Melissa from California

My name is Melissa I cared for my grandfather up until a year ago he passed away of esophageal cancer last year. For two years I drove him to all his appointments chemo, radiation, dentist then he was put on hospice. I couldn't bear the thought of somebody else caring for him so took on the responsibility full time. He had a feeding tube so I had to feed him thru that. His health started to deteriorate and he could no longer bathe himself or go to the bathroom. There was a nurse that came once a week but just to check in on him although it wasn't easy it was very challenging and sometimes overwhelming. I was able to bond with my grandfather and get to know a lot of things I didn't already know. So I'm glad I decided to take care of him. The advice I would give to someone in the same situation is make sure to take time for yourself even if it's going to sit outside for 10 min just to get your mind right to get your thoughts together to yell or cry whatever helps you but you most. Definitely need to take that time for yourself.