What happens when caregiving transforms you so completely that it redirects your life's purpose? Susan Stern's remarkable journey takes us through two decades of caring for both parents—first as a long-distance caregiver for her father during his 10-year cancer battle, then as primary caregiver for her mother through a decade of Alzheimer's.
The conversation reveals the stark differences between these caregiving experiences while uncovering the universal challenges all caregivers face. Susan speaks candidly about the unexpected grief that blindsided her after her mother's passing—how she found herself "regrieving" her father too. Particularly moving is Susan's vulnerability around control. As a self-described Type A personality, caregiving forced her to become "comfortable with being uncomfortable" and to surrender her illusion of managing every outcome.
The transformation Susan experienced wasn't just personal but professional. Her caregiving journey ultimately led her to become a board-certified life coach specifically supporting family caregivers who are exhausted from overgiving. Whether you're currently caregiving, anticipating this role, or processing your past caregiving experiences, Susan's wisdom offers practical hope. Her encouragement to ask for help, find time for self-care, and recognize that "you're stronger than you think" serves as a powerful reminder that with faith and community, we can not only survive caregiving but emerge with unexpected gifts of resilience, purpose, and deeper connection.
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