Wow, another excellent column, my friend, @colleensteele! I like the analogy of Mary Poppins, and thanks, now I am singing that song, LOL.
This is an impressive piece that shares that everyone, including caregivers, is imperfect. I think that sharing this knowledge and will help other caregivers learn this early on.
Acknowledging this fact is important. Caregiving is a tough job, and as you mention, often keep their care and health at the bottom of an insurmountable list.
When caregiving for a loved one, you make some excellent tips. Asking for help is difficult but needed to help prevent caregiver burnout.
As a caregiver myself before PH, I can attest to many of your comments. There is often that challenge of trying to be that perfect caregiver. But in reality, that is not possible. Trying to be perfect is setting ourselves up for failure and comes with much more added pressure.
You are an amazing caregiver to all, and I know that on those toughest days, tears come flowing in private places. I have found that most often in the shower or at times on the phone with close friends and family members who I trust.
Communicating with other caregivers and sharing those trial and error tips are helpful. This is why this forum is such an awesome place to come and share these experiences and thoughts.
Thank you, @colleensteele, for sharing your experiences and your vulnerability. So many others can learn and relate to this piece.