March 27, 2025

The Power of Friendship: Deb and Mark’s Caregiving Story

Caregiver Experience Caregiver Stories

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We extend our heartfelt thanks to Deb and Mark for their openness and willingness to share their experiences. We hope that by sharing their journey, others who find themselves in similar situations can find inspiration, support, and encouragement to build their own networks of care and connection. 

When Deb and Mark met in 1972, they had no idea it would lead to a friendship of over 50 years, a meaningful companionship, and a beautiful caregiving journey. Deb has been Mark’s primary caregiver for 10 years. 

“I’m so grateful to have her. She doesn’t miss a beat. I don’t know what I would do without her; she’s the best,” Mark said. 

Before Deb became his caregiver, Mark was diagnosed with Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR), an inflammatory condition that causes pain and stiffness. He also has a pacemaker. Living in a second-floor apartment, Mark and his daughter knew he needed a better solution.  

“We decided that it would be great if he moved in [with me]. I did it without any thought of getting help or assistance. I didn’t like living alone; I was concerned about him and so was his daughter,” Deb said. 

The Power of Caregiving

Caregiving isn’t new to Deb. Before Mark moved in, she cared for her mother for 7 years, who had Alzheimer’s disease. Deb cares for her great grandson weekly, picks up her granddaughter from school, and helps her brother-in-law after a recent lung cancer diagnosis. For Deb, caregiving is what she does. 

While Mark has his own space downstairs in the home, Deb helps him with daily activities like preparing and administering his medications, bringing him meals, and doing his laundry. Deb uses a shared calendar to keep track of Mark’s appointments, which she reminds him of each week and attends with him. Because Mark can get around well with his cane, he enjoys going grocery shopping with Deb. 

“I can’t think of what she doesn’t do for me. She’ll tell me if I’m dressing wrong and makes sure I have a healthy diet. She makes sure I’m safe. I don’t know if she realizes how much she does for me,” Mark said. 

Finding Caregiving Support with Careforth 

“Before we found out about Careforth, I didn’t have any support at all except my family and friends—but they have their own lives. They’re very busy, and it was difficult to know where to go to get information,” Deb said. 

After hearing about Careforth through a friend, Deb and Mark began their journey receiving support, payment, and coaching in July 2020. They were also introduced to Sue, their Careforth nurse. 

“We are so lucky to have Sue. She’s personable and funny, but she also has so much good information for us,” Deb said. “I ask her for advice and she doesn’t cut me short on it, she’s always there and gives me the time. She stays as long as she needs to, and we never feel rushed.” 
 
Many caregivers struggle finding little moments to themselves so they can recharge. For primary caregivers, that can be a challenge depending on the level of care their loved one requires. Deb tries to find that balance each day by going for runs or taking walks. 

“Being a caregiver, your heart is so big, and you want to do so much for other people. But I also want to keep myself healthy. It’s not always easy, but if there’s anything I need, Careforth is there,” Deb said.

Sue is often a trusted sounding board for Deb—whether it’s questions she has about Mark or even personal advice on how she can be healthier. 

“It’s always rewarding when I can help make life better for them,” Sue said. 

Deb and Mark’s caregiving story is a testament to the strength of true friendship. Their shared experiences have deepened their bond and shown how life’s challenges can be turned into opportunities for growth and healing. In each act of care, Deb and Mark remind us that friendship nurtures, uplifts, and makes even the hardest paths a little easier to walk. 

Careforth Supports Family Caregivers 

At Careforth, we strive to provide the resources and connections that ensure caregivers feel supported at every turn in their caregiving journey. Visit the How We Help page on our site to learn more about how Careforth supports caregivers, or contact us for more information.