So… I quit my job to become a full time caregiver for my mom 🎉 it has been a long time coming and I’m thrilled! I’ll still need to find ways to make money, but I hope y’all will come along on this journey with me! 💜 #caregiver #ENDALZ

It was a seemingly small question, but I could feel tears welling up immediately. I had no idea what that meant to me until it happened. If any of my followers are in the medical field, please consider asking caregivers how they are doing. It may be exactly what they need.

An incredible thing happened this week. A doctor looked at me directly and asked, “How are you doing?” It was the first time anyone in the medical field has ever asked me how I am doing in my 6+ years as a caregiver. ⬇️

Another moment of joy! Little ducklings walked right by us yesterday 🐥🦆🐥 #dementia #caregiver

Happy National Chocolate Ice Cream Day from mom and me! When the local news mentioned what day it was, we decided we’d go to the store and pick some up. Always find a reason to celebrate, right? 😆🎉

Quick update - the company ended up allowing me to verify by telling them the date the POA was signed. It took me a second to look it up, but I was able to do that. All a bit of a hassle, but at least it got resolved 👍

I told them I couldn't answer that either because mom can't even remember working there, let alone the date she retired. So now I'm waiting for it to be escalated and have someone call me back. Sometimes I can only laugh at how much our systems are NOT ready for dementia.

WTH?! Is this a common question? I have no idea when I mailed them the POA. Mom signed it in 2018 when she had Mild Cognitive Impairment and I've sent it multiple places since then. They said the other option was to give the month & year mom retired from the company. (2/3)

I made a call on behalf of my mom (who is living with dementia) today. Years ago, I sent the Power of Attorney to the company so they’d have it on file. The verification they needed to talk to me on the phone? “What was the month & year you sent us a copy of the POA?” (1/3)

Thanks for all the support I received with my last post 💜 Mom and I found many of moments of joy this last week, despite the tough moments. Hugs to all! #dementia #endalz

Thanks for the kind comments 💜 they are coming in too fast for me to keep up. I love my mom more than anything, and we have wonderful days together. But that doesn't mean there aren't moments that are tough 💜 as with all things, there is bitter with the sweet. Hugs to all

I’m struggling today. This morning when mom asked me, “What’s your name?” it felt like it broke me. This isn’t new. Heck, yesterday she thought my name was Mary. But each little moment adds up and it wears you down. Loving someone living with dementia is so f’ing hard.

The way I feel when my friends greet my mom the same way they would greet anyone 💜💜💜💜 #alzheimers #dementia #endalz

Their best suggestion? I was told I could “wait in the lobby.” For anyone creating programs for older adults, please don't exclude people who need caregivers. You're missing out on a wonderful group of people 💜 (3/3)

I offered to pay the membership fee for both of us, but since I'm not at least 50 years old, I was told there wasn't an option for me. It’s incredibly unfortunate to exclude individuals whose caregivers are under 50! All I wanted was to sit next to mom while she played Bingo.

I'm annoyed. My city has a membership program for older adults. It gives access to fun activities like bingo, potlucks, and line dancing. I called today to sign my mom up, but I quickly learned I can't come along with her as her caregiver. (1/3)

Pool day!! Getting in water helps mom have pain-free movement — plus fun and relaxation 💜 To quote mom: “This is heaven!!” #caregiver #dementia #endalz

To the dog owner at the store: You made my mom’s day. Thank you, thank you, thank you for taking the time out of your day 💜 #itsthelittlethings

My mom can’t remember what city she lives in. She can’t remember the steps to make a cup of coffee. But she can still play her favorite card game! ♠️♥️ Never assume you know what someone is capable of 😊 People may just surprise you! #endalz #Alzheimers

Is there such a thing as a vulnerability hangover? Every time I let my guard down and let myself be vulnerable, it takes a day or two for the resulting anxiety/overthinking to subside. Just me?

PS - our local library gives out free museum tickets using your library card. I'm not sure how common this is, but it’s a great program