Episodes

  • Alzheimer's Care From the Heart: A Caregiver's Candid Perspective

    Alzheimer's Care From the Heart: A Caregiver's Candid Perspective
    Feb 4 2025

    In this episode, we welcome Sheralin Samuels, a dedicated caregiver and medical professional, who shares her personal journey of caring for her mother diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's disease. Sheralin's story highlights the challenges of recognizing the disease at a young age and the profound impact it has on families.

    • She reflects on how she and even some physicians were initially in denial about the possibility of Alzheimer's at such a young age—her mother was just 48 when symptoms began.
    • Sheralin shares the difficulties in getting a diagnosis, as many healthcare professionals were hesitant to consider Alzheimer's due to her mother's age.
    • She talks about the emotional struggle of coming to terms with the diagnosis and how it affected her family's dynamics.
    • Sheralin shares valuable insights and advice for others who may be facing similar challenges, emphasizing the importance of early recognition and seeking support.
    • She concludes by highlighting the resilience and love that have sustained her family throughout this journey.

    Sheralin has a YouTube channel dedicated to helping others understand early-onset Alzheimer's.

    Connect with Harbor Hospice & Beacon Hospice:

    • Follow Harbor Hospice on Facebook. Follow Beacon Hospice on Facebook.
    • For more information about Harbor Hospice, please visit harborhospice.com
    • For more information about Beacon Hospice, please visit beacon.life
    • For more information about HarborCare & BeaconCare Palliative Services, please visit myharborcare.com
    • Please send your questions or comments to the podcast host at jfenter@harborhcs.com.
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    27 mins
  • Our Exceptional Hospice Professionals Share Their Insights and Perspectives

    Our Exceptional Hospice Professionals Share Their Insights and Perspectives
    Jan 21 2025

    In this episode, we speak with two exceptional Harbor Hospice and Beacon Hospice professionals who have been recognized for excellence in their field:

    • Hope Nelson, office coordinator in Oakdale, Louisiana
    • Genevieve Himes, volunteer coordinator in Victoria, Texas

    Our guests share their personal journeys into hospice care and offer valuable insights for those considering a career in this meaningful field. Topics discussed include:

    • What drew them to work in hospice
    • Memorable experiences that have shaped their work
    • Challenges and rewards of the job
    • Advice for those interested in pursuing hospice as a career

    Whether you're a healthcare professional exploring new career paths or simply curious about the world of hospice, this episode provides an illuminating look at this vital area of healthcare from two of its most dedicated practitioners. For more information about careers at Harbor Hospice and Beacon Hospice, please visit the following link: Harbor Hospice Careers

    Connect with Harbor Hospice & Beacon Hospice:

    • Follow Harbor Hospice on Facebook. Follow Beacon Hospice on Facebook.
    • For more information about Harbor Hospice, please visit harborhospice.com
    • For more information about Beacon Hospice, please visit beacon.life
    • For more information about HarborCare & BeaconCare Palliative Services, please visit myharborcare.com
    • Please send your questions or comments to the podcast host at jfenter@harborhcs.com.
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    21 mins
  • How to Navigate Feelings of Guilt and Regret in Grief

    How to Navigate Feelings of Guilt and Regret in Grief
    Jan 7 2025

    In this episode, grief specialist Gary Roe discusses how survivors can manage feelings of guilt after the death of a loved one. Roe explores the difference between guilt and regret and offers methods for finding forgiveness and reducing emotional baggage.

    Guilt vs. Regret

    Roe explains that while often used interchangeably, guilt and regret are distinct emotions:

    - Guilt is the feeling we experience when we knowingly do something wrong, usually related to ethical, moral, or legal reasons.
    - Regret is the emotion we feel when looking back on past actions, realizing we could have handled situations differently.

    Strategies for Managing Guilt and Regret

    Roe shares several strategies for managing these difficult emotions:

    1. Release these feelings through talking, writing, or creative expression

    2. Seek support: Talk to someone who listens well and loves you[3].

    3. Practice self-compassion: Remember that you're doing the best you can with the information you had at the time.

    Reducing Emotional Baggage

    To lighten the load of guilt and regret, Roe suggests:

    - Accepting that you can't change the past: Focus on what you can control in the present.
    - Practicing forgiveness: Both for yourself and others involved in the situation.
    - Honoring the deceased: Find ways to celebrate their memory and continue their legacy.
    - Seeking professional help: If guilt or regret persist, consider talking to a grief counselor or therapist.

    You can visit Gary's website for free resources and contact information at www.garyroe.com.

    Connect with Harbor Hospice & Beacon Hospice:

    • Follow Harbor Hospice on Facebook. Follow Beacon Hospice on Facebook.
    • For more information about Harbor Hospice, please visit harborhospice.com
    • For more information about Beacon Hospice, please visit beacon.life
    • For more information about HarborCare & BeaconCare Palliative Services, please visit myharborcare.com
    • Please send your questions or comments to the podcast host at jfenter@harborhcs.com.
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    22 mins
  • The Enormous Effect of Grief on Personal Relationships

    The Enormous Effect of Grief on Personal Relationships
    Dec 24 2024

    In this episode, we welcome grief specialist Gary Roe, author of several books on grief, to discuss how loss impacts relationships. Gary shares insights from his extensive experience and personal journey with grief. This episode offers valuable insights for those navigating grief and its effects on past, present, and future relationships. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the grieving process and learn strategies for maintaining and rebuilding connections during difficult times.

    The Impact of Grief on Relationships

    --Grief profoundly affects relationships in various ways:

    - Changes in relationship dynamics: Grief can alter the nature of connections with friends, family, and partners.
    - Communication challenges: The overwhelming emotions of grief can make it difficult to express feelings and thoughts.
    - Emotional rollercoaster: Grieving individuals may experience a range of emotions, including anger, which can strain relationships.

    --The Five Stages of Grief and Their Effects on Relationships

    1. Denial: This initial stage can lead to disbelief and numbness, potentially causing withdrawal from loved ones.

    2. Anger: Grieving individuals may lash out at those closest to them, creating conflict and misunderstandings.

    3. Bargaining: This stage might involve attempts to restore or rebuild relationships, which can be challenging.

    4. Depression: Isolation and loneliness may occur, impacting social connections.

    5. Acceptance: Gradually, individuals come to terms with their loss and may be ready to open up to new experiences and relationships.

    For more information, visit GaryRoe.com.

    Connect with Harbor Hospice & Beacon Hospice:

    • Follow Harbor Hospice on Facebook. Follow Beacon Hospice on Facebook.
    • For more information about Harbor Hospice, please visit harborhospice.com
    • For more information about Beacon Hospice, please visit beacon.life
    • For more information about HarborCare & BeaconCare Palliative Services, please visit myharborcare.com
    • Please send your questions or comments to the podcast host at jfenter@harborhcs.com.

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    23 mins
  • Timely Tips on Ways to Manage Grief at the Holidays

    Timely Tips on Ways to Manage Grief at the Holidays
    Dec 10 2024
    In this podcast episode featuring grief specialist Gary Roe, the discussion centers on managing grief during the holidays, a time often marked by intensified emotions for those experiencing loss. Here are the key points covered in the episode: Why Grief Intensifies During the Holidays Emotional Triggers: The holidays can amplify feelings of grief due to memories associated with loved ones who have passed. Traditions that once brought joy may now serve as painful reminders of absence.Isolation: Many people feel alone in their grief during this time, leading to feelings of sadness and disconnection from others who may not understand their experience. Challenges of Grieving During the Holidays Expectations vs. Reality: Society often promotes a cheerful holiday spirit, which can clash with an individual's personal experience of grief, creating additional pressure.Coping Mechanisms: Some individuals may resort to unhealthy coping strategies, such as overeating or withdrawing from social interactions, as they navigate their pain. Strategies for Managing Grief Acknowledge and Process: Gary emphasizes the importance of acknowledging one’s feelings rather than suppressing them. He introduces the acronym A.I.R.: Acknowledge what you are feeling.Identify how those feelings affect you.Release those feelings through expression—be it talking, writing, or creating art. Seek Support: Engaging with loved ones who can listen and provide comfort is crucial. Sharing experiences can help alleviate feelings of isolation.Personalize Your Grief Journey: Recognize that everyone grieves differently. It’s essential to find what works best for you, whether that’s honoring memories in a new way or creating new traditions. Conclusion Gary Roe's insights remind listeners that grief is a personal journey without a set timeline. He encourages individuals to embrace their feelings and seek support as they navigate through the complexities of loss, especially during emotionally charged times like the holidays. For more resources and support from Gary Roe, visit his website at GaryRoe.com. Connect with Harbor Hospice & Beacon Hospice: Follow Harbor Hospice on Facebook. Follow Beacon Hospice on Facebook.For more information about Harbor Hospice, please visit harborhospice.comFor more information about Beacon Hospice, please visit beacon.lifeFor more information about HarborCare & BeaconCare Palliative Services, please visit myharborcare.comPlease send your questions or comments to the podcast host at jfenter@harborhcs.com.
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    24 mins
  • Our Exceptional Hospice Professionals Share Their Insight and Perspectives, Part 3

    Our Exceptional Hospice Professionals Share Their Insight and Perspectives, Part 3
    Nov 26 2024

    In this episode, we speak with two exceptional Harbor Hospice and Beacon Hospice professionals who have been recognized for excellence in their field:

    • Dina Stepan, receptionist
    • Carey Davis, social worker

    Our guests share their personal journeys into hospice care and offer valuable insights for those considering a career in this meaningful field. Topics discussed include:

    • What drew them to work in hospice
    • Memorable experiences that have shaped their work
    • Challenges and rewards of the job
    • Advice for those interested in pursuing hospice as a career

    Whether you're a healthcare professional exploring new career paths or simply curious about the world of hospice, this episode provides an illuminating look at this vital area of healthcare from two of its most dedicated practitioners.

    Connect with Harbor Hospice & Beacon Hospice:

    • Follow Harbor Hospice on Facebook. Follow Beacon Hospice on Facebook.
    • For more information about Harbor Hospice, please visit harborhospice.com
    • For more information about Beacon Hospice, please visit beacon.life
    • For more information about HarborCare & BeaconCare Palliative Services, please visit myharborcare.com
    • Please send your questions or comments to the podcast host at jfenter@harborhcs.com.
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    17 mins
  • How to Cope With Grief During the Holidays

    How to Cope With Grief During the Holidays
    Nov 12 2024

    As the holiday season approaches, many individuals find themselves grappling with grief and sadness rather than experiencing the traditional joy and cheer. The holidays, typically a time for family gatherings, can feel particularly heavy when a significant family member is no longer present. In this replay episode, Polly Stock, the Bereavement Coordinator at Harbor Hospice of Missouri, offers valuable insights on navigating grief during this challenging time of year.

    In this episode, Polly shares some of her favorite resources, including the following books that you can find by following the links below.

    • Healing Your Holiday Grief by Alan Wolfelt
    • Surviving the Holidays Without You by Gary Roe
    • The Empty Chair by Robert DeVries

    Connect with Harbor Hospice & Beacon Hospice:

    • Follow Harbor Hospice on Facebook. Follow Beacon Hospice on Facebook.
    • For more information about Harbor Hospice, please visit harborhospice.com
    • For more information about Beacon Hospice, please visit beacon.life
    • For more information about HarborCare & BeaconCare Palliative Services, please visit myharborcare.com
    • Please send your questions or comments to the podcast host at jfenter@harborhcs.com.
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    18 mins
  • Susanne White Offers Timely, Helpful Support to Tired Caregivers

    Susanne White Offers Timely, Helpful Support to Tired Caregivers
    Oct 29 2024

    In this episode, host Jerry Fenter interviews Susanne White, founder of Caregiver Warrior. As a family caregiver with personal experience, Susanne has created an organization dedicated to supporting the family caregiver. Tune in for invaluable insights and encouragement for caregivers everywhere!

    Episode Highlights:
    • Inspiration for Caregiver Warrior: Susanne shares her personal journey as a caregiver for her parents and the motivation behind starting the organization.
    • Resources for Caregivers: An overview of the helpful tools and support available on the Caregiver Warrior website.
    • Meaning of "Caregiver Warrior": The significance of the name, honoring her father's service as a bombadier pilot in World War II.
    • Discussion of "Self-Care for Caregivers": Insights from her book, emphasizing the importance of self-care amidst caregiving responsibilities.

    You can find the resources of Caregiver Warrior on their website. Susanne and her "weapon of the day" for caregivers on X (Twitter) can be found here. You can connect with Susanne on LinkedIn here. To purchase her book on Amazon or buy it on Audible you can go to Amazon here.

    Connect with Harbor Hospice & Beacon Hospice:

    • Follow Harbor Hospice on Facebook. Follow Beacon Hospice on Facebook.
    • For more information about Harbor Hospice, please visit harborhospice.com
    • For more information about Beacon Hospice, please visit beacon.life
    • For more information about HarborCare & BeaconCare Palliative Services, please visit myharborcare.com
    • Please send your questions or comments to the podcast host at jfenter@harborhcs.com.
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    19 mins