Judy’s Journey

“Caregiving is a role filled with desperate moments and overwhelming situations. The kindness and help that Acclaim Health provided is something I’ll long remember.” – Judy

Rick and Judy

Rick and Judy met at work in their fifties and were together for nearly 29 years.

Together, they shared a love for boating and exploring new places. Judy misses Rick’s 7 a.m. wakeup calls; he would leave little post-it notes on the mirror giving her clues to their weekend adventures. They enjoyed having fun with each other.

Rick always tried to make Judy feel good. His infectious humor kept her laughing, and his magnetic smile and twinkling eyes brought her joy. His love of cooking and finding wonderful places to eat out kept Judy out of the kitchen, which she didn’t mind.

They both loved to dance and have fun at boat club parties. Boating all over Lake Ontario was Rick’s number one love. Judy was happy that she sat in second place! When they were together, they truly felt like they belonged together. Judy adored Rick.

“It was extremely difficult to transition over those long ten years from being a partner to the love of my life, to caregiver for a changing person. But, I believe the bond was there until the end.” Judy shares.

Judy’s love, Rick, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s 10 years before he passed. Through their unique journey, they became familiar with many of the supports and services that Acclaim Health offers.

Adult Day Program

Judy’s journey started by attending a dementia education session and learning about the Adult Day Program (clubs). A dear friend shared his experience with Acclaim Health and spoke highly of their work, which made Judy feel she was in the right place.  “I connected with Sheryl at the Adult Day Program. Sheryl and the staff were so kind to everyone and exceptionally attentive to Rick, but also to me and my mental state,” explained Judy.

Initially, Rick was hesitant to go to the club, but after a period of adjustment, he really enjoyed the music, art activities and was having a good time.

While Rick was at the Adult Day Program, Judy was grateful for the times when she could sit in her car in a parking lot to read, go home and work on writing her books, or see a friend for coffee without all her senses being on high-alert. As a caregiver, these are the moments in life that are few and far between.

Caregiver Support

To help her manage the stress of caregiving, Judy was offered wellness care services by Ana. While Rick attended the day program, she benefitted from Therapeutic Touch sessions, which helped her relax and recharge. 

When Rick’s care at home began to be too much for Judy, they were supported by Rick’s PSW, Joule, who, in Judy’s words, “was an absolute gem. “Joule was perfect, and we got on so well… I didn’t feel like I had to go anywhere else to relax, just having her there was so refreshing.” Judy shares.

Towards the end of Rick’s life, Acclaim Health was right by their side to help them with services that they didn’t even know they needed. A very kind staff member, Joanne, visited Rick when he was in the hospital. Joanne continued the comfort and support, and had a huge impact during a very emotional time.  Most importantly, she met them where they were at, listening to their concerns and worries.

Bereavement Support

When Rick passed away, Judy felt loss in a way that she had never felt before. Her mind was in a fog for months.  She turned to the organization that had been there for her all along. Judy met with Carole, where she had a safe space to talk about her grief. ”Carole was wise and listened to me without judgement or distraction, which was exactly what I needed.”

Over time, Judy felt ready to discuss her thoughts and feelings with more people. She joined two of Acclaim Health’s bereavement support groups. Never did Judy feel pressured to speak. These support groups helped Judy heal, discover new ways to think about her relationship with Rick, and understand how others experience grief differently.

She made breakthroughs and found it wonderful to witness others do the same.