By Pat Van Dyke
Columnist, Canyon Lake Insider
On the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month, JoAnn Wickerath arrives on the campus of Canyon Lake Community with a three-inch binder filled with information ready to meet individuals who are seeking fellowship and support from others providing care for their aging loved ones.
Fifteen years ago, Canyon Lake resident Beryl Miller envisioned a local group that could help give emotional and educational support to those who daily care for their loved ones who suffer from illnesses such as dementia, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, or other aging diseases. Miller told Pastor Pete at Canyon Lake Community Church of her vision and the Care Connection support group was formed.
Within a short time, the support group grew to several members with Wickerath also taking a leadership role. During these past years, the leader of the group has changed with the “going home” of Miller, but Wickerath has always been there to lead and encourage those seeking support as their roles change.
The meetings can vary from a time of fellowship, open discussion concerning the difficulty of filling the caregiving role, or special speakers regarding issues that caregivers face daily. Caregivers are encouraged through the support that they receive from one another.
Members of the present Care Connection support group have shared what tremendous help and comfort that they have received each time that they have met. One member shared that she discovered that “I am not alone. I know that there are others who are walking my same path.” Another shares that Care Connection is “a safe and loving place to share our experiences and struggles.” One of the characteristics that the members share is that “While patience is difficult to maintain, I realize that I’m not the only one looking for help in that same area.”
The comment that members repeated time after time was that Care Connection is a “safe and loving place to share our experiences and struggles.”
Care Connection meets in Building C, Rm. 11 on the campus of Canyon Lake Community Church every 2nd and 4th Monday from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. New members are always welcomed and encouraged to take part in this opportunity to seek information and support while caring for a loved one.
