealing with challenging periods in life. Finally, how Tenita used social media as a window to broadcast her experiences and  wisdom gained during her journey as a caregiver. Her story serves as a beacon of hope for others walking the same path. So tune in to hear Tenita's story, a narrative of caregiving, love, faith, and resilience. It is a shining example of finding humanity and hope amidst the complexities of life.

Imagine the peace of mind that comes with being prepared for the inevitable. Christy Byrne Yates, an educational psychologist, author, speaker, coach, and consultant, shares how her parents' careful planning for their later years gave her the valuable gift of preparedness. Christy explains how being prepared helped her transition into the role of caregiver for her parents, who both had dementia, and how it affected her and her family.Treading further down the path of caregiving, we delve deep into the challenging terrain of grief while our loved ones are still alive. Christy shares a peek into her emotional journey, highlighting the significance of embracing and expressing these raw feelings. She found writing letters to God, as a robust pillar of strength and resilience during these trying times. Christy inspires caregivers to be kind to themselves, find strength in God, and navigate the caregiving journey with grace and patience by sharing hopeful personal stories. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of caregiving, a testament to the power of preparedness, and a guide to finding strength amidst grief. Tune in to my conversation with Christy Byrne-Akes, and embark on a journey towards compassionate caregiving.

The challenges of Alzheimer's care can be complicated, but our engaging conversation with Jennifer Fink will shed some light on this often daunting journey. Hear her heartwarming and sometimes hilarious tales of caring for her mom, including the mystery of the black sports bra. Fink, a beacon of support in the Alzheimer’s community through her podcast, Fading Memories, opens up about the difficulties and joys of her caregiving season.As we laugh with Jennifer over the wardrobe fiascos, we also tackle the tough topics. Staff at facilities, mischievous residents, and the overall unpredictability of Alzheimer's – it's all part of the caregiving package. Jennifer shares her recipe for surviving and even thriving in the face of these challenges: a dash of humor, a dollop of grace, and a whole lot of resilience.We round off our conversation exploring the lessons learned and the silver linings found in the cloud of Alzheimer's care. Jennifer insists on finding joy amidst the rollercoaster of emotions, cherishing the small moments of beauty and comfort. She leaves us with her hopeful outlook on life, a mantra of positivity that will undoubtedly resonate with listeners. Tune in for a unique blend of heartwarming stories, laughs, and perhaps even a few tears. You won’t want to miss this insightful episode.