|
| Caring for the Caregiver One morning eight years ago, Jim Fraser, a former Marine and small business owner from Prior Lake, woke up paralyzed, completely debilitated by a severe stroke. Despite months of rehabilitation in the hospital, Jim never recovered his mobility or ability to communicate beyond a few words. He couldn’t work and needed care 24 hours a day.
Jim’s wife of 31 years, Mary Jo, became his full-time caregiver. She rarely leaves his side.
She enlisted the help of Catholic Charities’ Aging Services to help her handle her new responsibilities. Aging Services helps older adults stay in their homes as long as safely possible and supports caregivers in their selfless care of a loved one.
“Catholic Charities has been wonderful,” Mary Jo says. “They’ve always been so good to Jim. I’m not ready to let go and let someone else take care of him. That’s where Catholic Charities allows me to care for him at home.”
Twice a week for four hours at a time, Aging Services volunteers visit Jim, giving Mary Jo a few hours to run errands or visit her family. The volunteers read to Jim, play cribbage or watch the boats on the lake.
“Four hours to somebody isn’t a lot,” Mary Jo says. “But when that’s all you have away, that four hours means a lot.”Learn more about Aging Services.Become a volunteer with Catholic Charities.Donate to support caregivers and older adults.
|
