The Mindful Caregiver: Self-Care Strategies from Lucas' Mom | Ep. 45

What does it take to navigate life's most challenging caregiving journeys with both grit and grace? Vivian explores this question with author and nonprofit founder Jessica Ronne in a deeply authentic conversation about faith, grief, and purpose. As Jess shares her path from receiving a devastating prenatal diagnosis to losing her first husband to brain cancer, Vivian's thoughtful questions help unpack the complex emotions of wrestling with God through anger and loss. Together they dive into the realities of being a lifelong caregiver, with Jess offering practical wisdom on accepting help and finding micro-moments of joy, while Vivian draws out the story of how God transformed Jess’ challenges into a beautiful ministry – including an unexpected second love story that made headlines. Their candid discussion reminds us that even in life's most demanding seasons, surrendering to God's plan can lead to extraordinary purpose.

 

GUEST BIO

Jessica Ronne is the author of several books, including Caregiving with Grit and Grace, and the associate producer of the documentary Unseen: How We’re Failing Parent Caregivers, which is available on streaming. She is the founder and Executive Director of The Lucas Project, a non-profit dedicated to providing recognition, respite, and resources to parent caregivers.  

Jess’ inspiring journey began when she became a widow within ten years of marriage after her husband passed away from a brain tumor in 2010. Left to raise their four children, including one needing lifelong care, she joined the other 16.3 million individuals serving as caretakers to children with special needs.

Jess’ life took a surprising turn when she was introduced to a young widower and father of three. In 2011, they blended their families with eight children. Drawing from her own experiences, Jess provides caregiving advice on the importance of being present with loved ones, embracing challenges as personal growth, finding strength in faith, and sharing with other caregivers. 

Jess and her husband Ryan live in Michigan with their eight children. She is also a speaker and podcast host of Coffee with Caregivers. 

 

Check out Jess’ story on the Today Show! 

https://today.com/video/couple-unites-after-losing-spouses-442569795902

 

The Lucas Project:  https://thelucasproject.org

Website: https://jessplusthemess.com

Facebook:  https://facebook.com/coffeewithcaregivers

Instagram: https://instagram.com/jessplusthemess

Pinterest:   https://pinterest.com/jessplusthemess/_created

Coffee with Caregivers Podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/coffee-with-caregivers/id1519009943

 

Amazon: Caregiving with Grit and Grace: 100 Days of Hope and Encouragement

https://shorturl.at/RtbTB

 

POWERFUL QUOTE from Jess Ronne

"For that caregiver that’s feeling overwhelmed and feels like they don’t have any time for themselves, I would encourage them to just try to find and incorporate what I like to call micro-moments of joy. Make a list of four or five things that really bring you  joy and incorporate those throughout your day.” 

 

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