We extend our heartfelt thanks to Timothy and Linda for welcoming us into their home and being willing 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.

For many of the people we support, caregiving is rooted in family ties. But sometimes, it’s built on something just as powerful: decades of friendship. That’s the case for Timothy, who cares for his friend of 20 years, Linda.

After a car accident left her with significant mobility struggles, Linda has needed assistance getting around and managing daily tasks at home. But her mobility is just one of the several complex health challenges Linda faces. She lives with chronic pain, diabetes, vision loss, arthritis, and weakness on her left side, along with a damaged disc in her neck. Together, these conditions make everyday life more difficult—and make Timothy’s support even more vital.

When Personal Caregiving Meets Professional Support

Timothy began his caregiving journey in 2014. With a background as a fisherman, a marine mechanic, and an artist, this was a different kind of challenge for him. Now, Timothy keeps the household running in addition to caring for Linda on a daily basis. He cooks, cleans, helps Linda get out of bed, assists her with bathing, administers her insulin, takes her to appointments, and more. 

“It’s a lot of work. I didn’t have anybody before and I just worried. What do I do?” Timothy said.

Timothy and Linda learned about Careforth through their local Department of Health and Human Services. Their Careforth care team, which includes Myriam, a remote care coach, and London, a community engagement specialist, checks in regularly to make sure all their needs are met. 

“In my role, I work with our care coaches to make sure caregivers are covered from all angles. We all work together as a team to make sure families are being taken care of,” London said.

“Both Timothy and Linda are resilient and strong individuals. I admire his awareness and devotion to ensure that Linda is always well taken care of and provides a safe environment for her,” Myriam said. “Witnessing him being the best caregiver for Linda while managing his own challenges has been the most rewarding part of supporting them.”

In addition to caregiving guidance, Myriam also reminds Timothy to find time for himself. She shares resources and reminders that help him recharge so he can be the best caregiver possible for Linda.

“I like to watch movies, that’s my thing. That’s how I relax,” Timothy said.

With a master’s degree in social work and a background as a mental health therapist, London also understands the importance of encouraging caregivers to find little moments for themselves.

“I’ve worked with a lot of people who care for their loved ones that have felt stress at certain times. I personally find it to be a huge priority to make sure that the caregiver is doing things to make sure their mental health is well, because then they can be at their best to care for the person they love,” London said.

London conducts home safety checks, from evaluating smoke detectors to making sure fire extinguishers are properly accessible. She helps ensure Timothy and Linda are set up for success with the safest caregiving environment possible.

“Timothy is just a very warm person,” London said. “He just really loves being there for Linda.”

Timothy was Linda’s caregiver for 10 years before they started receiving support and payment through Careforth in 2024. He describes it as a relief—going from handling everything alone to having his coach just a phone call away.

“I do what [I’ve been] doing forever and now I get paid for it so we can pay our bills,” Timothy said. “Careforth is something that I can count on. It’s amazing. I’m just not alone.”

Friendship in Action

What stands out most in Timothy and Linda’s story isn’t just the caregiving; it’s the enduring friendship at the heart of it. Through hospital visits, doctor’s appointments, or quiet days at home, their bond remains rooted in trust and understanding. They lean on each other and find opportunities to laugh together. 

“He’s the best person I’ve ever met, and I wouldn’t trade him for the world,” Linda said.

Their friendship shows that caregiving isn’t always defined by family roles. It’s marked by love, commitment, and mutual respect. While Timothy supports Linda physically and emotionally, she supports him too—in perspective, gratitude, and the strength of friendship. 

Careforth Supports Family Caregivers

At Careforth, we strive to provide the resources and connections that ensure caregivers feel supported throughout their caregiving journey. Visit the How We Help page on our site to learn more about how Careforth supports caregivers. Eligibility requirements can vary by location and situation. In some states, friends can step into a caregiving role—just like in this story—while in others, the guidelines are different. Contact us if you’re curious about what is possible where you live.