So, how did I get here?

My caregiving journey began in 2013, when my mother’s health declined due to cardiovascular disease. Over time, she faced unimaginable challenges, becoming a double-leg amputee. To keep track of the endless details — doctors, hospital visits, medications, wound care, mobility aids, home modifications, and support services — I created what I called my “black book.” It served as my health tracking organizer, helping me stay organized amidst chaos.

Supporting my Father through Cancer

Losing my mother in 2015 was devastating. But there was little time to grieve - almost immediately, my father was diagnosed with cancer and later, dementia.
So, I started another “black book” for my father, which became thicker than ever and filled with countless appointments: infusion, ER visits and hospital stays, consultations with Hematologists, Respirologists, and Cardiologists, as well as Occupational and Physiotherapists and Speech-language Pathologists. It also included MRIs, CT Scans, X-Rays, Blood Work, and layers of care from nurses and support workers. It was overwhelming, but I knew I had to keep going. I researched long-term care options: Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Long-term Care (through LHIN, now known as Ontario Health at Home).

The Reality of Dementia

Post pandemic and a return to office brought new challenges - my dad’s dementia had progressed dramatically, and his cancer was in remission. His personality changed, and I often found myself on the receiving end of angry outbursts, false accusations, and painful words. As his needs grew, I added home-care support and eventually transitioned him into assisted living.

Dementia falls outside of traditional healthcare, meaning families must often navigate services and supports on their own. It can force adult children — the “sandwich generation” — to step away from careers, draining both energy and finances. To put it simply, Caregiving is a full-time job!

I know this because I’ve experienced it. And I see you — the families facing it, too.

I See You, and I Am Advocating for You

I’ve spent more than 25 years in senior sales and marketing roles across private, public, and non-profit sectors. That career gave me organizational, leadership, and advocacy skills that I now channel into a new mission: educating and supporting those on the dementia care journey.

As a certified PAC™ Dementia Care Trainer, I teach professionals and families how to recognize what remains — the abilities, connections, and joys — instead of focusing only on what’s been lost.

This is what I have learned.

This journey has fueled my commitment to educate both professionals and family care partners. My goal is to equip them with the tools, resources, and perspective needed to support individuals living with cognitive decline truly. I focus on what remains — the abilities, emotions, and connections that remain — rather than solely on what has been lost.

My father lives with Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA), a type of Frontotemporal Dementia that affects his ability to speak, read, write, and comprehend. Even as these changes unfold, I treasure every moment with him- walking by the lake, sipping lattes at Tim Hortons, or driving with the music turned up. Even though he no longer remembers my name, I am still grateful to be his daughter and best friend.

Restoring My Own Balance

I’ve learned that sustaining brain health and well-being is essential. For me, that means kayaking, practicing Pilates and Foundation Training, reading both fiction and non-fiction, and spending time with my wide circle of friends — from age 20 to 100 — who inspire me with their wisdom and energy.

 Now, I want to use my journey — and my training — to support you on yours. You don’t have to face dementia alone.

My Certifications & Associations

• PAC® Certified Dementia Care Trainer – Snow Approach™ program

• GPA® Certified Educator – Dementia Care Responsive Behaviours (AGE)

• Certified Program Director – Dementia Care Programs and Activities

• Member – Rare Dementia Support Canada

• Member – Ontario Caregiver Coalition