In our participant’s words…

As a primary carer for my spouse living with brain cancer, I had been failing to ensure that I was looking after me too. I enrolled in the caregiver program with the expectation to receive a few strategies I could put in place to allow me the energy and drive to push through the demanding carer responsibilities, keep the immediate family functioning while also maintaining my own wellbeing.

What I encountered from the sessions with Nadine was beyond what I ever expected. Not only did I receive the strategies I was seeking, I also received affirmation and acknowledgement that all the thoughts running through my head were normal for a carer. The caregiver program with one on one sessions with Nadine has helped me to address some difficult conversations with loved ones. It has provided an ability for me to structure my days to allow me to continue to invest my energy into my professional life as required while still ensuring home life ticks along.

Some practical examples of the strategies I have implemented are:

• Continuation of professional counselling
• Time Management
• Ability to structure and differentiate between ‘Me time’; ‘family time’ and ‘work time’
• Seeking resources to help with difficult conversations and grief

For those of you navigating the carer role in your life, I would undoubtedly recommend enrolling in the Osara Health Caregiver Program to provide you the necessary strategies and skills to continue in what might be challenging time in your life.