Keynote/Session Excerpt

I have always been a caregiver…from the hamster my brother disowned, to caring for a parish, to the elderly living in a huge HUD complex, to developing and running a successful adult day center. But the greatest challenge for growth and knowledge came when I and my siblings assisted in the care of my mother and father.
During that time, I began to have a major catharsis. There I was in the adult day industry, care giving for all my guests and their families, giving guidance that I thought was pretty darn good…but my journey with my parents opened my mind, body and spirit to a new level of "assisting the caregiver." Out of frustrations I had with physicians and hospitals I wanted to empower other caregivers. When our family became so tired I wanted to offer caregivers respite. When I felt defeated I wanted to encourage and praise the caregivers I encountered to assure that they heard, “What a wonderful caregiver you are." I began to think more like a caregiver and less like a counselor and center director.
Millions and millions of people find themselves in the role of caregiver. And not one said, “Oh please, let me be a full time caregiver!”
I carefully selected who I would share my fears, joys, anger and disappointments with. My close friends who supported and affirmed me during this time offered opinions and suggestions only when asked. I began to use a phrase nearly every time I would discuss weekly events, “I’m not asking for an opinion or solution, I just need to vent.” And they respected that.
Personal care giving was a journey I never expected or wanted to take. But you see, the reality of it all was that sometimes life just gets in the way of life.
Here are some tips that I found helpful as a caregiver…

From: “My How Time Flies As I Get Older!”

Most Requested Presentations:

"Did You See What I Said?"

This communications and personality workshop will demonstrate that often within our normal (and I use the term loosely!) communications we hear and process what we perceive is being said rather than what is said. Through humor and laughter, see how to better communicate with those who share your personal and professional lives! It is far more fun!

“Laugh For The Health Of It!”

Ever met the person whom you have never seen laugh? I have…ugh! There are some who just take themselves too seriously! In this workshop we will share how to let the sawdust out of all those stuffed shirts in our lives. Warning: Be prepared to let your hair down and share in some humor aerobics!

"Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace is a Reality!"

Did you know that what you don't know about cultural differences and inclusion can get you into more trouble than you could ever imagine? Even the most seemingly innocent things can get you into trouble if you don't know that what you say or do can negatively affect people of different cultures. Fortunately, there is a relatively easy and painless way to prepare for even getting blind-sided. It may be difficult to avoid diversity land mines in the workplace, but you can be prepared to defuse them.

"Growing Your Business Dreams - Business Growth and  Development"

Mirror, mirror on the wall who's the most successful of us all? Here's a hint: the person who doesn't take him/herself too seriously! There are many factors that contribute to the success of any business. During our time together we will take a "seriously humorous" look at marketing, staffing and business. Have a business dream? We need to talk!

Other Requested Presentations:

• “All Stressed Up and Not a Bridge to be Found!” General – Dealing with everyday stress
• "Chiefs and Indians!" - Leadership and Change
• "I Have Been Diagnosed With P.M.A" Motivational - Developing a more Positive Mental Attitude
• "My How Time Flies As I Get Older!" - Aging Issues and Answers
• "Pick Your Battles!" - Managing Conflict
• "Take One for the Team" - Team Building
• "The Mythology of Time Management" - Time Management

Other Available Subjects/Topics

• Business/Marketing
• Family Dynamics - Dealing with mental and addiction issues
• Goal Setting
• Parenting
• Relationships
• Self-Esteem
• Sexuality/Gender Issues
• Strategic Planning