“Go ahead and anticipate that you need breaks. Jesus did that too and went up the mountain to seek out God our Father. And recognize that we need to do that too.”
Debra Davis & Kelly Johnson
Who is Debra Davis and Kelly Johnson?
Deb Kelsey-Davis: Deb, as a nurse, has cared for many people. Now she is caring for her aging parents, one of the most important and challenging roles of her lifetime.
Deb is a clinician and healthcare leader. She serves on the board of directors for the National Association of Catholic Nurses (NACN-USA) and the Illinois Catholic Health Association (ICHA). Her Lay Ministry Certification (Archdiocese of Chicago) provides 20+ years of ministry experience.
Deb holds a Masters degree in Health Services Administration from the University of St. Francis and Certificate in Geriatric Fundamentals from UC Davis. She is a Registered Nurse (RN), author, and speaker.
Kelly Johnson: Kelly is an accomplished Advertising executive who answered the calling to join her parish staff and take on on the role of leader of Adult Faith Formation.
She is an author and active member of the National Association of Catholic Family Ministry and the National Conference of Catechetical Leadership. Through the Archdiocese of Chicago and Diocese of Joliet’s Lay Leadership Institute, Kelly obtained her Lay Leadership certification.
What Christian Caregivers Should Know
In this episode, Debra Davis and Kelly Johnson talk about caregiving. They explain:
-Caregiving can be very difficult in the long run, what should new caregivers keep in mind when they experience this role for the first time?
-What are the 3 things they can spiritually do to strengthen their own faith?
-We cannot do it by ourselves, how can we draw that extra strength from Jesus?
-What last bit of advice can you give those who are struggling with caregiving right now and are at rock bottom, frustrated, tired and fed up.
Caregiving is a Journey
When I first looked for Christian material on caregiving, there was none. I accidentally stumbled into the role of caregiver. My mother had a fall and fractured her left wrist. While her recovery has been slow, I’m beginning to realize that there’s a reason we’re blessed with two hands. And that old age and injury don’t go well together.
Fast forward a few months and I’m frustrated and occasionally fatigued. This has gone on long enough, I tell myself. However, this is my cross. I must carry it. Over time, it’s become easier. I love how the authors explain how they came into caregiving. You’re just being a good wife or a daughter, until you learn you’re a caregiver.
So I wrote to their publisher and settled on a date to talk to them. There are plenty of caregivers out there. In doing this podcast, I hope we can encourage you and provide some help.
Deb and Kelly have some fantastic advice. They encourage breaks and setting boundaries. Bot of them, recommend getting help when you feel overwhelmed. Your friends, neighbors, and church. Even your doctor’s office. Let people know when you’re struggling.
You are Not Alone
Deb and Kelly have written a book on caregiving. For us Christians, we can draw strength from Jesus. This could be of immense help to you if you are a caregiver. They also have more resources on the website, Nourish. If you need help and resources, they have a large community that you can reach out to. I am so grateful that they decided to do this podcast having personally lived through the caregiving journey. It’s nice to know that there are people out there who understand and can help.
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