Welcome to another episode of Simply Unbreakable brought to you by Chronically Simple. Your hosts, Kristy Dickinson and Brenda Agnew are very excited to be accompanied by Dia Rahman who is a first-generation immigrant and a young caregiver working in tech. Dia is the oldest daughter in her family and became the primary caregiver to her mom in the middle of the pandemic after she had a horrific accident. She has been a patient herself since the age of 16 and that is why she uses the insights she gained from her experience as a way to navigate the health care system to advocate for her mother and her complex needs as a caregiver.

 

Key Takeaways:

[1:26] Dia talks about herself in her role as a caregiver.

[3:49] Dia talks about the transition into adapting to her role as a caregiver.

[8:08] What are the differences between navigating the care system from a caregiver perspective vs being a patient?

[11:17] Dia explains why documentation is everything.

[14:48] Was Dia and her mother impacted by the restrictions mandated during the pandemic?

[20:28] It is unrealistic to expect that a patient that does not speak the language would have what it takes to be able to navigate the health care system.

[21:14] “Essential” turned into what is convenient to certain people.

[24:50] Kristy, Brenda, and Dia highlight the emotional aspect of being an advocate for a loved one.

[33:01] Brenda shares a personal experience while meeting a committed and empathetic doctor that treated her child.

[34:33] Dia shows her appreciation of nurses’ work and dedication.

[35:39] How has becoming a caregiver affected Dia’s health?

[43:40] Dia addresses the difference in perception that people have about the life of a caregiver.

[45:33] Has been a young caregiver posted greater challenges for Dia?

 

Mentioned in this episode:

Brought to you by Chronically Simple

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Contact  Dia Rahman on Twitter

 

Simply Unbreakable is where ideas are shared and conversations about navigating the healthcare system are had. The ideas shared are those of the individuals and should not be interpreted as medical advice.

 

Tweetables and quotes:

“No one really plans to become a caregiver.”

“Essential” turned into what is convenient to certain people.”

“A little bit of humanity goes a long way.”

“Just because someone carries it well it doesn’t mean it is not heavy.”