Earlier this month, Huntington’s Disease News published an article by Becky Field, highlighting the importance of sharing our stories with other caregivers, so that we may feel less alone.
I love reading articles like this because it reminds me of the need to build community with other caregivers, something that is easier said than done.
Becky shares what it felt like to meet Melanie, who cares for her brother with Huntington’s disease: “Melanie and I talked about the common threads among all carers, including self-doubt, shock, denial, frustration, anger, sadness, and guilt…
I, too, felt that heavy burden, being the only one to care for my loved ones. Before the term “carer” was casually applied to me, I’d simply seen myself as a sister, mother, and daughter. Afterward, I felt moments of self-doubt. Was I good enough? Was I going to mess up?”
I’m sure all of us can relate to the feelings Becky mentions above; me personally I often deal with self-doubt and frustration… it’s hard. And it feels even harder when I isolate from other caregivers because it feels like I’m doing this alone, that no one else can possibly understand what I’m going through, which is not true.
If you’re a caregiver in Montana that takes care of a family member and / or clients, reach out! Let’s build community and keep in touch. Join our Facebook group by clicking HERE or email us at [email protected].