Dreamvisions 7 Radio Network

Topic: Author Betty Garrett-From Hiccups to Hospice~ A Survival Guide For The Cancer Caregiver 3 tips for the caregiver in keeping their sanity When Betty Garrett's husband, Gene, was diagnosed with esophageal cancer in 2003, she was his primary caregiver and battled it with him. When his cancer came back a year later, she decided she needed additional support for herself. Baylor University Medical Center, where Gene was undergoing treatment, did not offer a support group for caregivers. Garrett looked further and realized there were plenty of groups for patients and caregivers, but she didn't want her husband to know how overwhelming, frustrating and devastating this journey was for her. In July 2004, Garrett worked with Baylor staff to develop the hospital's Support Group for Family and Friends of Cancer Patients. Designed especially for caregivers, this forum provided its members with opportunities to discuss their challenges and victories and walk away knowing they had support, too. Soon after Gen