Pam and Mike Estes are military caregivers with an extraordinary story of dedication and resilience. At age 19, their son Jason, a brave veteran, faced severe challenges with a traumatic brain injury and burns during his service in Iraq. From the life-altering phone call that started it all, Pam and Mike's journey has been marked by their strength and determination, all while navigating the complexities of the healthcare system.

Their story isn't just a testament to their family's love and commitment; it's an inspiring tale for military families who find themselves in similar caregiving roles. Pam and Mike's experiences underscore the importance of seeking support, adapting to changing circumstances, and never giving up in the face of adversity.

In this episode, we'll delve into their remarkable journey, uncovering the valuable insights and guidance they've gained over the last 17 years. Join us as we explore their story, drawing inspiration from their unyielding spirit and discovering the essential lessons they have to offer for anyone on their caregiving journey.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the unique caregiving experiences of military families and gain insights into their journeys of resilience and strength.
• Explore the challenges caregivers face and learn how they navigate the healthcare system, inspiring your own caregiving journey.
• Understand the importance of support organizations for military caregivers and learn how they can provide valuable resources and guidance in your caregiving role.
• Find out how to discover activities and therapies that can drive recovery for your loved ones with brain injuries, boosting their progress and well-being.
• Discover self-care strategies for caregivers in challenging situations, empowering you to take care of yourself while caring for your loved one with a brain injury.

About Pam and Mike:

Caregivers for son Jason, who was severely injured in an IED blast in Baghdad, Iraq on December 11, 2005. Jason suffered a traumatic brain injury, 2nd and 3rd degree burns to 60% of his body, and multiple leg fractures leading to a lower leg amputation. 

Both worked at full-time jobs (Mike, a Systems Engineer, and Pam, a Payroll Manager) while caring for Jason until their move from MD to VA in 2016. Following the move to VA, Mike and Pam have continued their caregiver roles and advocating for continued therapies. Mike has participated in the Wounded Warrior Project Caregiver’s Summit (which led to caregiver benefits). Pam was a member representing caregivers on the VA Advisory Committee of OIF/OEF Veterans and Families appointed by VA Secretary James Nicholson.

Mike and Pam also have a daughter and son-in-law and, in 2020, welcomed a grandson.

Wounded Warrior Project
www.woundedwarriorproject.org
Matt Schultz (based out of Jack

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Dr. Colleen Richardson serves as the Executive Director (ED) of the Caregiver
Support Program (CSP), Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Dr. Richardson is
the principal advisor for the Caregiver Support Program, which provides resources
and education to Veterans and their Caregivers. Dr. Richardson is currently
responsible for the national implementation and oversight of two national programs
and associated services for the CSP, the Program of General Caregiver Support
Services and the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers. As
the Executive Director of the CSP, her responsibility is to sustain the program in
accordance with Public Law 111-163, Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health
Services Act of 2010, and the VA MISSION Act of 2018. Dr. Richardson directs a
Program Office with an annual budget of $1.8 billion, overseeing the delivery of care
to more than 55,000 Veterans and caregivers.

Prior to joining the CSP, Dr. Richardson served as the Chief of Psychology at the North Texas Health Care System in Dallas, Texas where she oversaw the Community Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOC) and the clinical practice of over 85 psychologists within the Mental Health Service.

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Struggling to find home health services for his father, Lance A. Slatton sheds light on many caregivers' challenges. The staff shortage makes it even harder to find suitable care, causing unnecessary stress. Home health services are vital for caregivers but are often overlooked or not fully provided, adding to the burden. Just when Lance thought he was getting closer to finding help, a sudden obstacle leaves him questioning whether he'll ever find the assistance he needs.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover caregivers' challenges when accessing support and learn strategies to overcome them.
• Understand the importance of effective communication and early intervention in healthcare and how it can benefit both the caregiver and the care recipient.
• Explore caregiving's impact on the caregiver's personal and professional life and learn techniques to balance both roles effectively.
• Gain insights into the frustrations caregivers experience when trying to navigate the healthcare system and discover ways to advocate for better information and assistance.
• Learn about the resources and support available for caregivers, including the importance of respite care and how it can provide much-needed relief and self-care opportunities.

About Lance:

Lance A. Slatton is a senior case manager at Enriched Life Home Care Services in Livonia, MI. He also hosts "All Home Care Matters", a podcast and YouTube channel. Lance was also named a 50 under 50 for 2023. By subscribing to the show, you will access a wealth of information and tips to help you provide the best possible care for your loved one. 

All Home Care Matters is a multiple award-winning podcast and YouTube show devoted to helping families, caregivers, and loved ones navigate long-term care issues. All Home Care Matters received the Silver Creator Award from Google & YouTube in 2023. This award is only for 0.5% of the over 80 million YouTube channels. He also received the Academy of Interactive Visual Arts Award of Distinction for Film in Health and Wellness.

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Fisher House Foundation is best known for its network of nearly 100 comfort homes
where military and veteran families can stay at no cost while a loved one receives
treatment.  These homes are located at major military and VA medical facilities
nationwide and in Europe, close to the medical facilities they serve. Fisher Houses have
up to 21 suites with private bedrooms and baths.  Families share a common kitchen,
laundry facilities, a warm dining room, and an inviting living room.  Fisher House
Foundation ensures that there is never a lodging fee.  Since its inception, the program has saved military and veteran families an estimated $575 million in out-of-pocket costs for lodging and transportation.  

Fisher House Foundation also operates the Hero Miles Program, using donated frequent flyer miles to bring family members to the bedside of injured service members as well as the Hotels for Heroes program uses donated hotel points to allow family members to stay at hotels near medical centers without charge.  The Foundation also manages an awards program recognizing programs that support military and veteran communities and scholarship funds for military children, spouses, and children of fallen and disabled veterans. 

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Helen Bauer, a certified hospice and palliative care nurse, has extensive experience navigating the complexities of end-of-life care. As her husband's aunt's medical power of attorney, Helen confronted her fears and strived to honor her wishes without preparation and support. Now, she shares invaluable insights and strategies to help you provide optimal care and effectively plan for your loved ones during this challenging stage.

With her field experience and passion for fostering connection, Helen's personal caregiving journey brings a unique perspective to the conversation. Whether you're seeking a deeper understanding or looking for the necessary knowledge and tools, Helen Bauer's expertise empowers you to navigate this difficult time with confidence and compassion.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the importance of proactive planning for future healthcare decisions.
• Learn about the challenges and responsibilities of being a medical power of attorney.
• Understand the significance of advanced directives in end-of-life care.
• Find out why having a strong support system is crucial during this stage.
• Gain insight into the complexities of end-of-life care and planning.
• Explore practical strategies for providing compassionate care during the end-of-life stage.
• Gain knowledge on how to navigate legal and ethical considerations in end-of-life care.

About Helen:

Helen brings a wealth of knowledge and empathy to her conversations with end of life experts, personal and professional caregivers, and those personally impacted by hospice care.  These conversations shed light on the end of life experience and offer hope and encouragement to anyone who is navigating this delicate phase of life.  Through her experience as a Certified Hospice and Palliative Care Nurse and many years of practice as a hospice professional, Helen skillfully facilitates discussions that inspire, educate, and foster connection.  Helen is a trusted voice in the field, and is committed to making The Heart of Hospice podcast a platform for meaningful conversations about hospice and end of life care.

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Robert and Desiree Pardi were living a life many dream of - where their dreams were their daily reality. But then, the unexpected happened - a lump, a sharp pain, a diagnosis that shook their world. They found themselves in uncharted territory, steering through uncertainty. They didn't realize it then, but this unexpected twist was about to teach them a profound lesson and reshape their path. Let's explore how Robert's unwavering commitment and a new perspective transformed their hardship into a formative experience, marking the start of a new chapter in their lives...

Robert is a man who's intimately familiar with the trials, triumphs, and transformative power of caregiving. While he started his career in finance, it was under tragic circumstances that he discovered his true calling. His wife, Desiree's, battle with breast cancer led him to become her caregiver and life coach, assisting her in achieving her dreams. Now, as the founder of Possibility in Action, Robert draws on his personal experiences to inspire others, urging them to step out of their comfort zones and embrace a world full of possibilities. As an established author, speaker, and certified life coach, Robert seamlessly merges tragedy, resilience, and love in a way that deeply touches those who come across his work.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Examine the unmatched resilience and determination that caregivers tap into when facing adversity.
• Hear from male caregivers about the immense value of cultivating an environment that encourages open communication and support.
• Discuss the power of vulnerability and the cathartic release that comes from expressing pent-up emotions.
• Hear insights on finding moments of joy and beauty, even while navigating the challenging path of caregiving.
• Explore the practice of shifting perspectives in caregiving and the remarkable results that can come from accepting life's impermanence.

About Robert:

Robert Pardi is a beacon of inspiration, a change catalyst, and the founder of Possibility in Action™. With an unwavering commitment to helping individuals break free from conformity and embrace intentional living, Robert has carved a unique path that resonates with those seeking personal growth and authentic transformation. Drawing from his own journey of resilience and overcoming adversity, he guides others to embrace change, amplify their potential, and craft lives of purpose. As an accomplished author, captivating speaker, adjunct professor, and certified Life Coach, Robert's influence extends far beyond words, touching the lives of those who are ready to escape the ordinary and embark on a journey of limitless possibilities.

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Caregiving for parents with dementia, Louise Thompson's journey was filled with challenges and sacrifices. From the initial denial to the determination to keep her father at home, Louise and her brother did everything they could to support their parents. But an unexpected turn of events would push Louise to her limits, testing her strength and resilience in unimaginable ways. Find out how one decision changed everything for Louise and her family, leaving an open loop of uncertainty and heartache in this episode.

Louise Thompson is a seasoned corporate professional, wife, Nana to Millie, and a published author. With a law degree and accreditation as a mediator, Louise had a successful career before becoming a caregiver for her parents with dementia. She openly shares her experiences of how caregiving impacted her health, marriage, work, and even her driver's license. Through her company, My Folks, Louise continues to care for her mother while providing support and guidance to others navigating the challenges of dementia caregiving. Her relatable and honest approach offers a unique perspective on the difficulties faced by caregivers.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Understand the challenges of caregiving for parents with dementia to support your loved ones and yourself better.
• Discover the importance of creating a comprehensive caregiving plan while everyone is still able to participate actively.
• Explore the emotional toll of caregiving and learn strategies for self-preservation and maintaining a sense of well-being.
• Navigate the unique challenges of long-distance caregiving and find effective ways to coordinate care from a distance.
• Recognize the need for support and compassion in your caregiving journey, as both you and your loved ones with dementia deserve understanding and empathy.

About Louise:

Founder of Myfolks, Louise Thompson, is a seasoned corporate professional with a track record of over 25 years in the legal and commercial realms of blue-chip technology companies such as EDS, BT and SAP.  Louise’s leadership journey has seen her rise from spearheading commercial teams to contributing as a key member of executive leadership teams, where she has been MD and held overall P&L responsibility.  Her impact extends beyond the boardroom, as she has shared insights as an invited speaker, author of several publications and a TEDx talk.  She has a law degree, MSc,  is a qualified company director and a CEDR accredited mediator. She is married to Paul and lives in Sussex in the UK, she is a step-mother and nana to Millie. She tries to stay fit, aiming to match health span to lifespan as far as possible. 

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Life often throws us curveballs, and Lori Lemasters knows this all too well. She was adept at navigating life's storms, but when her mother suffered a sudden stroke, it took her into a new territory. Lori faced a tough decision, balancing cultural expectations and personal commitments. Her choice had far-reaching effects, marking a pivotal point in her journey as a caregiver. It's a story of love and dedication meeting unexpected challenges head-on, leaving Lori with a decision that could define her path.

Turning personal struggles into a source of guidance for others is not something everyone can do. But Lori is no ordinary person. As the founder of Care Partners Resource and Consulting, she provides empathetic support to those treading the challenging path of caregiving. In 2001, a series of unforeseen events led Lori from dealing with a divorce and mourning her father to caring for her sick mother and stepfather. This healing journey underscored the importance of emotional well-being, leading to her advocacy for therapeutic writing.

About Lori:

Lori Ramos Lemasters founded Care Partners Resource and Consulting and is a certified Journal to the Self ® Therapeutic Writing Instructor. She cared for her parents for the last eight years of their lives and used that experience to teach caregivers the benefits of using therapeutic journal writing to manage the challenges of caring for a loved one. Lori is a writer with publications under the last names of Lemasters and Cavallo. She has partnered with many local and national organizations to teach therapeutic journaling to caregivers. She created Caregivers Tuesday Talks Outside the Box, and in conjunction with AARP Care-FULL Conversations, both are available on the Care Partners Resource YouTube Channel. Most recently, Lori has published a journal/workbook, "You’re a Caregiver, Not a Saint: Yeah Write", which is available on Amazon or her website, CarePartnersResource.com

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Cindy Sim found herself in the role of a caregiver quite unexpectedly when her daughter was born prematurely. This journey introduced her to a world of vulnerability, pain, joy, and deep connections. It was a challenging path, filled with societal expectations and emotional exhaustion, but it also taught her the importance of self-care and understanding.

Taking these lessons to heart, Cindy founded Team Care Pal, where she now serves as CEO. She uses her personal experiences to support other caregivers across the US and Canada, providing them with much-needed empathy and guidance. While she excels as a business mentor, Cindy's true strength lies in her ability to connect with people on a personal level, offering wisdom and compassion to those she works with.

In this episode, we'll explore:

• The often-overlooked struggles that caregivers face daily, providing a more comprehensive view of their world.
• The importance of self-care for caregivers and how it contributes to better care delivery.
• The value of connecting with other caregivers for emotional support.
• How to balance family relationships while providing care.

About Cindy:

Cindy Sim is a dedicated industry leader and the CEO/Founder of Team CarePal, a company designed to support the millions of caregivers across Canada and beyond. Her inspiration stems from her personal experience in caring for her daughter and family members. Never did Cindy think that her commitment to caring for others would result in the creation of Team CarePal.  

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Oma's soup recipe 

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Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

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In 2020, registered nurse Carla Yorro found herself in the midst of a global health crisis. Her professional role put her right on the frontline, and unexpectedly, she also had to face personal challenges related to the pandemic. Her story gives a clear picture of how she navigated through these difficult times, learning to trust her instincts.

Carla, from Florida, not only worked in one of the areas hardest hit by COVID-19 but also contracted the virus herself. She supported her husband through his fight with the disease as well. Her professional background naturally led her to caregiving roles, but she soon realized that these responsibilities could take a toll on her mental health. Carla's unique experiences offer valuable insights for those struggling with mental health while caring for others during this pandemic.

In this episode, you’ll have an opportunity to:

• Understand the complexities of caregiving during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Learn about the unseen mental health impacts of caregiving responsibilities, backed by real-life experiences.
• Understand the importance of self-care and how caregivers can set boundaries.
• Appreciate the personal growth that can come from the caregiving journey, often seen as a thankless task.

Carla's story is both insightful and relatable, shedding light on the often-overlooked aspects of caregiving during a health crisis.

About Carla:

Carla Yorro, a 28-year-old Registered Nurse based in central Florida, has been married her husband Daniel for four years as of August. She worked on the frontlines during the pandemic in a COVID unit for almost a year and faced burnout in her career as a result. Carla and Daniel are Christian ministers and hosted a podcast until Daniel's health turned for the worst.

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