Realistic Self-Care
Anchor Phrase: My well-being matters too.
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
- What have been the effects of this new diagnosis on your life and well-being?
- In what ways do you imagine this diagnosis will impact your life and well-being moving forward?
- What reactions do you have or emotions do you experience when you hear us 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?
Guided Meditation
Essays and Poetry
My Body is like a Honda Civic
The Civic is driven with multiple indicator lights blazing on the dashboard,
each of which is ignored
or deemed unimportant,
since the car continues to run.
Take Care of Yourself
“Don’t forget to take care of yourself,” they say,
looking pityingly into my dark circle-ringed eyes.
I see their Concern, Sincerity, Worry. But I wonder,
Do they think it was a reminder I needed?