It’s been a very interesting and busy year for me. In February my granddaughter got married, and my book came out; both the same weekend. In March my grandson got married and I started thinking about the purpose of my book, Behind The Mask. A secret journal started when my husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease in 1993. It was secret because we were advised not to tell anyone, as he was still working, and highly functional.
In 2000 his diagnosis was changed and a few years later I showed my husband my journal. He said publish it, maybe it will help someone else.
A few years later I did publish it. And now I knew the purpose of the book. To show people what’s it’s like standing in the shoes of a caregiver. You don’t know about anything, until you do stand in someone’s shoes, and only then can you understand, truly understand.
In April of this year I started using Adopt A Caregiver in my blogs. In May I applied for a trademark, which I am still waiting for.
For the next several months, I met with and spoke to groups, all receptive to Adopt A Caregiver. Many of these people helped me, introduced me to other people who also became interested in my vision of wiping away some of the caregivers tears. We, my husband and I started a Non Profit Foundation.
In October and November, I was literally laid out for nine weeks from a severe bout of Chronic Fatigue which resulted from a shot.
Now as I look back over the year, I am proud of what I have done, and I feel that I have barely scratched the surface. I see 2009 as a huge stepping stone for my vision of Adopt A Caregiver.
I spoke at the Henderson Senior Center this morning, and I can’t tell you how much these wonderful people have done for me, and with me. Allowing me to speak at the center several times, helping me, supporting my vision and just being nice folks. Thank you so much guys, you all really got me started on my new journey.
It all begins in the community. Where you live, work, go to school, church, synagogue, all your social clubs, whereever you congregate with the same people, you hear things. You know someone has just become a caregiver, or someone is really lonely and depressed, and wishing they had a friend. Reach out, don’t hesitate, they need you.
Give the gift that lasts forever, and costs nothing. Adopt A Caregiver, and tell them your friend Helene sent you.
Only you have the power to forgive yourself; care giving is a tough journey, don’t beat yourself up if you can not do everything yourself.
Keep love and kisses in your life. Helene
