Parenting UP! Caregiving adventures with comedian J Smiles

When love is rekindled and a family is beautifully blended, the heart sings a tune of joy – until a shadow, quiet and unassuming, threatens to mute the melody. That's where our guest's story begins, with a love so bright against the creeping dusk of Alzheimer's. Our guest, Eunice Sykes, joins me in sharing the raw and honest paths of caregiving, emphasizing the bittersweet symphony of cherishing the sparks of joy while navigating the fog of cognitive decline.

Life's unpredictability never ceases to amaze me. Don's vibrant spirit, a beacon of how to live with gusto even as Alzheimer's loomed, became Eunice's muse as she and he faced this terminal diagnosis head-on. They waltzed through preparation and planning, seizing cruises and jazz festivals, ingraining each precious moment firmly in their hearts. This episode is a testament to the fighting spirit within us all, threaded with intimate journal entries that lay bare the emotional and practical tenets of living and loving through adversity.

But the stage of caregiving is not a solo act; it calls for a fortitude that's nurtured in self-care and community. Yoga became Eunice's sanctuary when the world shut down, and she discovered comfort in the embrace of an online tribe. As laughter and lightness can still punctuate even the darkest days, this journey is also one of learning, sharing, and embracing the humor that helps us find balance. Through our discussion, she plants seeds of resilience, nurturing the growth of a community where strength and support are shared freely among those walking the caregiver's path.

#alzheimersawareness
#caregivingjourney
#retirementjourney
#Caregivingtips 

Support the show

"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/@parentingup
TEXT  'PODCAST"  to  +1 404 737 1449  - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review! 

Every caregiver has their Everest, and for me, it was trying to create that perfect TV moment with my mom, Zetty. As she battles advanced Alzheimer's, I balance the unpredictable world of caregiving with my role as a comedian and podcaster. This episode is a raw and humorous recount of our attempt to watch my television appearance together—a plan thwarted by caregiving surprises and Zetty's own schedule. But there's a silver lining in the form of a recorded show waiting for us, a reminder that sometimes, the rerun can be just as precious as the live broadcast.

Embrace the confidence of legends—Muhammad Ali's swagger, Cristiano Ronaldo's poise—as we explore why such self-assuredness is crucial, especially for caregivers who are often society's unsung heroes. Through laughter, struggles, and tales of unexpected turns, we celebrate the small victories and the profound connections that enrich the caregiving experience. Share this journey with me and remember, the next time you cross paths with a caregiver, a little recognition can go a long way in lifting their spirits.


#CaregiverChronicles 
#AlzheimersJourney 
#ComedyCaregiving 
#CaregiverStories 
#EmbracingChallenges 

Support the show

"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/@parentingup
TEXT  'PODCAST"  to  +1 404 737 1449  - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review! 

Ever been blindsided by life's cruel surprises? Andrew sure has. A brain aneurysm hit him out of nowhere--at the airport! This episode takes you on a journey as we learn about Andrew's fight for survival, and his journey to redefine himself in the face of adversity.

From a successful teacher and soon-to-be author to a full-time caregiver for his mother diagnosed with ALS, Andrew's story is one of resilience and the unwavering human spirit. He paints a vivid picture of the terrifying trip to the hospital, the uncertainty of what lay ahead, and the disruption of his life. But, it's not all gloom and despair. Andrew's acceptance of his circumstances, his shift to present-mindedness, and his exploration of faith lend to lessons on how to find stability amid life's most unpredictable moments.

And, humor. Andy's tales are punctuated with bouts of laughter, lightening the heavy weight of his experiences. From his funny interactions with his mother to his light-hearted take on his predicaments, Andrew teaches us that laughter, indeed, is the best medicine. He is a testament to the power of humor in navigating life's toughest challenges. Tune in to hear Andy's inspiring story, and learn how he found laughter, love, and life amid adversity.

#inspiration #SurvivorStories #alzheimersawareness #caregiversupoort #InspiringStories #aneurysmawareness

Support the show

"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/@parentingup
TEXT  'PODCAST"  to  +1 404 737 1449  - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review! 

Ever thought how our backgrounds and experiences shape the way we give and receive love? What if we could turn learning the language of love into a fun and interactive game? Join us as we engage in a captivating conversation with our guest, Paul, about the ground-breaking concept of the Five Love Languages. This episode promises to revolutionize the way you perceive and express love, while also enhancing your relationships.

Drawing on personal stories and experiences with the book, "The Five Love Languages," we discuss how we were inspired to enhance its concept and create a game based on it. This game not only aids in understanding the driving factors behind individuals but also stresses the importance of recognizing positive and negative influences passed down in families. We also journey into the power of shifting focus from annoyances to the positives in others.  

Finally, we examine the  role love languages play in caregiving. Paul shares real-life examples of how understanding love languages has positively influenced individuals and families. We also delve into the challenges and rewards of caregiving, emphasizing the significance of showing love and kindness. Whether you're a caregiver or someone keen on strengthening personal relationships, this episode is packed with great insights. So, tune in, and let's decode the languages of love together.

#LoveLanguages #FiveLoveLanguages #CaregivingWisdom #Caregivingtips 

Support the show

"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/@parentingup
TEXT  'PODCAST"  to  +1 404 737 1449  - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review! 

Have you ever wondered how artistry intertwines with caregiving? Today, we're chatting with Donna Olivia, a knowledgeable author, retired teacher, and caregiver who's been looking after her mother for 7 years. Brimming with Donna's deep-seated passion for authentic care, this episode uncovers her transformative journey, the lessons she's learned, and how she's harnessed her own power to become a more compassionate caregiver. 

We discuss Donna's book 'Grateful for Grace: Reflections on Caring for Mom' and her unique approach to caregiving, blending the journey with artistic elements that bring comfort and connection. As she talks about her mother's love for music and how she used the cultural significance of hair as a medium of care, you'll realize there's more than meets the eye when it comes to caregiving. 

Lean in as she shares how nurturing her mother has altered the dynamics within her family, giving way to a supportive system that has made her a happier caregiver. By breaking the stereotypes and reclaiming her power, Donna has created a new narrative around caregiving. Not only does she give practical tips for fellow caregivers, but she also lets us into the more intimate aspects of her journey - one that's marked by love, strength, and resilience. Get ready to be inspired and perhaps find a new perspective on caregiving.
#CaregivingJourney
#CaregiverStories
#TransformativeCare
#CaregiverPerspective
#CaregiverInspiration

Support the show

"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/@parentingup
TEXT  'PODCAST"  to  +1 404 737 1449  - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review! 

On this episode,  J speaks with co-host of the Remember Me Podcast and resilient figure in the caregiving world Maria Kent Beers. Her journey began with a mother diagnosed with Frontal Temporal Dementia (FTD) and ALS, leading her to discover a strength she never knew she possessed. Navigating medical systems is a daunting task, but Maria's story is one of determination and advocacy, reminding us all of the importance of speaking up for our loved ones.

Imagine connecting with someone despite never meeting them in person. That's exactly what happened between Maria and Rachel, another caregiver who also had a parent with FTD. Their shared experience served as the foundation for their podcast, "Remember Me". They delve into the raw realities of grief and loss but also emphasize the importance of accepting the good, even in times of struggle. Their stories underscore the transformative power of grief, invoking a sense of resilience and grace that is often required in caregiving.

But this journey isn't just about caregiving. It's about discovering therapy through creativity, music, and faith. Maria shares how her mother's art impacted others, and how music became a therapeutic tool during their trips to the doctor's office or a local Starbucks. The strength of her mother's faith also painted a picture of hope amidst the chaos. J and Maria wrap up the episode by diving into the lessons learned from the challenging journey of caregiving, shining a spotlight on the mental health aspect that often gets overshadowed. 

Join J and Maria as they explore the world of caregiving, embrace the good in difficult times, and learn how to parent themselves when their parents can no longer provide the support they need. This is an episode that goes beyond caregiving, touching upon personal growth, resilience, and the power of acceptance.

Subscribe to our YouTube page, share with a caregiver who needs a hug, and review on Apple Podcasts to keep walking this caregiving path with me.

Join Alzheimer's favorite duo for another journey of heavy reality sprinkled with love and laughter.

"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"

Support the show

"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/@parentingup
TEXT  'PODCAST"  to  +1 404 737 1449  - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review! 

Often times caregiving comes with surprises. In this episode of the Parenting Up podcast, J talks about when she was having a productive wave, planning her Comedy tour, creating with her staff, and boom —she is notified that Zetty - who is supposed to be in bed- is on flat on the floor.

Join J as she navigates going from a large-scale meeting for her upcoming comedy tour to aiding Zetty - who just got out of the hospital - off the floor in a matter of minutes.

Snuggle Up with today’s takeaways and be encouraged. 

Subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, subscribe to our YouTube Page, share with a caregiver who needs a hug, and keep walking this caregiving path with me.

Join Alzheimer's favorite duo for another journey of heavy reality sprinkled with love and laughter.

"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"

IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup

FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup

YT:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDGFb1t2RC_m1yMnFJ2T4jw

TEXT PODCAST to +1 404 737 1449 - to give J topic ideas, and feedback, say hi!

Support the show

"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/@parentingup
TEXT  'PODCAST"  to  +1 404 737 1449  - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review! 

Ever found yourself caught in the unexpected whirlwind of caregiving on what you thought was a typical day? Discover how I navigated through night-before-appointment anxiety and carried the weight of overwhelming responsibilities, learning to manage them using personal coping strategies -- humor and flexibility.

Ever had an encounter with an obstinate loved one refusing to get in a car? Hear about my hilarious adventure of getting Zetty into the vehicle and to her appointment on time. You'll learn how patience, empathy, and a light touch can turn even the most frustrating situations into opportunities for connection. There's no caregiver manual, but with creativity in problem-solving, we can ensure our Loved Ones feel secure and loved.

Stick around as I delve into the mental coping strategies I’ve developed through my caregiving journey. I’ll recount the tale of convincing Zetty to get into a 2nd car and arriving at her appointment on time, despite numerous obstacles. You’ll find that perseverance and humor are lifesavers when caring for a LO. Finally, I wrap-up with 3 signature SNUGGLE UPs  reminding us all that it’s okay when things don’t go as planned. Subscribe on your platform of choice, share with a caregiver who needs a hug, and review on iTunes to keep walking this caregiving path with me.

Join Alzheimer's favorite duo for another journey of heavy reality sprinkled with love and laugher.

Support the show

"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/@parentingup
TEXT  'PODCAST"  to  +1 404 737 1449  - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review! 

Amrit's personal journey from  being a weed-head to discovering yoga and meditation offers a compelling exploration of self-discovery and the transformative power of coaching. Imagine waking up just 30 minutes earlier than usual, embracing the quiet of the early morning to connect with yourself and the world. Sounds peaceful, doesn't it? In J Smiles' conversation with life coach and yoga teacher, Amrit Singh, we learned the immense value of such small moments of self-care, especially for those on the demanding journey of caregiving for a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer's. Amrit's unique blend of yoga, meditation, and coaching serves as a powerful stress-management tool, equipping caregivers to face their daily challenges head-on.

He emphasizes the importance of asking the right questions and reconnecting with one's true identity.

 As the world's best athletes and performers understand, you can't reach your peak without a little help. 

So join J, as we journey together in the pursuit of balance, personal growth, and the art of caring, with wisdom and insights from Amrit Singh.

Catch J's signature SNUGGLE UP ending for 3 provocative take aways.

TikTok: @amritsinghreinsch
Amrit's Website:
http://www.coachingnow.info

Support the show

"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/@parentingup
TEXT  'PODCAST"  to  +1 404 737 1449  - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review! 

Has the thought of becoming an unexpected caregiver for a LOVED ONE ever crossed your mind? Imagine the journey of a man thrown into this role, tasked with caring for his charismatic and beloved father after his mom dies. Join J Smiles as she welcomes Jeff Ton, whose heartfelt story ushers us into the emotional rollercoaster that is Frontal Temporal Dementia (FTD) caregiving. 

Against the backdrop of the shared love and respect for his father, a revered doctor and bishop, Jeff navigates us through the intense, sometimes baffling journey of a dementia with memory attached. He opens up about the struggle to get the correct diagnosis for his father and the unique strategies they adopted to keep up with his father's changing reality. His father's insistence on maintaining a sharp appearance, even as his condition worsened, is a testament to the human spirit and the complexities of FTD.

There is a wealth of insight in Jeff's story. He underscores the importance of self-care your way, the need for strong advocacy, and the tough decisions in telling your LO no. 

J and Jeff giggle throughout over the humorous antics of his father. 

Support the show

"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/@parentingup
TEXT  'PODCAST"  to  +1 404 737 1449  - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review!