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This week, Rayna Neises, your host, talks with Drew Brenner.  Drew is the founder of the Kansas Caregiver Network, an organization that links caregivers with the support and resources they need.  His ideas for this group grew from his personal caregiving experience with his mother.  Unfortunately, between the time of this recording in late 2020 and today, she passed away.  This episode is in memory of Drew’s, mom, Barbara Brenner.  

•  As a family caregiver, you are not alone in this battle and sometimes you just need a voice, an ear to listen, a pat on the back, or someone to say, “You’re doing a great job.”
• Family Caregiver Day, created by the Kansas Caregiver Network, is celebrated annually in December.
• The “I Care For” Program is a free card for caregivers to carry that alerts others that this person is responsible for the care of someone else.
• The Kansas Caregiver Network also provides a free Caregiver Bag containing a gait belt, gown, gloves, masks, and a journal.
• When you clash with the person you are caring for, it is a sign that you need to take a step back:
  • Go outside
  • Take a breath
  •  Drive around the block
  •  Walk the dog
  • Talk with someone
  • Scream
  • Find a respite program
•  Caregiver burnout is real and can happen to anyone.  Learn the signs and then seek out the help and support that you need.