What It Really Takes to be a Hospice Caregiver

The Heart of Hospice Podcast

Christina Keys can tell you the realities of being a caregiver for someone with a serious illness - the good, the bad, and the ugly. As the sole caregiver for her mother following a catastrophic stroke, Christina experienced financial, emotional, mental, physical, and relational impacts. The relationship between the two women was complicated, following a history of childhood abuse.

When her mom needed end of life care, Christina was juggling a full-time job as well as all of her mom’s care. The caregiving needs became much more intense, often requiring two people. End of life conversations were frequent so Christina knew exactly what her mother’s wishes were. One specific request was a casket from Costco! The hospice care got off to a rough start at first, but Christina found an agency that was a better fit for her mom’s care. Knowing she would need the additional support, Christina also engaged an End of Life Doula. Christina has taken the memories of her caregiving experience and all the lessons she’s learned to support other caregivers.

You can connect with Christina and the services she provides at christinakeys.com.

Socials for Christina Keys: Facebook TikTok Instagram LinkedIn

Find more caregiving resources at caregiving.com.

Register for the Tree of Life Conference from the International Doula Life Movement here.

Want to know more about doulas, or connect with others who are doing death doula work? Visit internationaldoulalifemovement.com.

If you’re interested in becoming a certified death doula through IDLM, click here.

Access all the courses that IDLM provides here.

See all the events that IDLM is offering by clicking here.

Connect with IDLM on social media. Facebook IG YouTube

Hospice Navigation Services is here for you. If you have questions about hospice care or need to troubleshoot the care you’re already receiving, book a session with an expert Hospice Navigator at theheartofhospice.com.

Book podcast host Helen Bauer to speak at your event or conference by sending an email to [e-mail].