A Son’s Dedication and the Impact of Personalized Care: Dexter’s Journey with Careforth

Our team would like to thank Dexter, Chanorman, and Careforth Care Manager Esther Wilson for their openness to sharing their story and caregiving journey. Our hope is that others who relate to them may find the encouragement to build support and connection in their own journey.

Becoming a family caregiver without formal training can be overwhelming and stressful. For Dexter, primary caregiver to his father, Chanorman, the transition was particularly challenging. Managing his father’s care brought numerous difficulties, but finding the support of Careforth’s Structured Family Caregiving program helped alleviate that stress. With Careforth’s assistance, Dexter felt reassured knowing he had someone by his side to answer questions and guide him through the complexities of caregiving.

A Legacy of Music and Love

Dexter’s father was a talented musician who played in the band for many prominent gospel singers. Dexter fondly remembers his childhood with his father. 

“When I was a little boy, I wanted to sing like him. I remember when he bought me my first guitar. My uncle played lead guitar, my dad played bass, and I played drums. We traveled and performed with some well-known gospel artists. He even let me start singing on stage with him. It was a blessing to perform together,” Dexter shares. 

However, life took a turn when Chanorman suffered a stroke, which affected his ability to play music.

Navigating the Challenges of Caregiving

After his father’s stroke and subsequent rehabilitation, Dexter took on the role of full-time caregiver. The transition was challenging. “Managing his care between different facilities was stressful,” Dexter explains. “I was overwhelmed. The experience was new to me, and I wanted to do everything right.”

The stress of caregiving was compounded by a lack of trust in home care workers. “Before becoming my father’s caregiver with Careforth, I had issues with trusting home care workers. They were often late, inattentive, and didn’t build meaningful relationships with my father,” Dexter shares.

The Support of Careforth and The Comfort of Home

The arrival of Careforth and Esther Wilson, Chanorman’s care manager, marked a turning point for Dexter. Esther supported Dexter by providing guidance and tools to care for his father at home. She helped Dexter coordinate with various services and professionals, ensuring a comprehensive approach to his father’s care.

Dexter’s father expressed a clear preference for being at home over institutional settings. “I’d rather be here,” he says. “It’s nice being here with my son and family.”

Dexter echoes this sentiment. “When he was in a rehab center, he called me six times a day. It was hard for him. Now, having him at home where he feels comfortable and valued is a relief for both of us.”

Esther emphasizes the benefit of incorporating independence into caregiving. Being at home allows Dexter to support his father in daily routines, such as shaving on his own. This approach is crucial for maintaining dignity and self-sufficiency, ultimately helping his father thrive in the comfort of his home.

The Impact of 24/7 Caregiver Support

One of the key benefits of Careforth’s program has been the ongoing support. Dexter appreciates Esther’s accessibility and the resources available through the Careforth app. “The support I get from Careforth is amazing. They really care about the caregiver, not just the care recipient. Esther is professional and answers all my questions. The app keeps me informed and on track,” Dexter says.

This comprehensive support has alleviated much of the stress Dexter initially felt. “I’m very comfortable with Esther and the support from Careforth. It’s a pleasure to give back to my father, and I’m proud of the care we provide together,” he adds.

A Journey of Love and Dedication

Dexter and Chanorman’s story is a powerful example of how personalized care and dedicated support can transform the caregiving experience. It highlights the importance of building trust, maintaining independence, and ensuring that both the caregiver and the care recipient feel supported and valued.

Through Careforth’s Structured Family Caregiving program and the compassionate guidance from Esther, Dexter has found a path forward that honors his father’s legacy while providing the care and support he needs to thrive at home. 

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.