“The late Glen Hinshaw and Laird Landon were facilitating the Caregiver Support Group that I started attending in 2016. It was Glen’s gentle suggestion that I join the Caregiver Support Group to seek help for the caregiving journey that was to be an eight-year commitment to my parents.

My parents were very lucky to have lived in their home until their mid 90’s. But, at 96 years old everything started falling apart for them. I became a long-distance caregiver for them and eventually I was faced with moving them into a nursing center. There were many problems along the way and needless to say I was not prepared for what was ahead. I was learning on the fly and it was hard for all of us.

I attended the Caregiver Support Group meetings for close to six years. I heard many stories from other caregivers and learned many helpful ideas on how to cope with difficult situations. Most of all I learned that I was not alone, that many people in our community were experiencing the same ups and downs in their caregiver journeys, too.

Many, many thanks to Laird and Glen for having the tenacity to start the Caregiver Support Group, where it was certainly needed in Montrose.”

“My name is Janet Green. I am the caregiver for my 86 year old father on his journey through dementia. We have been on this journey for several years, however in the last two years his decline has taken a toll to the point of having to move him into a facility, sell his home, and take over all of his finances. As I am the oldest of four siblings, the Power of Attorney stated in his will, and the only child that resides in the same town, the responsibility has fallen in my lap. During the roller coaster ride of dementia, the ever changing behaviors, the physical and emotional exhaustion of being responsible for someone else as well as myself, I became so worn out and depressed that my doctor referred the Caregiver Support Foundation and Laird Landon to me. I am forever grateful for this group of new friends, the compassion we all share for one another, and the priceless knowledge to feel that I am not alone in this journey with my Dad. I understand this can be a long road to travel with a loved one and I feel stronger now being able to share my feelings and questions with the people who are traveling this same road. We can support each other and lift each other up and that helps to give me the courage to face another day.”

“I felt strong in the beginning. I had ample time to give care. But, as time went on, I started getting worn out, tied down and overwhelmed with the day-to-day irritants. Family and friends close to the situation didn’t understand that it was taking a toll on me. I was living the life of the Lone Ranger caregiver. A friend encouraged me to attend a caregiver support group. It was just the outlet I needed. When people are living and walking in your shoes, they understand what stresses you are experiencing. It’s so helpful to have a group who listens and understands what it means to be a caregiver.”

“I was overwhelmed when I realized my husband had early stage Alzheimer’s. I didn’t know what to do. I didn’t even realize I was grieving until I was gently reminded at my first meeting. For weeks and months I heard, witnessed, and learned from others. It was like lifting a veil after a dark storm each week.”

“We vacationed in this area for many years and moved here to retire. In just a few years my wife began having symptoms of dementia. I didn’t plan on retirement turning out this way. I was beside myself grieving the loss of our relationship. Our doctor suggested I connect with a caregiver support group. I was with people who get it. I cried, laughed and was lifted up emotionally. I listened and learned and soon began connecting with the resources I really needed. I got my life back and I’m a much better caregiver.”

“I came to the caregiver support group because my friends and family aren’t very supportive and don’t understand the challenges I face each day of my life. I needed to know there are other people who are caregivers who understand. They listen to me without judging. They don’t tell me what to do, but they share their own experiences and ideas. They have made my caregiver journey a little easier. The compassion and empathy I’ve felt from the group has helped to calm my raw emotions, especially anger, and given me energy and hope to continue to live life the best I can.”

“I was attracted to the support group because my wife was getting too difficult for me to handle physically. My health was giving out and I didn’t have any idea where to begin to get the help I needed. The support group members gave me so many helpful suggestions, guidance and compassion to help me see that I was not the only one in my situation. They referred me to lots of sources that helped me.”

“I got some wonderful information on names of people and places to help me take care of my husband who has Parkinson’s. I was pleased to know I could get rides from transit to have cataract surgery. The group was very supportive of the people in the group, and I also received their support. What a wonderful group and leaders that have helped me in days in which I was overwhelmed. Thank you all for the help and encouragement. I appreciate you all and wish you the best.”

“Thanks Laird and Bill for leading the Caretaker group. I got some wonderful information on names of people and places to help me take care of my husband who has Parkinson’s. I was pleased to know I could get rides from transit to have cataract surgery. The group was very supportive of the people in the group, and I also received their support from them. What a wonderful group and leaders that have helped me in days in which I was overwhelmed. Thank you all for the help and encouragement. I appreciate you all and wish you the best.”

“Bill, after the meeting today I sat in the car and said ‘wow I got this! I’m doing this!’
Your and Melanie’s validation that I really am on track helped me to recognize this is my life. I must live it and do the best I can do.”