We acclimated to a new normal.
How have you found strength throughout the process of caregiving?
At the beginning of my caregiving experience, I had to give up so many hobbies and activities that brought me joy. I’ve worked to maintain an identity outside of caregiving. I took a job as a part-time travel agent. My work is flexible, so I can work using my cell phone while waiting at appointments. I receive both recognition and compensation from this career, which is so important to mental well being.
What work do you do as a caregiver advocate?
Along with another Dole Caregiver Fellow, Patti Katter, I host a monthly blog talk radio show through Hope for the Warriors. Our show is geared toward caregivers and we cover a range of topics—everything from self-care to sexual health, a topic which some find taboo.
What advice would you give to a new caregiver?
Let other people help you by giving specific examples of what they can do to support you. Other people can run errands, bring dinner, or cut your grass. You must be the one to open the door to ask for help.
Resources That Helped Me
Military Order of the Purple Heart
We live in a rural area, but we founded a local branch of the Military Order of the Purple Heart. My husband has regained a sense of purpose and it has been so good for him to be surrounded by other veterans.
Wounded Warriors Family Support
In 2009, the Wounded Warriors Family Support paid for our family vacation. It was the first trip we had taken as a family and it allowed my husband to be able to see that we could go out and be together. The organization also provided help around the house while I recovered from a spinal injury.
Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes
The Coalition to Support America’s Heroes sent us money before Christmas so that we could buy presents for our children. I don’t know what we would have done otherwise!
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My Story
Amanda cares for her husband, John. He was injured when an improvised explosive device (IED) hit his armed vehicle during his fourth and final deployment. The explosion resulted in a traumatic brain injury (TBI), headaches, cognitive issues, fatigue, seizures, and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
As a Dole Fellow, Amanda is committed to reducing the stigma attached to mental health issues.
