How to Thrive on a Cruel Journey…A Ghost Ride on a Darkened Road…Tears of Thanks…

How to Thrive on a Cruel Journey…A Ghost Ride on a Darkened Road…Tears of Thanks…

Recently, I spoke to an audience in Charlton, Massachusetts on “How to Survive and Even Thrive with a Loved One with Alzheimer’s”. First off, Charlton is definitely “out there,” a rural community dotted with farms, wide acreage, rolling hills. My talk was scheduled for 6:00 PM. I was accompanied by a former student, Amanda DiLeone…

Using Humor in My Caregiver “Lessons” …
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Using Humor in My Caregiver “Lessons” …

My life is ever-evolving. At almost 80 years old, I’m a comedian. That’s right…I make audiences laugh. Right through the tough topic I’m talking about—Alzheimer’s—the disease that’s been the uninvited guest in my husband’s and my life for the past 15+ years. Here’s how my speaking goes…. Following the event host’s intro, I gingerly go…

Hitting My Stride as Caregiver to Caregivers

It’ll be my first really big speaking venue. Masonicare, a 245 unit senior living community in that lovely seaside town of Mystic, Connecticut, has commissioned me to speak before their residents who range from independent living, to assisted living and memory care. How’d they hear about the woman (me) who tells how to survive and…

Her “Talks” Are So-o Important

ProJo Columnist and Long-Time Caregiver Gives Inspiring Talks: “Many Have Called Theirs ‘A Love Story:‘ “ Colleen Kelly Mellor was sole Caregiver to her husband, diagnosed with Alzheimer’s for 13+ years, but when she knew she could no longer do his 24/7 care, she sought out a residential place for him with which he–and she–could…

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What Are the Odds….…Of All Four People Being Affected by My Experience?

I needed my hair done for a major book presentation and sought my long time hair stylist who’s seen me through many events (weddings, etc.) Problem? Donna Simonelli (her photo’s on the right) would be on vacation in Costa Rica. So, she offered her friend/stylist Christine Corio DiBenedetto, whom I also knew, to stand in…