This morning, on Table Talk on Your Caregiving Journey, Kristin joined me to give us an update. As you remember, Kristin talked two weeks ago on Table Talk about being a burnt-out caregiver. You can listen to today’s show via the player, below.
Between our two conversations, Kristin took a five-day break, provided through Mary’s Hospice benefits. And, the break did its trick for Kristin. She feels better and sounds it, too. She plans to take a five-day break every three months.
I’d love to know: When will you take your next break? And, how will you spend it? Please share in our comments section, below.
Listen to internet radio with Denise Brown on Blog Talk Radio
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You are a disruptor. The delivery of health care starts with you, continues because of you, and ends with you. Let's disrupt together to make the world better for family caregivers. 
Francine
I have been a caregiver for my husband for almost 13 years (next month). I have had a overnight here and there, but that’s about it. I have cared for him through my own battle with cancer. He is like having a child that never grows up! He can’t be left for long, I have to give him his baths, fix his plate, etc. But unlike a cute, fun little child, no one ever wants to watch him! And a respite place is very expensive. I had planned to send him to one last summer, and then he needed some emergency dental work done that took all the money I had saved and more! I am lucky in that I am able to leave him while I go grocery shopping, but I would never leave him to go on a day trip! It’s my life too – I wonder how long I will be able to drive, get around, etc. And here I am stuck at home constantly. And being my husband….it may sound selfish, but I miss the Christmas gifts, the Valentine’s gifts, the conversations, the helpfulness, the hugs, the love. (He suffered brain damage with his stroke and can’t always get his thoughts correct, nor does he like to be touched for any type of hugs, etc.)
Trish
Great show, Denise & Kristin! I just listened to the podcast but am truly sorry I missed the always entertaining chat room.
Kristin, I’m so happy you were able to take your break and that you were able to do more than you anticipated. I’ll be keeping my fingers crossed you will find someone to cover Tuesday mornings. If you can’t, I’ve been in writing groups/classes before and would be interested in starting an online writing group with you (and whoever else is interested). Thanks for a great show!
kristin
Francine, if you haven’t had your husband evaluated by Hospice for the Choices Program, it might be worth your while. They might find something that qualifies him. Then you would get some help. I pay nothing for the respites they provide for Mary.
Trish, I’m game for the online writing group!
Trish
Fantastic! I’ll email you and we can get started. If anyone else is interested, let me know.
annmullen
Wow Kristin, it sounded like you had a great time. Getting away is so important. I have visited my dd in Austin a few times, leaving my sister with multiple times a day visits from church sisters, but I always feel guilty and I’m afraid she will have a fall and I won’t be there. I find doing my work in my home office gives me mental freedom that helps me be calm with her in the evenings when we watch murder and mayhem. Francine, I know what you mean about going out shopping. That’s about as far from home as I go. I am so glad I found you all.