our story - Hannah B and me

People often ask if I always knew I'd be here doing this - caregiving. If I was born a caregiver. If it is in my blood. I laugh to myself each and every time. The answer is NO. 

As I reflect back, there are several reasons I believe my parents knew this to be my destiny. First, they were old when they had me. Ha! I said it, they were. At their age, I was a surprise of a lifetime. 

Next, they prepared me as early as possible to be able to care for them as they grew older. From doctor visits, meetings with attorneys, banking, you name it, I was there with them. At an early age when most kids are watching cartoons on Saturday mornings, I would be headed into a local bank branch with my parents into the office with my father. My parents explained the importance of having a personal relationship with your banker. I was introduced to bank managers and tellers; always expected to firmly shake hands and smile. It was my parent's goal that I understood the transactions impacting their accounts and felt comfortable interacting with different types of people. To answer the question before you even ask, yes, I was able to get a bank lollipop before we left but I understood early on that these trips were all about business. At the time I actually thought this was what every young child did at the age of 8, no, it wasn't, but I am grateful. I'm grateful I met physicians, insurance agents, attorneys, and bankers at an early age as well as how and when to ask the important questions.

After losing my father in my early twenties, I thought my mom would live forever and be completely self sufficient, after all, she was physically the healthiest woman I knew. Then came acute memory loss, dementia, and now Alzheimer's disease. Having that solid foundation and knowledge of my parents' affairs, I was able to step into the role seamlessly. This is not the same story for everyone. My experience, I now know, is rare and quite unique, still I am very grateful. 

Those experiences provided a training ground, the roadmap for who I am today. My education and career path were born of those encounters. Most importantly, it shaped how I now care for and love on my mother. So much came from those early life lessons with Hannah B and Me. 

Today I am at point where I am able to share solutions and help others with this journey.