Hello, and welcome to our new Blog! <\/p>\n
My name is Jennifer Antkowiak (pronounced ant-CO-vee-ack) and I am thrilled to be here at Beliefnet.com to bring you tips you can use to erase the guilt, and find the time you need to take care of yourself<\/strong><\/em> while you’re caring for others.<\/p>\n Maybe you spend your days caring for a sick child. Maybe you’ve had to talk with your boss about leaving early to accompany your dad to a doctor’s appointment. Maybe your partner has just received a scary diagnosis. <\/p>\n Medical research shows that many of us care for others to the point that we start to neglect our own—even basic—needs. Caregivers are turning into patients <\/em><\/strong>as a result.<\/p>\n But wait! You have the power to stop that negative cycle. I’d be honored to hold your hand and help you to do just that. <\/p>\n I found out about the importance of self-care the hard way. I’ve juggled being a wife, mom of five, entrepreneur, author, and TV morning news anchor with being primary caregiver for my mother-in-law who died of cancer, and more recently for my father-in-law who lived with us and died of cancer this past summer. <\/p>\n During those life-changing experiences, I fell victim to the very common, very unhealthy caregiver lifestyle: getting only a few hours of sleep each night, not eating well, not getting any consistent physical activity…<\/p>\n It took it’s toll on my body and brain (whether I was ready to admit it or not). Now, I have a greater appreciation for the little things we can all do to bring about big positive changes in our lives. <\/p>\n Through my years anchoring TV news, I have the opportunity to interview experts, and gather information that I hope will bring some joy to your life. <\/p>\n I am looking to create a friendship with all of you. I’d love to hear your caregiving stories, and your questions regarding specific struggles. <\/p>\n I’m here to help! Please stay close! Here’s our preliminary posting schedule:<\/p>\n Monday – Hope: <\/strong>information you can use to maintain and create hope<\/p>\n Tuesday – Take Care Tip day <\/strong>– a 10 Minute Tip you can use to quickly and easily bring yourself strength<\/p>\n Wednesday – Caring Questions <\/strong>– a question you can ask your loved one to break through any awkward communication barrier and maximize your minutes together.<\/p>\n