Sue Ryan and Nancy Treaster know how to have fun even when talking about a topic that's anything but.
"Is it time to change our loved one's caregiving situation?" Sue asked while recording an episode of their podcast, "The Caregiver's Journey."
"Even though I knew he had dementia, sometimes it was hard to accept," Sue said of her father, who has since passed. "He celebrated his birthday back in heaven, as did my husband."
For Sue, access to her husband, Jack, who has also since passed, slowly faded away.
"I would have caregiving experiences with my dad. It taught me to really accept that this is the journey. I would then apply those in my journey for my husband and make it easier for him," Sue said.
Shortly into caregiving for Jack, Sue noticed the lack of practical tips for caregivers of those with dementia.
"I was overwhelmed...I said I was often on an emotional roller-coaster blindfolded," Sue said. "I had no idea what was going on. I thought I'd just start a podcast because I'm such a passionate communicator. I don't want to do it alone."
That's where Nancy comes in.
"I'm the editor, so sometimes I let Sue talk for a while, and sometimes that doesn't necessarily make it into the final copy," Nancy said laughing.
Nancy and Sue, friends for years, found they were struggling in similar situations.
"Kim, my husband, had Primary Progressive Aphasia," Nancy said. "Most people know of it because Bruce Willis has that. They send your loved one home with medication, but no one tells you how to be a caregiver."
The two teamed up to start "The Caregivers Journey" podcast with the intention to share practical tips for caregivers that aren't commonly shared.
"You've built me with confidence, you made me feel like I can do it, and I'm a better caregiver because of you and Sue," Nancy said of listeners who have written in. "That's exactly what we want them to be."
The main message relayed to listeners like Sue Ackert is to have hope in the heartbreak.
"The Lord is prying him out of my hands. I think every day a little bit goes, and a little bit goes, but my love and devotion stays," Sue said.
So, while caregiving for someone you love can be overwhelming, support and strength are a listen away.
You can learn more about the "The Caregivers Journey" on its website here .