Stories – Caregivers Alberta

Caregivers in Alberta have a complex set of needs, and they require support from people who understand them and believe in them. These stories from our clients are a testament to the dedication we all bring to improving conditions for caregivers in the province.

You don’t get it until you’ve lived it...
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Caregiving Testimonials

Jackie’s Story

The life of a caregiver is a challenging yet rewarding journey. Someone who is all too familiar with this is Jackie Katan from Edmonton, Alberta who cares for her husband, Darrell.

Chantel’s Story

At the age of 17, I suddenly lost my mother to leukemia. Being the eldest of four, I took on the role of a mother and a caregiver.

Noel’s Story

I am a mom who has experienced times of both hope and low hope, throughout my journey caring for my son who had severe brain damage and physical disabilities.

Caregiving Videos

Laurie

“There were nearly two patients in this scenario.” Laurie talks about the emotional journey when her son was diagnosed with Schizophrenia.

Bobbi

“We had stepped out of our life and into something brand new.” Bobbi shares her experience finding a new normal after her daughter has a catastrophic accident.

Tammy

“Did we see it would get this bad? No.” Tammy discuss the impacts of caregiving on her career and finances.

Lois

“Okay, what is she going to forget next?” Lois talks about caring for her mom with dementia.

Doris

“One day its fine and the next something chaotic is happening.” Doris shares her experience balancing work with caring for a parent with a mental illness.

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Meaningful words from some of Alberta's caregivers

The most important message I heard was that caregiving is an action and we need to act and do for ourselves. We need to Walk the Talk if we truly want results, but be gentle on ourselves, give it time, we are all human.

I am thankful for the excellent, compassionate work ACGA provides in our communities. You are an anomaly.

The ACGA provided me with support with a warm and safe welcome. I did not feel judged. I heard I mattered. I appreciated the stories in the group.

I don’t remember a time when I was not a caregiver.

Today, I care for my best friend of 31 years, the loving father of our incredible children and the man I married 23 years ago. He just received a diagnosis of epilepsy and requires ongoing emotional support.

I grew up with an alcoholic mother and drug addicted father who left when we were young. My older brother was in and out of institutions and abusive to both my younger sister and me. I was my sister’s protector and caregiver.