Nicole, Thank you for asking this question. As caregivers, we have a roller coaster of emotions to contend with as we care for our loved ones, and as we experience the death of our loved ones. I recently lost my mother, Monday, July 11th. In less than a week from her death, I have experienced a variety of emotions as I enter the beginning stage of grief including a bit of shock and denial, sadness, and relief. It's an odd combination of emotions, but I am relieved for my mother that she is no longer miserable (her words), and I am relieved to begin to experience a life of my own without the restrictions of a scheduled life. I will write more about my mother's end of life and the corresponding emotions in future blogs. I find writing to be my way of processing my feelings and helps me to feel closer in spirit to my mother. Finally, I feel blessed and thankful for the support of family and so many friends. I know that I am not alone.

Welcome to the forum! My goal with this space is to offer a place for you to share your experience, ask questions, and learn and lean on one another. Caregiving can be isolating, and this is one way to help you through the process to help you to be the best caregiver you can be.

Caregiving needs to be a team endeavor. I rely on caregivers, a hospice team, and my family and friends to help me get through this time. Some days, it feels easy and other days, it feels so hard. I have learned to give myself grace as I know I'm carrying a big load on my shoulders.

Hi Nicole, I appreciate your feedback. There is so much information about hospice isn't understood. I am learning so much as we go through hospice care which I will share as I learn more that may be helpful.

Hi Eryka, I'm pleased that my blog was helpful. Yes, a loved one can graduate from hospice if their health condition improves. It can also be extended or terminated. Let me know if I can help in any other way.

Hi Nicole, Walking is so refreshing. It's just great to take a few minutes, if only to walk around the block. It breaks up the day, it gets the body moving, and your mind has a moment to center. I love this time of year!

I wish I had a good answer for you, Nicole. You are right, often the tables turn when you don't expect it, and suddenly you have to step in and care for your loved one as they go through their health challenge. When the health event first occurs and my immediate attention is needed, I will focus on my mom's needs. Once I feel the situation is stable, I re-group and address my needs. For me, it's making sure I take my vitamins, eat well, walk a bit, meditate, and get a good night's sleep. The more space I create for myself, the faster I can rest and re-energize.

I agree Eryka! I have to write everything down. I used to rely on my memory but as I've added more responsibilities to my plate, I can't afford to rely on my memory any longer. I keep a planner and I use a calendar. As a matter of fact, because I'm headed out of town for a few days, I'm writing a job description for myself. What I mean by that is, I will write down many of the tasks I handle day to day for the person who is staying with my mother. It takes time to build, but once I have it, I can edit as the occasion calls for a change.

Hi Eryka! Welcome! I'm so happy you have decided to join our forum. Please feel free to post your question here, or if you prefer, to share your experience. This is the place to do so.