Thanks for the mention here Victoria 😊 Sorry, I'm a bit slow to respond, I've been away getting married and am just returning to daily life (and Substack) now. Really appreciate your support here too. Keep doing what you do 🙏❤️
Thanks, Victoria, for the mention. I’m awed by what you’re doing here and the connections you’re building to help us all navigate better and with kindness, empathy and understanding for this, oft times, extremely challenging gig. Thank you for all you do.
Thank you, Susan You're very welcome and I appreciate you - and your daily photo that perks up my day ;-)
Don't forget that I may be a catalyst but it's all of us supporting each other. The dynamics of exchanging comments, and sharing our experiences can weave a powerful support-net for all of us.
It's not all for everyone else, I need these connections too ;-) Plus it's fun for me to let my brain cells dance a little.
Victoria! First, thank you for mentioning me. But most importantly, I am so happy to know that you are pleased with the feedback and results you are getting from this community. I don't want you to ever stop sharing information and supporting us all. I hope you keep on doing it forever! 🥰🥰 Some of your articles I read as soon as possible, and some I set aside for a time when I may need the information more than I do now, but every single one is priceless. You should know that one of my biggest worries in life is the possibility of having to take on full-time care of a parent or my husband at some point in the future (beyond what I currently do to help them), not because I'm not willing to, but because I want to be the best carer I can. Knowing that you are there with resources and for mental and emotional support allows me to sleep at night. Your mom is so fortunate to have you, and knowing that she is your number one priority - I am amazed at the time and energy you still devote to Carer Mentor. My heartfelt thank you! It is a true blessing to be part of your community!
I'm a little bleary eyed as several tears in gratitude for your paid subscription are blurring the text ;-)
I hear you. I understand and it's a longer discussion than texting. So I'll say, DM me with any questions, and —because I've been pondering on this— I may start doing live talks (which I'd need to plan ahead for) but I'd start with paid subscribers...perhaps in discussing we can noodle how best it can help people simultaneously to having our own chat ;-)
Let's noodle on this and DM. I'd love to connect live..it won't be for a few weeks but something to think about.
Thank you for recognising my time and energy expenditure...I'm right now recalibrating - hence the mid-year review. Also because my passion is equal between writing AND building community...The background to this is that - having known the darkest hypervigilance days when I couldn't do/make any plans, when it was 100% caring, I now optimise every moment...AND we're in a calmer period (no idea for how long though)...you should see what I got done in 2022!! Whole other story. THANK YOU Cherie!!
Love the idea of live talks, as your time and priorities allow! We’re headed to meet our Munchkin in a couple of weeks, so my presence on Substack will be limited until probably mid-July, so I’ll reconnect then and see where you’re at. As always, I’d love to hear more about your darkest days when you’re ready to share, too. Thank you, Victoria!!
Awwwwww wishing you lots of moments filled with grandparent joy! Photos photos pls! That sounds perfect. Yes...2015 to 2017 days will come first and then 2017 to 2019 I think....then those 2019...I think that's how the memoir parts will go ...still contemplating. Thank you Cherie, mid-July feels like a great fit! xo
Very welcome, Johanna! When I think of all the articles, books and references I've read to get my head around how I was feeling and navigating everything ....I'm relieved to have found community with yourself and others who can offer support and comments to other caregivers. Plus Music Memories is still one of my fave articles - so Dusty's music still lingers ;-)
Thanks, Lani. Sometimes Bananas have to find our own bunch, or make banana bread while everyone else is making apple tarts;-)
There will be a piece/essays on identity at some point in the future. I hope you'll share your thoughts/input for that and on any of the articles. We need diverse voices and thinking to open up the caregiving discussion. thanks for being here and your lovely comment.xo
Appreciate you, Victoria! I may not be as present as I would like here on Substack as I focus on supporting my mother on her journey post grief and loss. Thank you for all your do for the carer community!!
Hi Bonnie, I know how it is—it's not a question of how often; it's knowing you're connected that matters. I hear you. We're here. take care of yourself xo
Thank you for your mention, Victoria. I'm so heartened to read about the community connection you have forged through your presence on Substack. I love the synergy created, the ideas exchanged, and most important of all, the hearts touched.
Thank you so much for the mention Victoria 🌸 You blow me away with your kindness, support and well researched articles. I don't get to read as many as I would links but they are all booked marked for quick reference.
Thank you to everyone here in the network. I am new here but you all are amazing. As a caregiver to my autistic, disabled adult son who has many medical challenges - I hear you 💖
Thank you, Janet. You're doing exactly what I hope for - you know info & resources are here when you need it. I'll be reassembling the articles to improve access to different topics.
As you can appreciate, given our earlier chats - I've been making the most of the time I have right now. When unpredictability is a constant, I'm building content to potentially update later...My kind of content calendar strategy needs to embrace agility, and accessibility ;-) Short response - you'll never miss anything because it'll be accessible when you need it, in various forms.
I hope you're managing and that today is a good day for your son. xo
My interactions with you have been such a blessing, Victoria! I find your articles and resources to be very helpful. But what impacted me most of all was that you truly empathized and understood some of the challenges I face as a person with multiple sclerosis (and sometimes hiring caregivers to fill some gaps I experience due to limitations) trying to provide care at times for aging relatives or extended family. Just knowing that someone cares and sees you is so vital. So what you're doing here is tremendous. Thank you. I have a MS in Rehab Counseling and have walked alongside many families. I wrote a book/workbook with tools for people to work through the tasks of grieving. Chronic conditions and disabilities create many challenges, changes and adjustments. Change equals loss. So some of my articles address these issues, too. I share your passion for helping others find the encouragement and support they need to care for others well, but also to care for themselves in the process. Here's a short video I did a few weeks ago that might be of encouragement:
Thank you, for your kind words and support, Susan. I hear you. Your faith and spirituality is strong. I'm sorry your right-eye vision is impaired and I hope it can be resolved. Awe and wonder can reframe our thoughts into a wider, broader context that can reconnect us to the world, just like a view of the mountain. Like you said, if we can find gratitude in our everyday, intentionally seek it out we can recalibrate our expectations of contentment and also, our fear of the unknown. Thank you for your work actively supporting those with chronic conditions and disabilities, your warmth and love must be a balm for those you connect with, as it does here. Thank you for taking the time to write a comment (I hope it wasn't too stressful with your eyesight impaired) warm wishes and hugs.
I've gotten used to writing with one eye not functioning as well. I learned later I had a torn retina, which they did laser surgery for as soon as they found it. That will prevent retina detachment. This blood from the original tear is messing up my vision but hopefully that will clear on its own. I loved how you put that: awe and wonder on reframe our thoughts into a wider, broader context... Nowadays I work with people who are facing life transitions, relationship struggles, anxiety or depression, or various other things. I find it so life-giving to help others. It redeems the things I go through and makes me more effective. People know when you truly understand, don't they? I appreciate you, Victoria! Many blessings on your continued work here. You make a difference in our lives and the networking and sharing of resources strengthens many a weary person I'm sure.
Yep,I was thinking of an article(s) with a specific focus on LGBTQ+ caregiving - TBH I don't have time to write something myself right now, but I'd like to hear ideas and thoughts and experiences...just an open call...and not 'just' because it's PRIDE! I've a friend on a carer forum who may write something but he's lots on..So no deadline, just a general thought for you and QStack ;-) (bit vague, sorry!)
Done! I was wondering if you and the team would consider doing articles on allyship - curious, enquiring minds, who are empathetic are asking ;-) Or maybe a discussion thread this month?!? Having friends and supporting them is one thing, broader allyship is another...so I'm always in listening mode during PRIDE.
Pls feel free to ignore the suggestion you've already tons on your plate curating the stack!
Victoria, you are doing amazing work here. You bring so many resources to foster community, create connections, and support the people who are struggling with the challenges of caring. Thank you for this. I appreciate the mention. Hugs to you as you care for your Mum and yourself.
WOOHOO .... I wish someone would get that teleportation sorted for us! If you ever fly over to the UK we will have to translate all this into real drinks! xo
Thanks for the mention here Victoria 😊 Sorry, I'm a bit slow to respond, I've been away getting married and am just returning to daily life (and Substack) now. Really appreciate your support here too. Keep doing what you do 🙏❤️
THAT is the best reason ever !! thank you for your kind words & no worries I'm sending MANY congratulations and warm wishes to you both!!
Aw thanks Victoria 😊
Thanks, Victoria, for the mention. I’m awed by what you’re doing here and the connections you’re building to help us all navigate better and with kindness, empathy and understanding for this, oft times, extremely challenging gig. Thank you for all you do.
Thank you, Susan You're very welcome and I appreciate you - and your daily photo that perks up my day ;-)
Don't forget that I may be a catalyst but it's all of us supporting each other. The dynamics of exchanging comments, and sharing our experiences can weave a powerful support-net for all of us.
It's not all for everyone else, I need these connections too ;-) Plus it's fun for me to let my brain cells dance a little.
Victoria! First, thank you for mentioning me. But most importantly, I am so happy to know that you are pleased with the feedback and results you are getting from this community. I don't want you to ever stop sharing information and supporting us all. I hope you keep on doing it forever! 🥰🥰 Some of your articles I read as soon as possible, and some I set aside for a time when I may need the information more than I do now, but every single one is priceless. You should know that one of my biggest worries in life is the possibility of having to take on full-time care of a parent or my husband at some point in the future (beyond what I currently do to help them), not because I'm not willing to, but because I want to be the best carer I can. Knowing that you are there with resources and for mental and emotional support allows me to sleep at night. Your mom is so fortunate to have you, and knowing that she is your number one priority - I am amazed at the time and energy you still devote to Carer Mentor. My heartfelt thank you! It is a true blessing to be part of your community!
I'm a little bleary eyed as several tears in gratitude for your paid subscription are blurring the text ;-)
I hear you. I understand and it's a longer discussion than texting. So I'll say, DM me with any questions, and —because I've been pondering on this— I may start doing live talks (which I'd need to plan ahead for) but I'd start with paid subscribers...perhaps in discussing we can noodle how best it can help people simultaneously to having our own chat ;-)
Let's noodle on this and DM. I'd love to connect live..it won't be for a few weeks but something to think about.
Thank you for recognising my time and energy expenditure...I'm right now recalibrating - hence the mid-year review. Also because my passion is equal between writing AND building community...The background to this is that - having known the darkest hypervigilance days when I couldn't do/make any plans, when it was 100% caring, I now optimise every moment...AND we're in a calmer period (no idea for how long though)...you should see what I got done in 2022!! Whole other story. THANK YOU Cherie!!
Love the idea of live talks, as your time and priorities allow! We’re headed to meet our Munchkin in a couple of weeks, so my presence on Substack will be limited until probably mid-July, so I’ll reconnect then and see where you’re at. As always, I’d love to hear more about your darkest days when you’re ready to share, too. Thank you, Victoria!!
Awwwwww wishing you lots of moments filled with grandparent joy! Photos photos pls! That sounds perfect. Yes...2015 to 2017 days will come first and then 2017 to 2019 I think....then those 2019...I think that's how the memoir parts will go ...still contemplating. Thank you Cherie, mid-July feels like a great fit! xo
Love this and so glad to be on this platform with you Victoria, keep it up!
Thanks, Zan! Ditto! I appreciate your support.
Glad to be in it with you, I've enjoyed our conversations - thanks for the shout out!
Me too @Kelly Flanagan !! Lots more ‘humaning’ discussions ahead of us! Thanks!
Thank you for the mention Victoria, the community you have built and continue to nurture is inspiring.
Very welcome, Johanna! When I think of all the articles, books and references I've read to get my head around how I was feeling and navigating everything ....I'm relieved to have found community with yourself and others who can offer support and comments to other caregivers. Plus Music Memories is still one of my fave articles - so Dusty's music still lingers ;-)
You've created such an amazing community. Bravo. xo
Thanks, Lani. Sometimes Bananas have to find our own bunch, or make banana bread while everyone else is making apple tarts;-)
There will be a piece/essays on identity at some point in the future. I hope you'll share your thoughts/input for that and on any of the articles. We need diverse voices and thinking to open up the caregiving discussion. thanks for being here and your lovely comment.xo
Appreciate you, Victoria! I may not be as present as I would like here on Substack as I focus on supporting my mother on her journey post grief and loss. Thank you for all your do for the carer community!!
Hi Bonnie, I know how it is—it's not a question of how often; it's knowing you're connected that matters. I hear you. We're here. take care of yourself xo
Thank you for your mention, Victoria. I'm so heartened to read about the community connection you have forged through your presence on Substack. I love the synergy created, the ideas exchanged, and most important of all, the hearts touched.
You're a part of this infinite network, Louisa, so you need to remember to thank yourself too ;-) hearts touched is a lovely thought. xo
inspired by your consistency & dedication to building community :)
Thanks, Cissy!
Thank you so much for the mention Victoria 🌸 You blow me away with your kindness, support and well researched articles. I don't get to read as many as I would links but they are all booked marked for quick reference.
Thank you to everyone here in the network. I am new here but you all are amazing. As a caregiver to my autistic, disabled adult son who has many medical challenges - I hear you 💖
Thank you, Janet. You're doing exactly what I hope for - you know info & resources are here when you need it. I'll be reassembling the articles to improve access to different topics.
As you can appreciate, given our earlier chats - I've been making the most of the time I have right now. When unpredictability is a constant, I'm building content to potentially update later...My kind of content calendar strategy needs to embrace agility, and accessibility ;-) Short response - you'll never miss anything because it'll be accessible when you need it, in various forms.
I hope you're managing and that today is a good day for your son. xo
My interactions with you have been such a blessing, Victoria! I find your articles and resources to be very helpful. But what impacted me most of all was that you truly empathized and understood some of the challenges I face as a person with multiple sclerosis (and sometimes hiring caregivers to fill some gaps I experience due to limitations) trying to provide care at times for aging relatives or extended family. Just knowing that someone cares and sees you is so vital. So what you're doing here is tremendous. Thank you. I have a MS in Rehab Counseling and have walked alongside many families. I wrote a book/workbook with tools for people to work through the tasks of grieving. Chronic conditions and disabilities create many challenges, changes and adjustments. Change equals loss. So some of my articles address these issues, too. I share your passion for helping others find the encouragement and support they need to care for others well, but also to care for themselves in the process. Here's a short video I did a few weeks ago that might be of encouragement:
https://susankuenzi.substack.com/p/when-despair-whispers-in-your-ear
Thank you, for your kind words and support, Susan. I hear you. Your faith and spirituality is strong. I'm sorry your right-eye vision is impaired and I hope it can be resolved. Awe and wonder can reframe our thoughts into a wider, broader context that can reconnect us to the world, just like a view of the mountain. Like you said, if we can find gratitude in our everyday, intentionally seek it out we can recalibrate our expectations of contentment and also, our fear of the unknown. Thank you for your work actively supporting those with chronic conditions and disabilities, your warmth and love must be a balm for those you connect with, as it does here. Thank you for taking the time to write a comment (I hope it wasn't too stressful with your eyesight impaired) warm wishes and hugs.
I've gotten used to writing with one eye not functioning as well. I learned later I had a torn retina, which they did laser surgery for as soon as they found it. That will prevent retina detachment. This blood from the original tear is messing up my vision but hopefully that will clear on its own. I loved how you put that: awe and wonder on reframe our thoughts into a wider, broader context... Nowadays I work with people who are facing life transitions, relationship struggles, anxiety or depression, or various other things. I find it so life-giving to help others. It redeems the things I go through and makes me more effective. People know when you truly understand, don't they? I appreciate you, Victoria! Many blessings on your continued work here. You make a difference in our lives and the networking and sharing of resources strengthens many a weary person I'm sure.
Awww Bless you Susan! Your kind words sustain me, your feedback matters. Thank you. a BIG warm hug
Hugs to you as well, Victoria. I am grateful for the connection.
Wonderful and heart-centered resource you've got here, Victoria! Thanks for the shout-out! ❤️❤️❤️
Thanks, Troy! I want to raise awareness of the additional challenges of caregiving that the LBGTQ+ community face - if you've ideas, let me know.
Is it a mainly LGBTQ focus?
Yep,I was thinking of an article(s) with a specific focus on LGBTQ+ caregiving - TBH I don't have time to write something myself right now, but I'd like to hear ideas and thoughts and experiences...just an open call...and not 'just' because it's PRIDE! I've a friend on a carer forum who may write something but he's lots on..So no deadline, just a general thought for you and QStack ;-) (bit vague, sorry!)
Pop it on the Collaboration thread maybe?
Ohhhh yes - Durrr me! Off to do that now. Thanks Troy!
Done! I was wondering if you and the team would consider doing articles on allyship - curious, enquiring minds, who are empathetic are asking ;-) Or maybe a discussion thread this month?!? Having friends and supporting them is one thing, broader allyship is another...so I'm always in listening mode during PRIDE.
Pls feel free to ignore the suggestion you've already tons on your plate curating the stack!
Victoria, you are doing amazing work here. You bring so many resources to foster community, create connections, and support the people who are struggling with the challenges of caring. Thank you for this. I appreciate the mention. Hugs to you as you care for your Mum and yourself.
Always LOVE your special hugs, Mary...especially when I know they come with one of your virtual cocktails! ;-)
I just made some very strong cold brew coffee. Perfect for espresso martinis. 🍸
WOOHOO .... I wish someone would get that teleportation sorted for us! If you ever fly over to the UK we will have to translate all this into real drinks! xo
Welcome @Kristin , MSN, RN, CCRN we can all do with more kindness and connection;-)