Stories from Caregivers: Amy from PENNSYLVANIA

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Amy

FROM PENNSYLVANIA

I was a caregiver back in 2010 and had been laid off when I received a call from my sister asking if I could possibly come and take care of my estranged step father Jim who was ill. Of course I said yes since I really hadn't seen him in years. I was under the impression he had the flu or something. Turns out he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and had only months to live. I was his caregiver, dispersed medication when needed for pain. He refused any chemotherapy. Hospice came once a week to check on us. I got to bond with my stepdad for three months and cherish those last few months with him. It was like we had been in touch for years. I am currently a full time caregiver in a group home and I have a retired aunt that lives with me also.

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