Anchor Phrase: Delegating is a Form of Self-Care
Dear Caregiver,
The phrase that will anchor us in this chapter (and beyond) is “I’m part of the story.”
Your person has recently received a life-changing diagnosis and at this moment all of the focus is on them. But I know from personal experience that your life has also just been flipped upside down and yet very little attention is being given to you. You may even feel as if you’re not allowed to express your feelings about how challenging this is because you aren’t the one who is ill or injured.
Friend, I’m here to tell you that you are part of the story, that I see and acknowledge that this diagnosis impacts you in countless ways, and that here, in this chapter, you will find resources to process that reality and be supported as you do.
I’m so sorry this is happening to you, but since it is, I’m glad you’ve found your way here.
reflection questions
- In what ways has your loved one’s diagnosis had an impact on your life?
- What reactions do you have or emotions do you experience when you hear me say that you are part of the story?
- What might be at the root of those feelings?
- How might this season of caregiving be different if you go into it with the understanding that you are part of the story?
- What can you do to help yourself believe and remember that you are part of the story?
Guided Meditation
Guided Meditation for a new diagnosis
podcast episodes
Essays and Poetry
Drowning
I feel like I’m drowning.
Not like you would imagine,
a lone swimmer bobbing along in the middle of the ocean,
with no one for miles.
No, I feel as if I’m drowning in a well-populated area.
Isn’t That Enough?
I glare at the beautifully manicured sidewalks of neighbors,
scraped clean by snow removal services, snow blowers, or healthy husbands,
of which I have none.