1. From Personal Experience to Public Advocacy: Stories of Hope with Dr. George Ackerman Rayna Neises 20:22

Have you ever felt the weight of the world on your shoulders while caring for a loved one suffering from a debilitating disease? Dr. George Ackerman knows that feeling all too well. He opens his heart and shares his personal journey of caregiving for his late mother, Sharon, who battled both Parkinson's and dementia. His poignant narrative about the challenges he faced in ensuring proper medication and making the difficult decision to keep her at home is bound to resonate with many listeners.

Dr. Ackerman's dedication to raising awareness about Parkinson's disease is evident in his tireless work with the Together for Sharon. He also emphasizes the importance of movement for those living with Parkinson's, a simple yet crucial aspect that greatly impacts their quality of life. His family's trials and tribulations with his mother's dual diagnosis, as well as the support they received from the American Parkinson's Disease Association, offer a realistic look at what life is like for caregivers and their loved ones.

In the final segment of our conversation, George finds the strength to share uplifting stories and offer messages of hope and Resilience. Through his platform, Together for Sharon, and his advocacy work, he continues to inspire and support those who are navigating their own seasons of caregiving. Tune in to hear how Dr. George Ackerman's experiences serve as a beacon of light for others amidst the challenging world of caregiving.

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.