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Kevin Lorch's avatar

Your article addresses how caregivers abandon parts of themselves to deliver what their loved one needs. There is a pile of guilt to deal with, wondering if one is being selfish leaving their post, but those moments are essential in allowing the caregiver to maintain a sense of self.

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Jeannie Moloo's avatar

Thank you, Kevin, for your response. You’re absolutely right—caregivers often experience intense guilt when stepping away, even briefly, from their responsibilities. Embracing this balance can be challenging, yet it’s essential for long-term support.

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Chris's avatar

Sending this to my son. You know why. It’s such an excellent conversation to have with him and this is perfect to start that talk with. Thank you.

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Jeannie Moloo's avatar

I'm so glad this resonated. It's meaningful to know it's helping start a conversation. Wishing you and your son a good talk—thank you for sharing this with me.

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Nancy Jainchill's avatar

This is such a critical and unattended issue. I'm so sorry your husband didn't make it and I hope you're doing ok. Or good enough, whatever that is.

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Jeannie Moloo's avatar

Thank you for your kind words and understanding, Nancy. It’s true—caregiving is often a path that doesn’t get enough light.

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Judy Fields's avatar

Thank you for sharing your experiences. On reflection you did an exceptional job as caregiver and parent. I so admire you.

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Jeannie Moloo's avatar

You are welcome, Judy. Thank you for reading and commenting. Hoping to bring more awareness (and hopefully research and support programs) to the challenges of caregiving, especially for those young in their earning years while raising children.

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Susan Corbin's avatar

Jeannie, thanks for highlighting the need for care that caregivers must have or suffer the consequences. It doesn't have to be that way. Your sharing your story is a great reminder of those consequences. Stories are our best teachers.

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Jeannie Moloo's avatar

Thank you for your comment, Susan. I so agree that sharing our stories is one of the best ways to bring attention to the challenges caregivers face. It isn't easy sometimes to open that door, but if it can inspire meaningful conversations around caregiver support it's worth every effort.

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Menopause Nutrition's avatar

Jeannie, the stress you must have felt! I get it about not wanting to lose your place, career wise. I definitely was out of it for the 3 years I spent overseeing my mom's care. The stress that caregivers go through is the gift that keeps on giving.

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Jeannie Moloo's avatar

Thank you so much for sharing that. It really is a unique and lasting kind of stress, isn’t it? Balancing caregiving with the desire to stay on track career-wise can be such a difficult line to walk.

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Menopause Nutrition's avatar

And I consider myself lucky. According to the stats I’ve read, many women take lower-paying jobs or work part time because they are cargivers, which reduces their retirement savings. More added stress.

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Jeannie Moloo's avatar

I'm glad to hear caring for your mom didn't impact your career standing or earnings. I'm sure there were many challenging times even still. This is an area that also needs more attention, especially for the young families where the earning potential can change dramatically and forever.

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