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When the Caregiver Needs Care
This is my 21st year as a family caregiver. The day came, as I knew it would, when I needed care myself. After having odd symptoms for a couple of months I contacted my Mayo Clinic primary care physician. Tests were ordered and they showed a dark spot on my tummy. A surgery appointment was made for me. As it turned out, I had stage one uterine cancer and needed a hysterectomy. Who would care for my husband? Again, I contacted my husband's primary care physician, and she referred me to a social worker. My husband had just been hospitalized for pneumonia and was very weak. The social worker arranged for rehabilitation at a local facility. He has made progress and is coming home tomorrow. I write for The Caregiver Space website and am working on an article about being a caregiver when you need care yourself. If you haven't thought about this, I encourage you to do so, and prepare for the possibility. Like the Scouts, caregivers need to be prepared.
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Hi Harriet,
I'm so sorry to hear about the uterine cancer but am glad that it was found while still stage 1. Have you already had your surgery?
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2 ReactionsYes, I had my surgery. The tissue samples revealed stage 1 uterine cancer and I had a hysterectomy. I'm doing amazingly well and eager to resume my normal life and writing schedule. My Mayo Clinic physician praised me for listening to my body, noticing my symptoms, and taking action. I'm grateful to all the Mayo Clinic people who helped me.
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4 ReactionsHello @harriethodgson1
I am so glad to hear that you are doing well. I also admire the way you sought support for yourself and your husband during your time of recovery from your surgery.
Self-care is an important part of life and you set a marvelous example for caregivers. I am looking forward to reading the article you mentioned you are writing. It sounds like an important message to send out to others!
Teresa
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2 ReactionsAs a new member but with 16 years of caregiving for my mother and my husband, I recognize this as one of the most difficult issues we face. I find your comments very helpful and encouraging.
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7 ReactionsThanks for the likes Errol and John
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2 ReactionsThanks for your comment Verilee1776
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1 ReactionThe article, "Caring for a Loved One When You Need Care Yourself," will be posted on The Caregiver Space website on May 29th. It's already on http://www.harriethodgson.com under the blog tab.
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1 Reaction@harriethodgson1
Thank you for providing the link to the article. This should be a must-read for every caregiver!
Teresa
Thank you Teresa and a heartfelt thank you for serving as a mentor.
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1 ReactionWelcome to Connect, @verilee1776. We look forward to getting to know more about you and your caregiving situation. You mention that you are caring for both your mother and your husband. Can you tell us a bit more? How do you encourage yourself to remember self-care?
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