Caregiving is hard! In this episode of Navigating Cancer TOGETHER, Talaya Dendy dedicates the show to caregivers and features Allison Breininger, founder of The Negative Space. Allison shares her journey as a caregiver for her husband diagnosed with Fanconi Anemia (FA), a rare genetic disease leading to multiple cancers. She discusses the underappreciated role of caregivers, the importance of acknowledging their efforts, and the support systems she established through her non-profit. The episode covers the emotional and logistical burdens caregivers face, offers practical advice, and highlights the significance of having accessible mental health resources.

✨Highlights from the show:

[01:58] Allison's Personal Caregiving Journey

[04:30] Challenges and Realities of Caregiving

[09:26] Impact of Cancer Diagnosis on Caregivers

[12:57] Mental Health and Support for Caregivers

[17:16] Basic Needs and Advice for New Caregivers

[23:57] The Guilt and Challenges of Caregiving

[26:49] The Media's Portrayal of Caregiving

[32:08] Practical Self-Care Tips for Caregivers

[37:06] What NOT to Say to Caregivers

[38:55] The Importance of Acknowledging Caregivers

[42:14] The Negative Space: Resources and Support

Reflection: As a caregiver, how did this episode make you feel? Did it resonate with your experiences as a caregiver?

If you are someone who has had a cancer diagnosis, how did it make you feel? Have you had a conversation with your caregiver?

📰 Blog: https://www.ontheotherside.life/caregiving-unmasked

👩Connect with Allison:

Website: https://www.thenegativespace.life

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/negspacelife/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Negative-Space/61553388981859/

Podcast: https://www.thenegativespace.life/podcast/

Podcast on IG: https://www.instagram.com/insicknesspodcast/

Resources:

CaregiverCon,https://www.caregivercon.com

IANA Care,https://ianacare.com

Other Episodes You'll Enjoy:

How to Be a Caregiver with No Regrets with Rayna Neises, https://podcast.ausha.co/navigatingcancertogether/how-to-be-a-caregiver-with-no-regrets-with-rayna-neises

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Get your FREE Guided Meditation: Calming Your Mind After a Cancer Diagnosis. https://www.ontheotherside.life/guidedmeditation

🦄About Me:

In 2011, I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma, out of the blue. I did not have any prior health concerns or issues. Fast forward, the dreaded cancer diagnosis opened my eyes, introduced me to my purpose, and led me to where I am today. 

As a Cancer Doula, I use my 13 years of experience with cancer to support and guide others diagnosed with cancer. Many people are not familiar with what a cancer doula is. Think of me as your personal guide and patient advocate. Schedule a 30-minute Meet and Greet call to confidentially share the challenges you are facing and learn more about how I can support you. bit.ly/OTOSCalmingEnergyMeetNGreet

Learn more about On the Other Side at https://www.ontheotherside.life/. Connect with me on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/talayadendy/), or sign up for my bi-weekly newsletter  (https://bit.ly/OTOSNewsletter) to get valuable information and resources that can help you navigate cancer. 

🙏🏼Thanks for joining us for this episode of Navigating Cancer TOGETHER!

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Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider.