Hello, and welcome to this special episode, a milestone, the 200th installment of the Caregiver Cup Podcast. I'm thrilled to share this journey with you and delve into the essence of our caregiving community.

Our story began in October 2020 as The Caregiver Wife Podcast, a personal endeavor to share the lessons learned while navigating the challenging terrain of caregiving. What started as a coping mechanism evolved into a passion project—more than just filling your cup; it's about empowerment, becoming your best self, and discovering strategies to enhance this caregiver life.

Let's take a moment to reflect on our evolution. We've been recognized, ranking 34th in FeedSpot's 80 Best Caregiver Podcasts and in the top 10% globally according to Listen Score. With 182 solo episodes and 18 guests, including spouses, siblings, authors, health professionals, activists, and working women, the podcast has become a diverse tapestry of experiences.

 Thank you for the reviews, emails, and connections. Your caregiver stories warm my heart—challenges, victories, determination, and courage. Your feedback is a ray of sunshine, reminding me of the impact our community has.

The podcast has evolved, and so have we. A couple of heartfelt reviews emphasize the podcast's impact, proving that it's not just a listening experience but a source of inspiration and support.

 Now, let's address some listener questions. Sarah, your struggle is acknowledged. Recognizing burnout is a significant step. Transform your mindset by asking why, find the root cause, and work on solutions. Small steps, like a weekly walk, can lead to significant changes.

Kaylee, your dual caregiving journey is commendable. Guilt is normal but retrain your brain. Acknowledge, find the root, and cope. Focus on the benefits of your decisions, prioritize self-care, and know you're doing your best.

Each caregiver's journey is unique. Don't compare years; focus on what works best for you....

It's a Bonus Episode!  It's My Birthday!

Hey There, It’s Cathy with a fun bonus episode of THE CAREGIVER WIFE PODCAST.   It’s my birthday.   What better way to celebrate my birthday than with you, my listener.  

My birthday parties of the past…..

I remember those pizza parties and slumber parties.   Everyone would come with their fun sleeping bags, pjs and little suitcase.  We would stay up all night sharing stories, putting on makeup, dancing to music and playing true or dare.  And, we would call boys on the telephone.   My parents would be just as exhausted as I would, since they heard screaming girls all night long.  

Then as I aged, my parents would let me pick out a favorite restaurant and they would take me out.  I would always pick a supper club.  I loved the salad bars, baked potatoes and a tenderloin steak.  Then I would order a grasshopper from the bar.   It was my alone time with my Mom and Dad.  

Those memories are so fun to think back on.  

As the years went on I had birthday dates with my husband, Denis.  Sometimes a casual dinner and sometimes a dinner and movie and sometimes a local theater.  

The last few years they were low key due to Denis’ chemo and knee surgery.   Then this year COVID really changed it up.  I am looking forward to a Zoom call or facetime.  

For this podcast and my birthday, I asked family and friends to share a 30 second clip.  I asked them to share something you, my listener didn’t know about me…   That’s risky but also some fun.  

So let’s hear from them now.  They recorded these in various ways so you will notice the audio will be different   ENJOY!

• Julie (friend)
• Denise (friend)
• Jan (mom)
• John (brother)
• Mark (son)
• Krystal (daughter-in-law)
• Jamie (son)
• Matthew (son)
• Denis (husband)

Hope you enjoyed a fun segment from my family and...