75yrs

female

Speaks English

I cared for my dying mother when she was diagnosed with Lewy Bodies disease. Her care involved bathing, cooking, feeding, dressing, all of her hygienic needs, and transportation. Lewy Bodies disease has the unfortunate side effect of times of total lucidity. It leaves the patient fearful and confused. The caregiver needs to be emotionally supportive and composed at all times. I was also the primary caregiver for my husband for 3 years when he was diagnosed with terminal cancer. I learned to care for his bodily needs when he had an Ileostomy. My husband also suffered from severe depression the result of a severe brain injury due to an automobile accident. I am very familiar with mental illness. During the time he was fighting cancer, the doctors cut him off of his antidepressants thinking that he had bigger issues to deal with. The result was that he became catatonic. I learned from personal experiences with loved ones that every sick person needs an advocate who can speak for them when they cannot. Unfortunately, the lack of monetary compensation is held as some form of judgement on my talents and skills. I am compassionate and kind. I am patient and understanding.