DEMENTIA CAREGIVER GRIEF SUPPORT
First Presbyterian Church of Tuscaloosa, Alabama
"Tracing Faith: New Perspectives on Caregiver Grief and the Gospel" 

It is so hard to believe we are approaching the end of another year. For me, especially grieving the recent loss of my mother mortality screams so much louder to me now on the heels of a loss so great. I’m hearing from so many about how the holidays are overshadowed by grief from the death of a loved one. As an only child and caregiver to my mother Mercedes for eleven years, I am missing her as my anchor and safety net in this world. Fifty-six years is a long time with someon

In Part One of The Beautiful Exchange I began to take you on a very personal journey of experiencing what I call “The Beautiful Exchange” Through my caregiving journey, I learned the necessity of cultivating an even more deeply intimate, personal space and time with the Lord. What makes it so special, is that the exchange is not driven by getting things but connecting with our Heavenly Father. Now, releasing. After understanding why breathing deeply is so crucial in our conne

One of the best things we can do for ourselves is reflect. There was a time in my life I thought punishment was at the root of disappointment. Most of that belief came through a judgement doctrinal system of God. With strong spiritual guidance, I learned the importance of gaining Christ-Centered perspective. Not every situation was about me; the root of every circumstance wasn't disobedience; more importantly, a trial could be divinely orchestrated for my good. The final poin

I am not sure if you had a chance to read my articles on “The Beautiful Exchange yet, but I’m sharing them here in my article/blog space because I believe it could really begin to impact your quality of life. I learned something about prayer as a caregiver I had not experienced before – prayer can become your secret sleeping pill. Over years caring for my mom, I began to see how much of my emotional burdens would follow me when it was time to rest and sleep. For some it may s

For months as my mom was transitioning, and after her death I completely neglected my little backyard farm; I couldn’t do anything - no water, no TLC of any kind. About a week ago I took a baby step to start rejuvenating her again. I didn’t do much - pull a few weeds, clear some fallen brush, cut a few sprigs of mint. That felt like a lot right now. As I walked about feeling overwhelmed with all that needed to be done I decided to go look at the carrot tops. They were out of

Eight years ago, I sold everything I had, put a bookmark on my dreams and returned home as a full-time caregiver to my mother. While God told me I was to return home, He did not give me the details on when, how and why. (Isaiah 55:9, NIV) Although I tried preparing for it, I quickly learned, some assignments he only gives the instruction, saving the details to increase our faith along the way. He will allow melt-downs to accomplish “missions”. Truth is God’s vantage point is