F.R.E.E. is a Four-Letter Word

You all know how helpful dropping f-bombs has been during my experience with FBC, right?  Well, recently I came across another (much more fabulous!) “F” word to associate with FBC:  F.R.E.E. Last week I received an email out of the blue from Bethany Kandel. In addition to her kind words about The Silver Pen, she… Continue reading F.R.E.E. is a Four-Letter Word

Caregiver Fatigue

As I wrote recently, caregiving can be a demanding and stressful experience, either personally or professionally. Sometimes I don’t think that caregivers get enough credit for what they do. “Caregiver fatigue” is a serious condition characterized by a gradual lessening of compassion over time. I know it sounds rotten, but I’ve seen it happen and… Continue reading Caregiver Fatigue

Role Reversal

Learning how to rely on people when I had FBC (f-bomb breast cancer for new readers) was a brutal learning curve. As a nurse and social worker, I had always been the caregiver. And I liked it that way. Until my diagnosis, I had always been a do-it-yourselfer (except when it comes to craft projects).… Continue reading Role Reversal

Caring for the Caregiver

In the world of f-bomb cancer and other illnesses, a “Caregiver” is someone who is responsible for attending to the physical, emotional, or financial needs of another person. There are formal and informal caregivers. Formal caregivers are trained professionals paid for their services. Hiring professional caregivers is expensive. Really expensive as a matter of fact.… Continue reading Caring for the Caregiver