What a gorgeous morning it is! I sit next to my sweet daughter surrounded by flowers, cards and an ocean of Valentine’s from the friends and family that I have come to call our “global family”.

This is a quick update today since one of the “constants” in the world of Caregiving is that there never seems to be enough time! Ha ha! Yes, the less time– the more that you need to call on that sense of humor!

As I continued doing some research last night in preparation for some of the speaking that I’m going to be doing on Caregiving, I found a great article in the Washington Times and then I discovered a wonderful website today actually entirely on Caregiving. They had a great article which expanded on some of the tips that I shared yesterday: http://www.caregiving.com/2017/02/how-to-talk-with-family-about-caregiving/ .

I wanted to expand briefly both on that article and on mine. As I read through her fabulous tips and insights and thought about my own experience, it struck me that a HUGE “secret”/ tip in our own experience had been to “allow” friends and our “global family” into our caregiving circle.

The Love and Support of Others to the Caregiving Family Can Make All of the Difference in the World!

It was AMAZINGLY soothing to simply see constant words of support and encouragement and appreciation from all of our friends– and ultimately from people who didn’t even know Schuy or me. I would DEFINITELY  encourage the family to stay connected with the world– even if it’s through updates on Facebook.

You will be amazed at the amount of love and generosity in the world– from corners that you never imagined. Do not assume that you and your family must face this alone.

And friends– your support can be a POWERFUL component to assist a family in crisis. YES, help to set up a fundraiser for them. Create a positive video that will help to drive their campaign. Create a playlist of “audio flowers”. Send decorations for the hospital room (no flowers or balloons though for an ICU) and home. We have had our global family send amazing quilts, paintings, aromatherapy— ideas are endless. Friends and relatives can uplift and inspire during this journey more than you know. Do jump in and volunteer. Do vocalize your support. Do think of creative ways to surprise and delight!

Our global family has been a true force to be reckoned with! Have an amazing empowered day, everyone! Go on out and make it the world that you dream that it can be!

Sharing Love, Time and Energy Can Make the Difference in a Patient and Caregiver’s Life!