When Vanessa Carter became the primary caregiver for her father Ted, who was living with Alzheimer’s, her life changed completely. She had already cared for her mother through dementia and now found herself caring for her father while raising her young son — part of what’s known as the “sandwich generation.” Vanessa often felt torn between responsibilities, battling exhaustion and guilt, wondering if she was doing enough. Over time, she learned that caregiving isn’t just about managing memory loss; it’s about offering connection, dignity, and joy even in small moments. With support and training, she found strength in compassion and became an advocate for caregivers everywhere.
“Caregiving taught me that love can still shine through, even when memory fades.” – Vanessa Carter
Learn More: Find online caregiver training and support at Caregiverlist Training University, where you can build confidence and skills to care with compassion.
When Tom was diagnosed with young-onset Alzheimer’s at just 60, his wife Mary Swenson decided she wouldn’t let the disease take away their joy.
Instead of waiting for life to slow down, they made a bucket list of dreams they still wanted to share from skydiving to seeing gorillas in Africa. Every adventure reminded them that love and connection are stronger than any diagnosis.
Mary says, “You can sit around and wait, or you can choose adventure.”
Her story is a powerful reminder that caregiving can be both challenging and beautiful, filled with courage, laughter, and purpose.
Learn More: Find Alzheimer’s caregiver training and state-approved courses at Caregiverlist.com to help families like Mary’s provide better care every day.
