When Minty Swanson agreed to join me on the podcast, I knew her story would resonate with anyone who has ever loved deeply and fought fiercely. Minty bravely opens up about her role as a caregiver for her husband, Chris, weaving through the complexities of multiple Cancer diagnoses during the isolating times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her narrative is a testament to the resilience and humor that can spring from the heaviest of hearts, providing a beacon for those navigating the rough seas of terminal illness within their own families.

Our conversation takes us into the heart of Caregiving Grief, a type of mourning that begins far before a final goodbye. Together, we uncover the small, cumulative losses that quietly stack up, from the missed bike rides and date nights to the shifting dynamics of a partnership in the shadow of illness. Minty shares how the brain's defense mechanisms kick in, and we ponder the spiritual solace that can arise in the mist of nature or the sanctuary of faith. With a course on the horizon to support those in the caregiving trenches, our discussion offers a roadmap to acknowledging grief as the first step on the path to healing.

In what becomes a soul-stirring reminder, Minty and I explore the vital importance of self-care amidst the demands of caregiving. She shares how she anchors herself in the present, finding joy in life's simpler moments and the creative outlet of mixed media art. In prioritizing her own well-being, Minty offers a blueprint for caregivers to maintain balance and lean into the steady embrace of faith. This episode is more than a conversation—it's an affirmation of the strength found in love, hope, and the shared bond of those who answer the call to care for others.

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Rayna Neises A Season of Caring

Rayna Neises understands the joys and challenges that come from a season of caring. She helped care for both of her parents during their separate battles with Alzheimer’s over a thirty-year span. She is able to look back on those days now with no regrets – and she wishes the same for everyone caring for aging parents.

Rayna is the author of No Regrets: Hope for Your Caregiving Season, an ICF certified coach, the host of “A Season of Caring” podcast, Positive Approach® to Care (PAC)Independent Certified Trainer and speaker who is passionate about offering encouragement, support, and resources for regret-free caring aimed at preventing family caregivers from aimlessly wandering through this important season of life.

Rayna lives on a farm in southeast Kansas with her husband, Ron, and small pack of adorable dogs. She is the baby of her family, but most would never guess that. She is a former teacher who enjoys crafts of all kinds and spending time with her grandkids most of all.