Which of these best describes you?

I am a caregiver - About a half a year ago, my dad was slowly, but surely, adding up to all the symptoms of having bronchitis. It was extremely difficult having to see him undergo through so much denial of being sick when he as clearly was constantly out of breath, wheezing, not eating, etc. Eventually, after several days in the hospital, my dad was taken home where I was left to care for him with my mom. Together we had to make sure he was hydrated, taking his antibiotics and using his inhaler. Because of that, his asthma got worse so I believe I'll be left to care for him for sometime until he gets well again, but I don't mind.

If your loved one was experiencing signs of dementia, would you keep it a secret?

No - I think if a family member has a diagnosis, it shouldn't be something to be ashamed of. You should tell others in order to receive the help you need when caring for the loved one.

Who are you here for?

Parent - As previously explained, I am here because I am partly a caregiver for my father.

The thing I miss most is...

- The thing I miss most is when my dad didnt have to worry about taking his inhaler everywhere with him in case of an asthma/ coughing attack. Although, I know its for the better.

I first began to worry when...

- I first began to worry when my dad was in denial of the symptoms he clearly had to his illness. We began to push him to visit the doctor, and although he did, he would never take his appointments seriously and sometimes lie about how bad he truly felt.

The hardest part of my today was...

- Not much goes on during the day, but if something difficult does happen, its getting him to realize the severity of his illness. He claims he's better, but it took him 3 months to get there.

The best part of my day today was...

- The best part of the days is when my dad shows no symptoms of his illness, which means he's slowly make progress to a healthier lifestyle.

I didn't consider myself a caregiver until I had to...

- I didn't consider myself a caregiver until I had to secretly ensure everyday that my dad was taking his antibiotics and treatments properly.

I have found the most support from...

- I found my support when my dad was in the hospital and I had several family members visit to give us their reassurance, considering that day was so frantic and we didnt even have time to eat.

I have felt most abandoned by...

- I felt most abandoned when none of my friends understood the reasons behind me missing school so much, which was to go to the hospital to check up on the progress of my dad.

The thing that would surprise most people about my day is...

-

The funniest thing that has happened was...

-

The gift of being a caregiver is...

- Its, in a way, a blessing being a caregiver because my dad knows that im just as there for him as he is. He's always taken care of me, so by me taking care of him, he knows im willing to do the same.

- The biggest change I had to make was switching roles. Despite the fact that my dad still can work, move, eat and such, I simply just have to care for him in the way that I make sure he doesnt progress in his illness.