Al and Barbara

Al and Barbara (not their real names) had been together for over 45 years when Al was diagnosed with fast progressing Alzheimer’s Disease. Barbara and her married daughters were determined to keep Al at home and care for him until the end of his days. Then Barbara got seriously ill herself. “I just can’t do it anymore,” she said tearfully. Working full-time and having their own families to care for, her daughters couldn’t tend to their parents’ increasing needs every day. Barbara was faced with a decision that she did not want to make. As she was bracing herself emotionally to find a long-term care facility for Al, the couple received the diagnosis that Al had terminal cancer. He only had a few months to live, and Barb abandoned any idea of sending Al to long-term care. With the support of our team members, Barbara and her daughters found the strength to keep their loving husband and father at home until he peacefully died.  

This is only one example of the many desperate situations that our team members encounter when helping caregivers navigate the tremendous challenges of caring for their loved ones. Our Caregiver and Family Services provide: 

•       Emotional support through individual consultation and support groups

•       Educational sessions

•       Respite

•       Opportunities to connect with families facing similar issues

•       Referrals and information about resources 

Caregivers report that their work is rewarding. They embrace the opportunity to give to a family member that is very dear to them. Along with the rewards, come challenges and personal sacrifice. They often feel isolated and lonely. They have feelings of guilt and shame when they think, let alone express, they are exhausted. We know of caregivers who get sick and land up in hospital themselves.  

Each $100 will provide three hours of support to a caregiver. Each $1000 will help ten caregivers. By designating your donation to Caregiver and Family Services, you make a real difference in the lives of caregivers who need support. 

Since 1977, Brella Community Services Society has been making a difference in Surrey and White Rock by providing community-based services to aging adults, their families and caregivers, enabling them to lead full, engaged, and meaningful lives. Our vision is to live in a safe, inclusive, engaging, and diverse community where older adults experience dignity and feel valued.

Together, we can create a caring community.

Louise Tremblay, Executive Director