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Self, Sacrifice, and Service: A Caregiver's Notebook
Jennifer Jenkins embodies the unwavering spirit of a lifelong caregiver. Her journey began at just 15, caring for her grandmother after cancer surgery. Later, tragedy struck when her brother, James, was wounded in Iraq. Alongside raising her infant child, Jennifer became his full-time caregiver and a tireless advocate for wounded veterans. Her responsibilities extended to her mother following a stroke, and despite these immense challenges, Jennifer welcomed a premature daughter into her life.
Jennifer emphasizes the importance of counseling and self-care, including journaling and yoga, throughout her incredible journey. While gradually transitioning some of her brother's care to his partner, she remains a dedicated caregiver and an inspiration to those balancing family and the extraordinary demands of caregiving. Jennifer's story is a testament to resilience, compassion, and the necessity of support for those who dedicate their lives to caring for others.
About Jennifer:
Jennifer Jenkins understands the complexities of being a full-time caregiver. “I had to start from scratch finding the answers,” says Jennifer. “My brother’s care required a unique set of skills that my background did not include. That’s why the connections I’ve made through Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) have been invaluable.”
In 2005, her brother James was wounded in combat while on a mission with his Army Stryker Brigade in Iraq. James endured a traumatic brain injury (TBI), partial hearing and vision loss, damage to his spine, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Jennifer’s journey has helped her understand the sacrifices, challenges, and unmet needs that caregivers face daily. Her message of love and support is clear and empathetic: “I do not see my brother’s needs as a burden. If I had to drop everything to help him, I would, and, quite frankly, I sometimes have. Thankfully, Wounded Warrior Project is always there to help us, too.”
Support the show
Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver
Sisterhood of Care, LLC
Website: www.confessionsofareluctantcaregiver.com
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By Natalie Elliott Handy and JJ Elliott Hill
5
3737 ratings
Jennifer Jenkins embodies the unwavering spirit of a lifelong caregiver. Her journey began at just 15, caring for her grandmother after cancer surgery. Later, tragedy struck when her brother, James, was wounded in Iraq. Alongside raising her infant child, Jennifer became his full-time caregiver and a tireless advocate for wounded veterans. Her responsibilities extended to her mother following a stroke, and despite these immense challenges, Jennifer welcomed a premature daughter into her life.
Jennifer emphasizes the importance of counseling and self-care, including journaling and yoga, throughout her incredible journey. While gradually transitioning some of her brother's care to his partner, she remains a dedicated caregiver and an inspiration to those balancing family and the extraordinary demands of caregiving. Jennifer's story is a testament to resilience, compassion, and the necessity of support for those who dedicate their lives to caring for others.
About Jennifer:
Jennifer Jenkins understands the complexities of being a full-time caregiver. “I had to start from scratch finding the answers,” says Jennifer. “My brother’s care required a unique set of skills that my background did not include. That’s why the connections I’ve made through Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) have been invaluable.”
In 2005, her brother James was wounded in combat while on a mission with his Army Stryker Brigade in Iraq. James endured a traumatic brain injury (TBI), partial hearing and vision loss, damage to his spine, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Jennifer’s journey has helped her understand the sacrifices, challenges, and unmet needs that caregivers face daily. Her message of love and support is clear and empathetic: “I do not see my brother’s needs as a burden. If I had to drop everything to help him, I would, and, quite frankly, I sometimes have. Thankfully, Wounded Warrior Project is always there to help us, too.”
Support the show
Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver
Sisterhood of Care, LLC
Website: www.confessionsofareluctantcaregiver.com
Like us on Facebook!
Tweet with us on Twitter!
Follow us on Instagram!
Watch us on Youtube!
Pin us on Pinterest!
Link us on LinkedIn!
Tune in on Whole Care Network
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