“My husband John and I have been married since the “turn of the century” – 27 years – and have been blessed with a daughter, Patience (23) and son, Graham (16). In recent years we have faced the challenge of our lifetimes: John’s decline into the neurological changes that come with Parkinson’s and Lewy Body dementia. As a social w orker who spends my days supporting others through their hardships, I find myself often feeling scared, isolated and exhausted by the “what ifs” and responsibilities of caregiving – and praying for help but not sure how to get it. Westwood UMC’s Care Givers group has been a godsend.

The Care Givers group meets twice a month over Zoom. There are a variety of care givers in attendance, with different types of situations and needs. We discuss our challenges, share our joys and gratitude, and engage in self-care such as guided meditation. A smaller subset of us who are caring for spouses with similar conditions have been able to connect outside of group, providing support and encouragement throughout the week. A special shout out to friends from the former Moms and Culver City small groups who have also been there through it all. Thanks to this church community, we feel less alone as we face this uncertain journey.”
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To request care or submit a prayer request, click here. Questions? Contact Pastor Diana at diana@westwoodumc.org.