Ellen Ratner inherited a love of music from her mother who loved to sing. Ethel had three loves: her husband, music, and her daughter, Ellen, whom Ethel referred to as “my life.” The pressure of being on the receiving end of Ethel’s adoration would irritate Ellen, especially because her mother had a larger than life persona. But after her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, Ellen would come to appreciate the legacy of love and music that Ethel left for her only child.

Red Hot Mama | Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregiving

Welcome to the Caregiver Storyteller Podcast, presented by CaringKind. In this heartfelt series, hosted by Dr. Anne Kenny, we delve into the diverse world of Alzheimer's and dementia caregiving. Through each story, we explore the steadfast dedication and unique experiences of those who walk this journey. Our podcast is more than educational—it’s a space of empathy and understanding, highlighting the resilience, joy, and deep emotional connections that form in the face of adversity. As a leader in dementia services, CaringKind is committed to illuminating these stories

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Dr. Shaw noted the loss of affection in a relationship in which ‘the luster had not worn off in 30 years of marriage’. When his wife Rebecca said that she could not remember anything from an article she had read three times, piecing this with the loss of affection. Dr Shaw knew that their journey with dementia had begun.  He pivoted from radiation oncology to mental health counselor specializing in grief and developed a memory counseling program while he partnered in the care of his wife.  Learn more from his fascinating story and adopting changes into their life to nurture his relationship with his wife, care for himself, and remake his career.  It’s a beautiful love story and a story with powerful insights and hope.


Dr. Shaw | Alzheimer’s & Dementia Caregiving

Jordana’s mother began showing signs of dementia relatively early. Luckily, her father was newly retired and was able to pretty quickly shift into the role of primary caregiver. Still, caregiving became an activity shared by both father and daughter. Having a wife and mother with dementia simply became the new normal.

The New Normal | Alzheimer’s & Dementia Caregiving

Annette Perpinan met Ralph when dinner for two at a nice restaurant in Manhattan cost just $25.00. It was only when Ralph was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s did Annette see the signs retroactively. With no one else to help, and a medical system that didn’t seem to care, Annette took on the challenge of caring for Ralph until the end of his life.

On Your Own | Alzheimer’s & Dementia Caregiving

Steve Zellner is an only child who became the primary caregiver for his mother, Sylvia, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in her 80s. As the disease progressed, Sylvia became uncharacteristically aggressive, at one point sending Steve to the hospital with a brain injury. Steve shares this harrowing story, along with memories of kinder days from an otherwise idyllic childhood in New York City.

Red Hot Mama | Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregiving

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