Stories from Caregivers: Angie from NEBRASKA
NE
Angie
FROM NEBRASKA
Hi, my name is Angie and my mother's name is Pauline. I have been a dental hygienist for 16 years and recently had to take a FMLA to take care of my mother. My mother has COPD and struggles with diabetes as well as a heart condition. She was diagnosed with COPD 2 1/2 years ago. At first she could still get around and pretty much take care of herself. Her COPD has gotten a lot worse and she is on oxygen. She is Stage 3. The medications she takes will never make her any better but hopefully they will keep her from getting worse. I am glad I have this opportunity to stay with my mother although it is extremely hard watching the person you love so much just wasting away. Caregiving is mentally and physically challenging. It has put a bad strain on our family. Although caregiving is so hard, you do have to take care of yourself first. I just pray that my mother gets better.
