Coping with chronic heart ache ~

[A-Jay]

Given the current state of affairs regarding Lynn's decline in health

and the outlook that accompanies that,

last week I applied for the Veteran Administrations Program of Comprehensive Assistance

for Family Caregivers (PCAFC).

It was a tough decision for me.

Admittedly the reality of it is hard to put into words.

Very thankful that the VA does recognize the important role of family caregivers

in supporting the health and wellness of Veterans.

So far the folks we've been in contact with have made the process

fairly painless, and that is most definitely a relative term.

There are several steps along the way to where 'eligibility' is determined.

So far we are about half way through.

I am looking forward to the support and the training they offer

as well as knowing that I can be the best version of me for Lynn in these trying times.

Stay Healthy & Safe.

A-Jay

 

 

[DaubsNU1]

@A-Jay 

[12poundbass]

I’m not familiar with this program. It isn’t what I think it is, is it?

[A-Jay]

  On 3/12/2025 at 8:20 PM, 12poundbass said:

I’m not familiar with this program. It isn’t what I think it is, is it?

Expand  

Not sure.

This is where I started at.

https://www.caregiver.va.gov/support/support_benefits.asp

 

A-Jay

[Bankbeater]

Keep up the good fight and our prayers are with you.

[12poundbass]

I was referring to hospice. From the link you provided that doesn’t appear to be the case which is a relief. 
 

Stay strong you two!

[A-Jay]

  On 3/12/2025 at 8:35 PM, 12poundbass said:

I was referring to hospice. From the link you provided that doesn’t appear to be the case which is a relief. Stay strong you two!

Expand  

No Sir, not that.

This is a program that helps me support her.

As an eligible primary caregiver, I may receive:

Access to health care insurance through Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Mental health counseling.

(and we all know I need all of this I can get) 

Certain beneficiary travel benefits when traveling with the Veteran to appointments. 

At least 30 days of respite care per year, for the Veteran. 

Respite is short term relief for someone else to care for the Veteran

while I take a break.

A monthly stipend (paid directly to the caregiver.)

A-Jay

[GaryH]

As always Andy in our thoughts and prayers.

[MN Fisher]

It's a tough road you travel, my friend, and I can sympathize. Nora has been bed-bound for 2 years now, but the state provides payment for a PCA to come in and provide personal care to give me some breaks. We have a wonderful gal now who we've even become good friends with...and her 4 kids (ages 9-15) call us 'Nana' and 'Papa'.

 

Stay strong, give Lynn our love.

[A-Jay]

  On 3/12/2025 at 9:01 PM, MN Fisher said:

It's a tough road you travel, my friend, and I can sympathize. Nora has been bed-bound for 2 years now, but the state provides payment for a PCA to come in and provide personal care to give me some breaks. We have a wonderful gal now who we've even become good friends with...and her 4 kids (ages 9-15) call us 'Nana' and 'Papa'.

 

Stay strong, give Lynn our love.

Expand  

Thank you ~

Life's the ultimate challenge and I can only imagine what that's like for you both.

So glad to hear you're getting what sounds like effective & most welcome support.

This is how we both role my friend.

Remember when we took a day on the water for granted ?

Not any more. 

Be well Sir.

A-Jay

[T-Billy]

 I sure hope you get approved for this program. We love y'all. The prayers continue............

[Functional]

Thinking about you both man. Never feel like needing a break is failure. None of us are made of stone and packed with energizer batteries. Take what you need because it will only make you better for her overall. Something I had to watch my father learn the hard way over years of caring for my grandmother.

[A-Jay]

  22 hours ago, Functional said:

Thinking about you both man. Never feel like needing a break is failure. None of us are made of stone and packed with energizer batteries. Take what you need because it will only make you better for her overall. Something I had to watch my father learn the hard way over years of caring for my grandmother.

Expand  

Sage Advice my friend.

Thank You.

Sharing is caring.

Sounds sappy but it's true.

A-Jay