Good Hard Story Podcast

Episode 78: Self Care for Caregivers with Ken Tada and Joni Eareckson Tada


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If there is such a thing as icons of caregiving, Joni Eareckson Tada and her husband Ken are those icons. After a diving accident at 17, Joni became a quadriplegic. Ken and Joni met and joined lives years later. As Ken put it, he “married into disability.” 

These two saints have cared for one another faithfully for over 40 years, but it’s not always perfect. Joni and Ken were generous to share about the hard conversations they’ve had to have about overwhelm and burnout. Even through all the hard, this couple affirms again and again how the experiences of caregiving and care-receiving have shown them the heart of Christ. 

From healthy communication tips to practical ideas for self care to receiving care well—WOW, do we have a lot to learn from these two?! Join us at the table to receive loads of wisdom from two of my heroes, including…

  • Ken’s experience of dating and marrying someone with a disability
  • What it takes to care for Joni’s body in a day
  • How Joni expresses her gratitude for the care she receives
  • Practical rhythms of restoration and self care for both caregivers and care-receives
  • Navigating conflict in the complexities of caregiving relationships
  • Keeping a sense of joy in their unusual marriage 
  • Healthy communication tips 
  • If you are craving some real talk about all things caregiving and care-getting, this episode is for you.



    Joni and Friends website

    Hope Heals by Katherine and Jay Wolf


    Scriptures referenced in this episode:

    1 Samuel 16:7

    John 15:13


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