This is my personal blog where I will share my experiences as a caregiver, the experiences that my husband and I have shared as a couple since he returned from war with serious injuries, and the experiences that we have had with agencies as we’ve negotiated care for his personal and other needs.
Goodson Consultants, LLC © 2016. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site's author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Precious Goodson, EdD and A Military Caregiver's Journey blog with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
In several previous blogs, I addressed the fact that many wounded warrior families face considerable financial challenges, and I noted details about the Military Caregiver Financial Hotline, which can help guide you as you work toward financial health. This current blog continues the discussion of financial resources, with an introduction to another excellent online resource, Operation We Are Here, which provides a wealth of information…
Hi All, At the start of this year I set many goals for myself. Some of these goals included a focus on self-care, to increase exercise and to lose weight. At that time I challenged the military caregiver community to set a few realistic goals too. Today, I reflect back on those goals to see what progress was made. You can read about set goals and…
We have a new addition to our home – Harry, a service dog to Lenny, my husband. Early in my blog posts, I introduced my readers to Duncan, my husband’s first service dog. In post, I explained Duncan’s place in our family. Duncan always carried out his duties as a service dog very well. Duncan’s service dog duties included: Distracting my husband away from crowds,…
Remembering the Blessings of Today As we remember the many blessings on this Thanksgiving Day… I also think of those who are no longer here to celebrate this special day. Many loved ones left for war and never made it home. People and things come and go. As things change in my life, I must remember to maintain an attitude of gratitude. On this Thanksgiving Day…
Do you know why we celebrate Veterans Day? The U.S. Department of Defense explains the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Unlike Memorial Day when we honor those who died serving our country, Veterans Day is when we celebrate all who have served. Many military couples – including me – actually married on this special day (another interesting fact). So many military couples get to celebrate Veterans…
This blog will offer tips on how to prepare for natural disasters and steps to take afterward. Bradley Davis of Disaster Web has offered to write this article to readers. In light of the recent disasters, these practical tips may help you or your loved ones. Please share! No matter where you live, your environment is prone to natural disasters and bad weather. There’s no immunity…
On Friday May 25, neighbors installed white wooden crosses in the median of the main road through the neighborhood. Each cross has the name of a fallen soldier and is topped with an American flag. There are 28 crosses all together and they will remain in place throughout the holiday weekend. – J. Petrino, Resident. Newnan. Georgia On today, my husband and I strolled through…
It is in the midst of difficulties that self-care is more important than ever. It has been a very difficult time for me these past two months. And so, what happens when, in the midst of caring for your wounded veteran or service member, another curve ball is thrown your way? A loved one who has been a major support system dies? Or a very…
This blog is written by guest writer Beverly Nelson who gives self-care and wellness tips and suggestions to caregivers. When you’re caring for a war veteran, finding time to tend to your own needs can be a daunting challenge. This doesn’t get easier as time goes by. In fact, as you and your loved one age, you may find yourself approaching caregiver burnout instead of…
As promised, the following covers the last several self-care activities I mentioned in Part one of my Military Caregiver 2018 Self-Care Challenge. I’m hoping I can implement these successfully on a regular basis this year to help ensure my optimal physical, mental, and emotional/spiritual well-being. I also hope this overview will help serve as a guide to you as you start into the New Year—…