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Todd Keitz shares his journey as a caregiver for his parents. After noticing she looked worse each week on video calls, he organized doctor's appointments and flew to Florida to accompany his mother to visits. He advocated strongly for her medical care, successfully transferring her to a better facility. Todd took over his parents' healthcare decisions and was their main advocate during his mother's 17 hospitalizations over 22 months. He also helped his father make difficult decisions about cancer treatment when he was diagnosed a few months later.

Todd discusses the emotional toll of caregiving. He experienced PTSD from constant cancer testing and waiting for results. Todd shares how he regained some control in his life after caregiving by writing about his journey and starting a podcast. He hopes to help other caregivers by sharing resources and stories. Todd emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive mindset while caregiving and finding one's voice when advocating for patients with medical professionals.

About Todd:

Todd Kietz is a passionate advocate for social good with a history of integrating community engagement and social impact into his life, starting from his teenage years volunteering in senior living centers. His commitment to social change has led him to create inter-generational programs, volunteer for Special Olympics, develop business curriculum for high schools, teach for Junior Achievement, mentor for Big Brothers Big Sisters, and consult in the healthcare industry. He also worked with the South Korean government on technology company consultancy in the 2000s.

In 2012, Todd co-founded Stock4Good, aiming to simplify stock donations to 501(c)3 organizations. In 2018, he moved to Florida to care for his parents, facing life-threatening diseases, an experience that inspired him to start My Care Friends, a platform supporting caregivers and patient advocates. Additionally, Todd contributes to the caregiving community as a member of the National Advisory Council of the American Association of Caregiving Youth and serves on the board of SayAh!, focusing on health literacy. He is also the Founder/CEO of 17 Commerce, bridging healthcare and technology through exceptional products.

Todd holds a degree from Temple University, where he studied Business and Economics.

Connect with Todd: 

Website: www.mycarefriends.com & www.17commerce.com
Twitter/X: @toddkeitz @mycarefriends @1day1weekblog @17commercellc
Instagram: myca

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