14 Comments
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Jean Tracy's avatar

Such good advice, Denise. I sensed you were caretaking, and I know it takes a toll. You are a champion. You've shared so much over the years. I don't expect a brand-new idea, just some of your best tips from the past. I appreciate you.

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Kim Doyal's avatar

What a challenging week, Denise.

Sending you hugs & lots of love. Safe travels back home. xo

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Denise Wakeman's avatar

thank you Kim. Made it home safe and sound today.

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Kim Doyal's avatar

You’re welcome, hope you get some rest this weekend.

Next time you’re up (and it’s not as stressful), I’ll come to you if you have time for lunch.

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Isabelle Lesschaeve's avatar

Thanks for the great tips. Self-care is my 2025 word, and I welcome your reminder. Sending you positive vibes.

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Denise Wakeman's avatar

We all need reminders, don't we? Thanks, Isabelle.

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Iris van Ooyen's avatar

So sorry to hear this, Denise! Hope your mom will get out of the hospital soon. And thanks so much for sharing my article :)

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Yael Reinhardt-Matsliah's avatar

First, can I move into your deck :) ? Absolutely gorgeous. I'm so with you in this journey, as I've been on a caretaking journey now for 4 years with my now 87 year old mom. It takes a lot of grit and compassion to navigate so I really appreciate your reminder that content and engagement really can wait! That taking care of ourselves really does need to be front and center. Thanks for the reminder that it really is okay to self-care ❤️

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Denise Wakeman's avatar

Thanks for you kind words Yael. The deck belongs to my sister. I drive up from L.A. to spend time with my mom, and the view from the deck is a peaceful refuge. I wish you the best in your journey with you mom. Take care of yourself!

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Elizabeth H. Cottrell's avatar

Wow, Denise, what a beautiful and powerful way to share your own hard-won wisdom. What I especially appreciated about this post is that you didn’t stop by just telling us to take care of ourselves. Goodness knows, we’ve all heard that before. But you provided specific, simple, actionable steps to take, and that made all the difference. Thank you.

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Denise Wakeman's avatar

Thank you Elizabeth! ❤️

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Tess Wittler's avatar

All the feels, Denise! xo

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Denise Wakeman's avatar

Thanks, Tess.

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Ruthanne Koyama's avatar

I feel your pain but from the other side of the issue. Being in my 80s I worry not about myself but my children. I am in constant search for how if (or when) I succumb to the disease I can, before it arrives prepare for it in my own way. My goal is to learn how to recognize the subtle symptoms and make plans before it takes over my life and theirs. That is why I write - while I still can on Substack and in my books. https://ruthannekoyama.substack.com/

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