The Dutiful Daughter Newsletter Is Back!

I’m excited to announce that the Dutiful Daughter’s Guide to Caregiving newsletter is back in circulation! You should receive an emailed copy on November 13th, 2022 if, at some point, you joined my list of subscribers. Be sure to check your Spam filter, just in case. This website is still the place to visit if you’re a caregiver looking for encouragement and down-to-earth practical advice. You’ll also find inspiration and suggestions for rediscovering yourself through art and other creative pursuits, which can be a powerful form of self-care no matter where you are on your caregiving journey or beyond.

So, pour yourself a cup of coffee or tea, pull up a chair, and keep reading. Just like my book, I want you to feel like you’re sitting down at the kitchen table with a good friend (albeit a mouthy one) who understands what you’re going through.

I do hope you’ll stay with me!

xoxo
Judith

Caregivers Make Things Happen

A few weeks ago, I was talking with a good friend who is a caregiver for her beloved mom, recently diagnosed with cancer. The thing is, it’s not enough of a burden to be worried about the disease itself. Often, it’s also about the financial aspect of a major illness, especially medication costs that can be prohibitive, regardless of insurance coverage.

Amazingly enough, my friend was able to obtain grants (based on financial need) to pay for her mom’s cancer meds through two foundations. One is the Lilly Cares Foundation and the other is the PAN Foundation.  In a nutshell, The Lily Cares Foundation helps with certain  medications they make and market by providing the drugs to eligible patients at no cost.  The PAN Foundation will cover out-of-pocket medical costs for eligible participants.

I was thrilled for both her and her mom, yet she was hesitant to take any credit for making this happen, saying that all she did was fill out forms. Since the application was based on “need,” she had no influence to exert over the outcome.

That’s when I realized how important it was to share this thought with her and with you. Caregivers are the unsung heroines and heroes of our society; continually making things happen for those you care about, and very often working behind the scenes with little or no recognition. Non-caregivers may not have a clue, but those of us who’ve been in your shoes understand just how much time and energy it takes, and you are seen, heard, and appreciated.

“Take the kudos,” I told my friend. “You are freaking awesome.”

 

Early Morning Inspiration

 

Instead of staring at the ceiling when it’s 3 AM and I can’t sleep, I go on the Internet and make lists of helpful links to share with my newsletter subscribers. This batch is definitely worth checking out during  your caregiving journey and beyond.

Happy Healthy Caregiver
Founded by Elizabeth Miller. Her focus is integrating self-care and caregiving. Elizabeth’s many offerings include helpful caregiver resources, coaching, and product recommendations.

Working Daughter
Founded by Liz O’Donnell. The subtitle of the site is “Eldercare, career, kids, and life.” That pretty much says it all. Liz also offers an active FaceBook page and a paid membership option.

Caregiving Advice
Founded by Michelle Seitzer. She hosts a wonderful Monday (11 AM EST) coffee chat for caregivers via Instagram. Love how she openly and honestly explores both the ups and downs of caregiving while offering emotional support, helpful apps, websites, and tools.

Six Great Questions To Ask Elders
One of my deep regrets as a caregiver was not seeking out my dad’s opinions on a variety of subjects as he got older. He had a great fear of becoming irrelevant and I know now that taking time to really talk with him about his thoughts and feelings would have been a gift for both of us. This list of questions would be a great conversation starter around the holiday table.

Easy Crafts For Adults
Honoring your own creativity can be a powerful form of self-care both during and after caregiving. Even fifteen minutes a few times a week can give you a chance to breathe, and offer a break from the pressures you’re under. While not on the list, don’t forget coloring books (there are tons of them geared to topics like florals, mandalas, Zen Tangles, etc) and a variety of crayons, colored pencils or paint markers can be found at a variety of stores.

If you have a few favorites links of your own, email me at Judith@JudithDHenry.com They may show up in future blog posts and I’ll be sure to credit you for the recommendation!!

Caregiver Postcard Set Available

I’ve been wanting to create a Caregiver Postcard Set forever – a bit cheeky, while letting  you know someone understands what it’s like to be a caregiver. You’ll find one or two mild swear words (at least compared to my vocabulary), but most of all I’m hoping their gentle humor will make you feel a little less alone in your thoughts and feelings.

If you’re interested in getting a closer view of each card or purchasing an assorted five-pack of them with envelopes, they’re available to view or order HERE , the Gifts & Cards Gallery at my art website, JudithHenryCreative.com.  Once you get there, just fill out the purchase form and I’ll send you a PayPal/Credit Card invoice. Quantities are very limited at this point, so don’t delay!

NOTE: A set of cards coupled with a copy of the book makes an awesome gift for someone!