Finding Our Way

"Leslie grew up knowing she had a Grandfather Phil who had a lifelong illness. She would watch her Grandmother Gretchen care, love, and dote on him endlessly. That was her first real example of watching a caregiver in action. The endless issues he faced with pain and walking, and then watching it take over their lives. Phil passed away at home, as Gretchen comforted him, and we all said good-bye. That is what taught her, what a caregiver does. How resolute, hard, loving, and lonely it can be. Throughout her life she had seen more of this generous side of others giving time, love, patience, and themselves to others. Many years later, she would assist with her own father, Tom. Tom’s journey with dementia, stroke, and various surgeries, lead him to his passing in a nursing home. Two years later she was the sole caregiver for her aunt Helen, in a whole other state. Ten days later Helen passed in a hospice facility. Many various experiences have led her to helping others and eventually writing this guide. Caregiving to her is so much more than bed pans, prescriptions, and appointments. It is also the bills, home maintenance, and funeral planning. As you read her guide, you will find many examples, and personal suggestions that made her pull her hair out, cry and laugh!" --