JOAN’S BLOG – MON/TUE, FEB.16/17, 2009 – THE CAREGIVER CRUISE

Just a little background information for those who are reading for the first time, and are not aware of the Caregiver Stress Management Cruises.

Patrick Toal is a geriatric social worker who owns a travel agency. He puts together two Caregiver cruises each year, the purpose of which is to give caregivers a chance to get away, relieve stress, and enjoy themselves. He provides workshops and support groups on board for those who would like to participate. When I advertise the cruises, I try to emphasize that these trips are for caregivers – if you are able to arrange respite care at home or in a facility for your loved one with AD – you get to cruise, eat, sleep, sightsee, attend support group meetings and seminars, or do absolutely nothing just for YOU.

Those of us caregivers from my support group did bring our husbands, as they are quite functional. Other caregivers brought along a relative or friend to help look after their loved one. And others came by themselves for some much needed "alone" time.

After all these months of “talking” to you, it was a thrill for me to meet Mary, her husband and daughter; Countrygirl; and Dee and her husband. I also met Jean, who won the cruise (Click here to read article). I met caregivers from all over the country who learned about these cruises from Patrick’s advertisements on the radio and in newspaper articles.  

Dr. Teena Cahill’s welcoming speech was dynamic and fun. She is a clinical psychologist, and was very generous in offering support and help to those who needed it.

My two social workers and Patrick facilitated support group meetings for those who wished to attend.

I thought (remember, you’re getting only my perspective here) my talk on communication went quite well.

Everyone went on different shore excursions. Patrick had arranged for a trolley tour of Key West for everyone, but since I took it last year, I opted out.

In Grand Cayman, Sid and I took an underwater tour on a submarine with windows. It’s the “dry” way of seeing fish instead of snorkeling. I like snorkeling better, but we were rushed for time. We also visited a butterfly farm, and the pictures Sid took came out much better than mine.

Sorry folks, but I wasn’t a “party animal” on this trip (not that I ever am), and after the live show in the theater, which was over around 10 PM, I was ready for bed.  One night, on the way to bed, I made a pit stop in the casino and lost $9. I hate gambling. I figure if I’m going to spend money, I want to have something to show for it – like a piece of jewelry. Another night, we found ourselves up on the pool deck, eating (AGAIN) from the fruit buffet. Which just happened to have chocolate chip cookies on it.  And the band was playing 60’s music. Loved it.

There was one incident of my “husband behaving badly” that marred my good time, but I’ll leave the details for another time. The situation was diffused within a few hours, and life went on.

Patrick plans the speakers, seminars, and support group meetings for these cruises. This was the first time members from my website took the trip, and I did not plan anything specifically for us. Mary made a good suggestion, which I will implement on the next cruise. I will plan a “meet and greet” session early in the cruise just for us. No formal talk, workshop, or support group. Just a “get acquainted” hour. With food.

I thank everyone who came. We had the pleasure of giving each other “real” hugs, not just “cyber” hugs. I hope many of you will consider the Alaskan cruise in September, which leaves from Seattle, Washington.

Below are a few pictures from me, Countrygirl, and Mary.

Joan and Mary

Joan and Dee

Dave, Mary, Countrygirl, and Jean

Joan and Countrygirl

Dave and Mary

Sheldon and Dee

Group Picture

CLICK HERE for Slide Show of Cruise Pictures.

Feedback to joan@thealzheimerspouse.com

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