“For ten years I was responsible for my parents’ care upon their emigration from the UK.  My mother was diagnosed with a progressive brain disorder and my father with emphysema, and later Pick’s, a type of Alzheimer’s disease.  At first, it was easy.  I settled them in a senior apartment complex with all the support they needed.  I helped my mother select a scooter, wheelchair, walker and bathing aids.  Then, as their diseases progressed, I sought the assistance of home care.  Soon, I had to take over their financial affairs.  Finally I was pressured into relocating them to a nursing home.  I was now supporting their total care.  There were many occasions when I felt completely alone with no help from the healthcare system.  As a result, I truly understand the overwhelming pressures of care giving, balancing the responsibilities of home and work and the emotional strain that accompanies the coordination of care over a prolonged time.”

– Carol Edwards SRN, RN, ALCA