Gina
Caregiver for Husband & mother
“This amazing trip made it possible for me to unwind and remove myself from my deep well of grief and anguish...”
We were honored to host Gina and her sister Roxann for a very special week of respite in October 2019.
LPH: What did this trip mean to you?
The past three years have been extremely difficult with my husband’s diagnosis of CIDP (Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy) which left him paralyzed from his mid-chest line to the tips of his toes. It took many years to advocate for him to get the best neurologist and when we finally did, the disease had progressed to where treatments did not work, and the prognosis was grim. I had no time for me except when I was away from home working pastoring a church, and that’s not considered me time.
Gina (left), her sister, and their beautiful smiles at the cottage.
Most if not all my life, I’ve loved to serve and care for others and think very little about caring for myself. With the addition of my mom becoming terminally ill this year [I was] spreading myself pretty thin caring for both. As much as I love my husband and mom, this was beginning to take a huge toll on me physically, mentally and emotionally.
This amazing trip made it possible for me to unwind, remove myself from my deep well of grief and anguish as well as not having to be responsible for the constant care of others who remain in my household. It also gave me time to bond with my youngest sister. I cannot remember the last time that I actually felt free from care and worry.
LPH: Why is it important for caregivers to have time away?
Most caregivers I know labor tirelessly to make sure their loved one is comfortable and forget all about themselves. The idea of being away gives the caregiver permission to regroup, release and revive.
LPH: How do you feel after having some time to yourself?
My mind is much clearer. I know now how very important it is to make time for myself on a regular basis. We walked around downtown Wilmington and I had forgotten how great I feel after walking or exercising. I don’t know how to thank all who were involved with planning, preparing, financing, greeting, etc. I hope there are others who can benefit from this awesome experience.
