When my mom was diagnosed with lung cancer that had spread to her brain, our world shifted in ways I could never have imagined. Yet, one thing remained constant—her incredible strength. My mom wasn’t defined by fragility; she faced her diagnosis with the same grace, courage, and determination that had always been her hallmark. Her resilience inspired me to step into the role of her caregiver with an open heart and unwavering commitment.
The decision to become her full-time caregiver wasn’t difficult. When she needed me, I didn’t hesitate to quit my job. A career could wait; being there for my mom couldn’t. It was an honor to care for her, to ensure she felt loved, supported, and dignified every step of the way. While I didn’t have a large support system, I was fortunate to have my aunt—my mom’s sister—by my side during the initial stages. Together, we made sure my mom felt surrounded by the love she so deeply deserved.
In those early days, my mom and I found joy in the little things. Strolls in the fresh air, shared lunches, trips to her favorite Dollar Store, and cozy evenings watching reruns of Walker, Texas Ranger became our cherished moments of connection and self-care. These simple activities brought her glimpses of normalcy and allowed us to create memories that I will cherish forever.
As her needs grew, I knew I had to stay organized to ensure everything ran smoothly. I planned all her doctor’s appointments and meals meticulously, relying on daily planners to keep track of every detail. Managing her care required structure and preparation, but it also taught me the importance of taking care of myself.
Small rituals became my anchors—journaling my thoughts, savoring a warm cup of coffee, or stealing a few quiet moments to reflect. These simple acts of self-care kept me grounded, while my faith and inner strength carried me through the most challenging times. Though my support system was small, it was enough to keep me steady. I also came to understand the value of asking for help, even when it felt uncomfortable, because caregiving is not a journey meant to be walked alone.
To my fellow caregivers, I want to share this: your well-being is just as vital as the care you provide.
That’s why I created a Self-Care Journal and Self-Care Planner for caregivers. These tools helped me stay organized and centered, and they can do the same for you.
Click here to grab your copy today!