Yes! I Have a Voice

Today I am joined by Denise Brown, a writer in Chicago and from her own story of supporting family caregivers is now developing training (The Certified Caregiving Consultant) for professional carers to support unpaid caregivers called. The Certified Caregiving Consultant training turns former family caregivers into life coaches and care consultants who serve, support and help family caregivers. Denise also works with corporations and companies interested in providing educational and supportive programs to help their caregiving employees.You can follow Denise on LinkedinYou can buy Denise's Books:- The Caregiving Years, Your Guide to Navigating the Six Caregiving Stages- Take Comfort, a four-book series- Healing Words, Soothing Strategies for Your Caregiving Fatigues- After Caregiving Ends, A Guide to Beginning Again- The Daily Healing Plan, Support for Healing After Caregiving EndsThank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me @yes_ihaveavoice. The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

Today I am joined by Richard Bates. Richard is a publisher and was thrown into his own caregiving story as his father became increasingly taken by dementia. He documented his own experiences during that time and discovered that so many others had interesting and uplifting stories to tell that were not all about emptying commodes, as the cover might suggest. He has put together a collection of essays by many well-known people who describe their own reality and feelings that are enlightening, even entertaining. The purpose of the book, he says, is to raise awareness of what it's really like to be an unpaid caregiver. Unpaid caregivers from all backgrounds feel invisible and he hope his book with raise visibility and awareness at the highest levels of government and within society as a whole. The book is available on Amazon in the UK:https://amazon.co.uk/dp/191636134XAnd Amazon USA:https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/191636134X/To find more information, please head to https://www.who-cares.co.uk/Thank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me @yes_ihaveavoice. The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

In today's episode I am joined by Mike Michel, the founder of the CareTrainr App; If you care for an aging loved one, the CareTrainr app makes it easy to maintain a care routine and quickly onboard new help. Given the high turnover in the homecare industry. Mike's goal is to resolve the shortage of healthcare workers, Reduce hospital readmission, eliminate caregiver burnout, and provide the best care experience possible.You can follow Mike on social media:Instagram: @thecaregiverguyFacebook: @thecaregiverguyEmail: mike@caretrainr.comThank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me @yes_ihaveavoice & @thecaregiverguy The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

Today I am joined by Lynne Stukart. Lynne Stukart is an Award-winning Musician, Sound Healing Practitioner, Educator and Coach who blends a professional music career with transformational sound healing, breathwork and sound meditation. Lynne is deeply dedicated to sharing the many health benefits and healing capabilities of sound. She helps people overcome stress and overwhelm so they can return to clarity and wellness in mind + body + spirit. Lynne provides sound healing therapy services (aka Sound Baths) with individual and group sessions, including workshops, retreats, and corporate events, in-person and virtually around the globe. Please feel free to follow Lynne on social media: Website: https://www.lynnestukart.com/Instagram: @lynnestukartFacebook: @lynne.stukartoutzenAs a gift to podcast listeners, she is offering a complimentary mini sound bath here: https://lynne-stukart.ck.page/f3776281e3Thank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me @yes_ihaveavoice & @lynnestukart The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

Today I am joined by Nikki Nurse. Nikki was 28 when she became the full time caregiver to her mum, who at 58 was diagnosed with dementia. Nikki's experience as a creative in the fashion industry helped her think outside the box when it came to helping her mum still feel independent and engaged in life.Instagram: @alogcabininbrooklynFacebook: @ALogCabinInBkTwitter: @alogcabininbkThank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me @yes_ihaveavoice & @alogcabininbrooklyn The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

Today I am joined by Carroll Golden. When Carroll saw and lived through the discord between her husband's family over money and the care needed for their mother, she knew from her background as a financial planner that she had to do something about it.Read her book "How Not To Tear Your Family Apart"LinkedIn: @carrollgoldenWebsite: https://www.thecaringconversation.com/Thank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me @yes_ihaveavoice. The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

Today I am joined by Eunice Ray from Louisville, Kentucky. She is a publisher, writer and the owner of a network marketing business with a health & wellness brand called Arbonne.Eunice shares her caregiving story about her husband, in July 2020, after a 10 year struggle with neurological decline, succumbed to his combat related injuries sustained during the Vietnam War. You can follow Eunice:FacebookLinkedinThank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me @yes_ihaveavoice. The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

Today I am joined by Tara McDonald from Melbourne, Australia. Tara shares her story about her Dad, Jim who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease 6 years ago and gives her advise. She represents and support people just like her, who care for their parents and children simultaneously while trying to have their own life somewhere in between. You can follow Tara:TiktokThank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me @yes_ihaveavoice. The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

Today I am joined by Antriece Hart. She's an award-winning sales leader, who coaches on global leadership and is a motivational speaker. Antriece looks after her mum who has been living with Alzheimers for the past 10 years, since her diagnosis at the age of 65. She has so much love for her mum and has discovered the art of redirection when her mum gets confused.You can follow Antriece:LinkedInThank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me @yes_ihaveavoice. The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

Today I am joined by Nathalie de Vazeille. She is committed to helping in the Care of Seniors and works for StackCare in VP Marketing and Business Development.StackCare is a very interesting system to help monitor the movements of people who need care but are still somewhat independent and help the family care givers keep in touch with what's going on, from falls to food intake. Let's allow Nathalie to explain.You can follow Nathalie: LinkedInYou can follow Stack Care:Instagram: @stackcare Facebook: @StackCareHomehttps://stack.care/Thank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me @yes_ihaveavoice and @stackcare on Instagram. The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

Today I am joined by Whitney Stohr. Whitney and her husband are parents to four-year-old Malachi who was born with Spina Bifida. Since his birth, he as been in and out of hospital with secondary issues, including water on the brain, a congenital heart defect and breathing difficulties. Yet Whitney remains upbeat about all that has happened in her life since Malachi was born. Her story is one of resilience, ready and able to adapt quickly to ever evolving situations and remaining positive in her outlook.Instagram: @whitneystohrTwitter: @StohrWhitneyThank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag Whitney @whitneystohr and me @yes_ihaveavoice on Instagram. The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

Today I am joined by Roz Clark a transformational strategies coach who has helped to transformed the lives and careers of television personalities, business owners, non-profit leaders, and international performing artists as well as Special Needs Mums.Roz is Mum and caregiver to David Emanuel who was diagnosed with autism after having his first seizure when he was only 8 years old.Website: www.rozclark.com Instagram: @rozdivanationThank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag Roz @rozdivanation and me @yes_ihaveavoice on Instagram. The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

In today's podcast I am joined by Amy Jordan, a multi- award winning author, speaker, coach and choreographer.  Her work is focused on Transforming Trauma to Triumph.  The  mission of her movement is  motivating and inspiring others to overcome ANY adversity.  She tells everyone she meets, 'Please Dance Because You Can.'As a coach Amy supports clients to live the happiest life while managing trauma or a chronic condition.  She infuses her personal experience living with type 1 diabetes over 48 years.  Amy was run over by a bus in 2009. Her right leg crushed and told she may never walk again she defied doctors and expectations alike not only walking but dancing again with her professional company: The Victory Dance Project.  She is also committed to wellness training for women over 50 with health challenges. Amy Jordan lives her mantra: ‘Dance Because You Can.'She is also the subject of the internationally acclaimed, multi award-winning full length documentary feature film ‘Amy's Victory Dance.'  The film is directed by Brian Thomas. Mr. Thomas is a double Emmy nominee and award- winning director whose entertainment work includes icons such as Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Beyonce and Liza Minelli.Here, Amy shares her story about being a caregiver for her father.Buy her book "Dance Because You Can: 5 Steps to Transform Trauma into Triumph"Get a free download from Amy's award-winning book & Join our community here:https://www.amyjordanspeaks.comInstagram: @amyjordanspeaksLinkedIn: @amyjordanspeaksFacebook: Amy JordanThank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag Amy @amyjordanspeaks and me @yes_ihaveavoice on Instagram. The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

Today I am joined by wife, caregiver, author, event planner and motivational speaker, Ashley Jackson-Thompson. She is a caregiver for her Husband, he had a rare type of cancer with a 35% survival rate. In March of 2020, he was pronounced cancer free! Whilst Ashley was helping her husband go through his treatments, she was also planning their wedding.Ashley is a caregiver advocate who helps other caregivers realise their power and that they should treat themselves and love themselves. She is also a best selling author of her book Lost Travel Found: Turning Pain Into Purpose.You can join her facebook group: Caregiverstreatyoself.You can find Ashley here:Website: https://timelessdreamevents.com/Facebook Instagram: @timelessdreameventsThank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag Ashley @timelessdreamevents and me @yes_ihaveavoice on Instagram. The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

Today I am joined by Rebbitzin Bat-Chen Grossman from Israel. Bat-Chen is married to a Rabbi and has 7 children. She's a God-centred marriage coach for women. We speak about the impact of becoming a caregiver to a family member can have on a marriage and she offers advice on how to deal with that. Bat-Chen has a free online retreat coming up: connectedforreal.com/retreat. She also has a podcast, called Connected For Real.You can find out more by going to her website: connectedforreal.comYou can also follow Bat-Chen on her social media:Instagram: @connectedforrealFacebook: @connectedforrealLinkedinThank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag Rebbitzin @connectedforreal and me @yes_ihaveavoice on Instagram. The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

Today I am joined by Choreographer, Alyx Steele. Alyx shares her story and advise about being a caregiver from a young age to her mum who is blind and has paranoid schizophrenia.  She expresses the importance of reaching out for support and that you're not alone. You can also follow Alyx on social media:Instagram: @alyxsteeleThank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me and Alyx on Instagram  @alyxsteeleThe time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

In today's episode I am joined by Jessica Lizel Cannon from, Austin, Texas.  Jessica stepped into the role as a part-time caregiver for her mother in 2009 who has bipolar Manic-Depressive disorder and mixed Dementia. Jessica then transitioned into full-time caregiver by 2016, this provided Jessica with a whole new perspective on selfcare, self-compassion, and self-control.Jessica is know as The Proactive Caregiver and she is here to share lessons learned through highs and lows along her caregiving journey.You can buy Jessica's books here.You can also follow Jessica on social media:Instagram: @proactive_caregiverWebsite: https://www.jessicalizelcannon.com/FacebookThank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me and Jessica on Instagram  @proactive_caregiverThe time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

Today I am joined by Sally Tabbner. Sally is the CEO of a UK Charity called Dementia Support. They provide information, advise and care to Dementia suffers and their families.Sally has personal family experience of dementia and recognises how important overall dementia support is for both the person living with dementia as well as their family and carers.You can also follow Dementia Support on social media:Instagram: @dementia_supportWebsite: https://www.dementiasupport.org.uk/Twitter: @hub4dementiaFacebook: @dementiahubContact number: 01243 888691Thank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me and Dementia Support on Instagram @dementia_supportThe time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

Today I am joined by Linda Plant. Linda is a pioneer female business leader and is the no nonsense interviewer over 5 seasons of BBC's The Apprentice's final five candidates, Linda scrutinises in detail and advises Lord Alan Sugar on candidate's Business Plans, their credibility and flaws. In addition to that and so much more she is also a caregiver to her mother who has dementia. You can find out more by going to her website: lindaplant.com You can also follow Linda on her social media: Instagram: @lindaplant_official Twitter: @lindabplant Facebook: @LindaPlantAcademyLinkedin Thank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me and Linda on Instagram @lindaplant_official

Today I am joined by Mary Daniels. When Mary's  Husband was diagnosed with Alzheimers at the age of 58 she could no longer go visit him in his facility when Covid struck. Mary realised that the people who worked there could visit those who lived there, so she ended up taking a job in the kitchens just so she could visit him. From that experience, she has been working to change the policy in her state of Florida and is helping others to do the same across the US. You can find out more by going to her Facebook group, Caregivers For Compromise.You can follow Mary on Instagram:  @Marysdaniel Thank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me and Mary on Instagram @Marysdaniel 

Today I am joined by Meriam Boldewijn from the Netherlands. Meriam is a caregiver for her husband and brother. When Meriam started struggling with unwanted feelings, she searched for a practical and simple system that  could be implemented in her daily life to revitalise her own energy, be able to breathe, stop feeling guilty when doing self-care.Meriam has now been a caregiver for more than 20 years, is a coach, an author and is the founder of the 6-week Live online program: Caregiver 2.0. You can follow Meriam on Instagram:  @meriamboldewijn & Facebook.Website: https://www.meriamboldewijn.com/Thank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me and Meriam on Instagram @meriamboldewijnThe time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

In today's episode I am joined by Isabelle Stephenson, a certified life coach and a mother of six teen and young adult children. Isabelle lives in Florida but grew up in Germany. She was a caregiver to her father who was situated in Germany at the time whilst she was in America.You can find Isabelle on Facebook and her Website. Download Isabelle's free guide which will help you process ALL your emotions. Thank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me on Instagram @ruthlewiscosteuk.The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

In today's episode I am joined by Jennifer Hillary from Wisconsin, USA. Jennifer has been a caregiver for her mother who has Scoliosis. You can follow Jennifer on Instagram:  @enhancingourharvestThank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me and Jennifer on Instagram @ruthlewiscosteuk, @enhancingourharvest.The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

Today I am joined by Madeleine Wober AKA Maddie Sparkles. Maddie is an intuitive healer, transformational empowerment coach, inspirational poet and a professional angel and oracle card reader. She combines all of these things to help people connect with their angels, release their fears and step into their power so they can live a truly magical life by feeling divinely guided. You can follow Maddie on Instagram:  @maddie_sparkles_8, Join her Facebook group: Maddie Sparkles: Uplift * Inspire *Create *Manifest Website: www.maddiesparkles8.com Coaching Website:  www.mybrilliantself.comThank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me and Maddie on Instagram @ruthlewiscosteuk, @maddie_sparkles_8.The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

In today's episode I am joined by Anna Cantor. When Anna's mother was diagnosed with dementia and early-onset Alzheimer's, she did not know how much it would change her life. At just 26 years old Anna became her full-time caregiver. Anna is now a Certified Dementia Consultant and Life Coach, she guides individuals and families to pursue a better understanding of their role. You can follow Anna on Instagram:  @yourdementiacoach and her Website: www.yourdementiacoach.comThank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me and Anna on Instagram @ruthlewiscosteuk, @yourdementiacoach.The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

In this episode I am joined by Karla Hult an NBC affiliate in Minneapolis and a fierce fighter against Alzheimers. In 2010 her Father was diagnosed with Alzheimer's, Karla describes her Dad as her foundation her rock and her role model. Karla is the founder of So Many Goodbyes and offers mentorships to families currently on the course of this cruel disease. She also offers workshops for long-term care centres to help bridge the communication divide between families and caregivers.You can follow Karla on Instagram: @karlahult, Facebook: @So Many Goodbyes and her Website: somanygoodbyes.com Thank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me and Kyle on Instagram @ruthlewiscosteuk, @karlahultThe time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

In today's episode I am joined by Kyle Ruffin. Kyle's life took an unexpected turn when her mother suffered the first of three strokes,  she became full time caregiver for her mother, who's condition dramatically changed both of their lives.You can follow Kyle on Instagram:  @mycaregiverstory, Facebook: @mycaregiverstory and her Website: mycaregiverstory.com.Kyle's book “In Stroke's Shadow: My Caregiver Story” is expected to be published fall 2021.Thank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me and Kyle on Instagram @ruthlewiscosteuk, @mycaregiverstory.The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

Today I am joined by ‘The Perfectly Imperfect Coach' Marnie LaFrance from Ottawa, Canada. She talks all about her experience being a caregiver for her mum who has early stage Dementia which was triggered from strokes.Marnie's ultimate goal is to help women live a life of love, confidence and authenticity. She is also the founder of The WELL Collective which is a place that  focus' on the prioritisation of oneself. You can listen to Marnie's podcast Embracing Imperfection on all major platforms. You can follow Marnie on Instagram:  @theperfectlyimperfectcoach, Facebook: @theperfectlyimperfectcoach and her Website: theperfectlyimperfectcoach.caThank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me and Marnie on Instagram @ruthlewiscosteuk @theperfectlyimperfectcoachThe time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

In this episode I am joined by 34 year old Kris McCabe from Chicago, she has been a caregiver for her grandmother who  has Alzheimer's for 4 years."The love that me and her share and the love that I provide and the care that I provide for her has given me a purpose that I cant even explain its given me everything. It's been a really enjoyable positive experience for me."You can follow Kris on Instagram @lifewithgrams.Thank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me and Kris on Instagram @ruthlewiscosteuk @lifewithgrams. The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

In this episode I am joined by Charisma Freeman who has 15 years of Medical Experience and specialises in disability and elder care in her medical practice. Charisma is a mother of two and her youngest son has a rare genetic disorder, KIF1A. She is now a Caregiver Coach and teaches caregivers to navigate the medical system, find happiness and live a less stressful life. Her goal is to let caregivers know someone actually cares. "You deserve to be taken care of just as much as anyone else".You can follow Charisma on Instagram: @charismascare, Facebook: @CharismasCare and her Website: https://charismascare.com/Thank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me and Charisma on Instagram @ruthlewiscosteuk @charismascareThe time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

Today I am joined by Jennifer Randazzo, we discuss her experience of watching her own father struggle with Lewy Body Dementia for more than 10 years and watching her children witness their Grandpa's decline. Jennifer has written a book called Grandpa and Lewywhich is about hope and empowerment for children touched by Lewy Body Dementia. It addresses some of the symptoms that patients face and how a child might help a loved one dealing with the disease. Her aim is to encourage children to handle adversity with patience, kindness, and compassion.You can follow Jennifer on Instagram: @grandpaandlewy, Facebook: @thejollyauthor  and her Website: https://thejollyauthor.com/You can also find the book Grandpa and Lewy  on Amazon.Thank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me and Jennifer on Instagram @ruthlewiscosteuk @grandpaandlewyThe time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

In today's episode I am joined with Diana Jean-Jacques, a registered nurse from Philadelphia. After losing her mother to  cancer she wanted to be the bridge for health care providers and caregivers by helping them know what to prepare for and know what to do next. She is the founder of Life Uninterrupted. Their mission is to help women caring for their elderly parents navigate the frustrations of the healthcare system by providing resources, education, and support. By providing culturally and generationally appropriate resources, we help you go from burnout to boss.You can follow Diana on Instagram @rnbossd & Facebook @rnbossd.Thank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me and Diana on Instagram @ruthlewiscosteuk @rnbossd.The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

In today's episode I am joined by 25 year old Nicole Shaw Wilson from Florida who is the caregiver for her grandmother. Nicole shares her tips and discusses what she does in her down time. You can follow Nicole on Instagram @nicoleswilsonn.Thank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me and Nicole on Instagram @ruthlewiscosteuk @nicoleswilsonn.The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

In this episode I am joined by Rani Sinanan who quit her job as a teacher to become a full-time caregiver for her mum who was re-diagnosed with stage 4 gallbladder cancer.Rani shares her tips on coping, the importance of breathing and how we often forget to pause and think for a moment. She combines her world of caregiving and world of makeup to raise awareness about different health concerns, bringing them to the forefront. You can follow Rani on Instagram: @_simplyrani.Thank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me and Rani on Instagram @ruthlewiscosteuk @_simplyrani.The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

In today's episode I am joined by a good friend of mine, Rachael Steele. When her husband suddenly was diagnosed with terminal stage 4 cancer, Rachael became his full-time caregiver. She is now a full-time caregiver for her mother who suffers with heart failure.We discuss the importance of a morning routine and being kind to oneself, connecting with friends and having fun chats to try and uplift ours spirits. Making time for yourself even if it's just 30 minutes a day to meditate, go for a walk or read a book is imperative. You can connect with Rachael on Instagram @rachael61  Thank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me and Rachael on Instagram @ruthlewiscosteuk @rachael61.The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

Jodi Martino is a health and wellness coach and a Mum of 2 from the USA. When her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer's Jodi became her caregiver. She uses her expertise in that field to help other caregivers. We talk about the importance of having a community and support system. Jodi Runs a Facebook group called Caregiver Connections which is a resource for family caregivers and healthcare professionals to connect and share information and inspiration. “You need to take care of yourself first and foremost before you can help them because if you're not at your best, then you're not going to be able to care for them the way that they need”You can connect with Jodi on Instagram @jodismartino & Facebook Thank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me and Jodi on Instagram @ruthlewiscosteuk @jodismartino.The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

Today I am joined by Laura Orrantia from San Diego, CA who quit her job as a hospice nurse to become a caregiver for her mother who was diagnosed with Parkinson's then later diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia. We talk about finding the right balance as caregivers, learning to forgive yourself and tips on self-care.  Here is Laura's advice if you find yourself suddenly thrust into the role of a caregiver:1. Take a deep breath (do this anytime, anywhere, and as often as needed).2. Educate yourself. Learn about your loved one's disease and learn how to have a ‘relationship' with it.3. Create a support system. Learn to lean on family and friends. Find a community. Join a support group or talk to a therapist. Hire help or see if you qualify for assistance.4. PRACTICE SELF-CARE!! 5. Have a mantra that you can repeat when times get tough.You can follow Laura on Instagram @dear_dementia Thank you for listening. If you found value from this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me and Laura on Instagram @ruthlewiscosteuk @dear_dementia.The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

Today I'm joined by Sara Gaver from Jacksonville Florida, USA. Sara was born with a physical disability called Arthrogryposis, only 1 in 3000 are born with it. Sara has been driving a wheelchair since the age of 4 and she is now 27. As Sara needs caregivers, she tells us what it's like from her perspective.  “Never look at the person for what they can't do and look at them for what they can do.”You can follow Sara on Instagram @wheellifeconnectionsThank you for listening. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me and Sara on Instagram @ruthlewiscosteuk @wheellifeconnections.The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

In today's episode I am joined by my good friend Kathryn Charlesworth. When discovering her mum had fibrosis of the lungs, she moved back to her hometown in Cornwall from London to become her caregiver. We talk about the importance of filling your own cup up and ensuring as a caregiver your own physical and mental wellbeing is looked after. As caregivers it can sometimes feel doom and gloom but creating special moments together is what can bring joy. Keeping a positive mindset and not feeling alone is the key.You can follow Kathryn on Instagram @kathryncharlesworthukThank you for listening. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me and Kathryn on Instagram @ruthlewiscosteuk @kathryncharlesworthuk.The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

In today's episode I am joined by Pat Lockhart from Lakeland Florida, she shares her experience about what it was like being a caregiver to her husband of 30 years.You can follow Pat on Instagram @patsbiz. Thank you for listening. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me and Pat on Instagram @ruthlewiscosteuk @patsbiz.The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

In today's episode I am joined by Jacquelyn Revere from Los Angeles, a Screen Writer/Producer. She tells her story of what it's like to care for Mother who has Alzheimer's.You can follow Jacqueline on Instagram @momofmymom.Thank you for listening. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me and Jacquelyn on Instagram @ruthlewiscosteuk @momofmymom.The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!

Welcome, I'm Ruth Lewis-Coste and this is my brand new podcast 'YES! I Have a Voice'. In today's solo episode I share with you my story and why I decided to start this podcast.Thank you for listening. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to leave a 5* review, take a screenshot and tag me on Instagram @ruthlewiscosteuk.The time is now to be proud and loud about being a caregiver!