Caring for the Caregiver Event

What a beautiful morning of encouragement, connection, and self-care! Our caregiver event began with a fresh continental breakfast including burritos from  Rita’s Burritos. Then we had time to simply sit, visit, and connect with other caregivers who understand the journey. Sometimes just being in a room with people who “get it” is good for the soul. Elaine Poker-Yount, Successful Aging Az covered various aspect  of mental health and reminded us mental health doesn’t mean you’re happy all the time. She also shared that each of us experiences stress differently and offered practical self-care strategies along with helpful ways to navigate the well-meaning opinions that caregivers often receive. Sometimes changing just a few words can completely change a conversation and help others better understand your perspective and your journey.  Next, Joan Marlow, Peaceful Easy Healing, had everyone up and moving as she taught simple breath and movement techniques to help calm the nervous system, release stress, and renew both mind and body. Caregivers left with easy tools they can use anytime they begin to feel overwhelmed or are wide awake at 2am.  Monika Lukasiewicz shared the incredible power of gratitude and how choosing gratitude transformed her own story. Her heartfelt message reminded us that even during life’s hardest seasons, gratitude can become a source of strength, hope, and healing. Every attendee received a special mug as a reminder of an important truth: You can’t pour from an empty cup. Caring for yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential. The pampering continued as Dr. Peter R. Sutton and team from Abundant Health Chiropractic generously provided relaxing chair massages, while guests also enjoyed soothing hand massages. It was a wonderful opportunity for caregivers to pause, breathe, and allow someone else to care for them for a change. Guests also enjoyed painting terra-cotta flower pots and taking home a cheerful flower—a simple reminder that even in seasons of caregiving, we all need moments that nurture joy and creativity. One of the most heartwarming parts of the morning was offering respite care for some of our caregivers’ loved ones. We are incredibly grateful for The Next Chapter for providing this amazing service! While caregivers enjoyed a few hours of renewal, their loved ones had a wonderful time as well, giving everyone a chance to recharge. A heartfelt thank you to our incredible speakers, volunteers, sponsors, and everyone who helped make this event possible. Most of all, thank you to the caregivers who joined us. Your love, sacrifice, and compassion inspire us every day, and we hope you left feeling seen, supported, encouraged, and reminded that your well-being matters too. ❤️ Thank you to our sponsors: Amada Senior Care, Home Instead, and Humana