Behind the Care

In this episode of Behind the Care, we connect with Suneet Jaswal, a registered dietitian with Calgary Meals on Wheels, who brings both professional expertise and lived experience to the conversation. Suneet explores the everyday nutrition challenges family and friend caregivers face—especially when supporting a loved one often means their own well-being takes a back seat. He shares practical, realistic strategies to help caregivers stay nourished during busy days, along with clear guidance on building balanced meals aligned with Canada's Food Guide. Suneet also discusses the affordability and accessibility of Meals on Wheels, while introducing the concept of "nutrition in disguise"—a thoughtful approach to preparing meals that remain nourishing while appealing to care recipients with changing tastes or appetites. He further highlights the importance of maintaining dignity and choice at mealtimes to help create a more positive, low-stress atmosphere. Drawing from his own experience supporting his grandmother, Suneet offers a grounded perspective on making nutrition more manageable, flexible, and sustainable for both caregivers and those they support.

In this episode of Behind the Care, we chat with Anna-Lisa Christilaw, a caregiver based in Banff, Alberta, whose journey caring for her parents profoundly shaped who she is today. Anna-Lisa shares how this deeply personal experience tested her resilience while strengthening her faith and giving her the courage to navigate some of the most challenging moments of caregiving. Drawing strength from her connection to nature and spirituality, she reflects on how honoring those values helped her face adversity head-on and find meaning through uncertainty. What began as a family caregiving chapter ultimately sparked a powerful sense of purpose, leading Anna-Lisa into the world of caregiver advocacy. Now one of Caregivers Alberta's most passionate ambassadors and program facilitators, she uses her lived experience to support and uplift caregivers across the Bow Valley Region and Alberta as a whole.

In the second episode of Behind the Care, we chat with Karla Meggison, a double-duty caregiver originally from Mexico City who now calls Edmonton, Alberta home. Karla opens up about her experience caring for both her uncle and her mother-in-law—an experience that not only tested her strength and resilience but also inspired her to pursue caregiving as a full-time career. Now working as a healthcare aide with Nurse Next Door, Karla shares the challenges she faced along her complex journey, how she found the inner resolve to overcome them, and the deep passion that continues to guide her work. She also reflects on the profound power of compassion—reminding us that true caregiving comes from the heart and that the love we give can make all the difference in someone's life.

In the inaugural episode of Behind the Care, we sit down with Donna Strongman, a rural caregiver living just outside Wildwood, Alberta. As the primary caregiver for both her husband and grandson, Donna shares her deeply personal story—how she stepped into the caregiving role, the challenges she's faced, and the strategies she uses to support her own mental health and well-being. She also offers thoughtful advice for new caregivers who may be navigating this role for the first time.

"Real caregivers. Real stories."

Behind the Care is a podcast that shines a light on the over one million family and friend caregivers across Alberta—people who quietly and courageously care for loved ones every day. From parents and partners to children, neighbours, and community members, these unsung heroes often give without recognition and support.

Each episode explores the emotional, physical, and practical realities of caregiving, sharing powerful personal stories that reveal the resilience, compassion, and strength it takes to care for others while also trying to care for yourself.

Alongside caregivers, you'll also hear from researchers, advocates, and experts in Alberta and beyond who are working to create meaningful change and better support systems for those who give so much.

Behind the Care is more than just a podcast—it's a space to listen, learn, and honour the voices of caregivers. Because behind every caregiver is a story worth hearing.