Concentric Circles of Caregiving
Caregiver Companion-A Guide for the Family Caregiver of Cancer Patients
Release Date: 01/14/2026
Nutrition
Caregiver Companion-A Guide for the Family Caregiver of Cancer Patients
In another vintage episode, John and Fran speak with a Certfied Nutrionist about the value and importance of healthy eating, and how simple it can really be.
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The Hinge
Caregiver Companion-A Guide for the Family Caregiver of Cancer Patients
During the summer hiatus, we thought we would re-introduce some of "classic" Caregiver Companion episodes. If you are a long time listener- this might be a good refresh. If you are new to our community, this is a chance to hear some of our early topics. We will be back with new topics and new guests after the summer. Hope you enjoy these vintage episodes.
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Meditation
Caregiver Companion-A Guide for the Family Caregiver of Cancer Patients
Caregiving is hard, grueling demanding work. Caregivers are prone to caregiver fatigue and burnout. As a caregiver is it important to be there for your loved one. But never taking the time, or never considering your own well being actually diminishes what you can do as a caregiver. Self care is an important part of the caregiver's regime. Fran and John speak with Mark Bregman, an expert in meditative therapy. Through some simple breathing techniques and visualizations you can recharge your batteries, giving some respite to your mind and body. It doesn't have to be complicated, and...
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Resources
Caregiver Companion-A Guide for the Family Caregiver of Cancer Patients
There are many resources available for family caregivers. Sometimes it's hard to know just where to look. We want to provide access to as many resources as we can, and will keep this page upadted as we learn of nedw ones. If you know of some you want to share please write to us via our website "Loving Support and Caring for the Cancer Patient" by Stan Goldberg Fran's Place for Cancer Counseling Rosalyn Carter Caregiver Institute Family Caregiver Alliance National Cancer Institute 1-800-4-CANCER American Cancer Society 1-800-ACS-2345 Cancer Care ...
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From Caregiver to Volunteer to Advocate
Caregiver Companion-A Guide for the Family Caregiver of Cancer Patients
Today Fran and John speak with a couple who were caregivers for their first spouses when they were diagnosed with cancer. They both went through difficult times caregiving for their spouses, and through tragic loss. They came through their grief, found each other, and turned to volunteerism to channel that energy. Today they are amazing advocates for cancer patients, caregivers, and families of cancer patients. Theirs is truly an inspirational story for all caregivers. 000001C4 000001C4 00002AF4 00002AF4 0018A324 0018A324 00007E86 00007E86 00132D49 00132D49
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The Sound of Music
Caregiver Companion-A Guide for the Family Caregiver of Cancer Patients
Fran and John speak with a Certified Therapeutic Musician. A unique title, and a unique instrument she plays. Carolyn Bodginski is a Certified Therpeutic Musician, helping patients, family caregivers and even hospital staff deal with the stresses of having, and caring for, someone with a life threatening illness. Her instrument of choice: The Mountain Dulcimer. The sweet and soulfull voice of a mountain dulcimer brings soothing, calm and peace to anyone hearing it, or playing it.
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Clinical Trials Part 2
Caregiver Companion-A Guide for the Family Caregiver of Cancer Patients
In this episode, we continue the conversation with Dr. Fui Sun Wong, Oncology Pharmacist and Professor of Pharmacology about the many aspects of clinical trials.
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Clinical Trials Part 1
Caregiver Companion-A Guide for the Family Caregiver of Cancer Patients
In today's episode, John speaks with Dr. Siu Fun Wong, an Oncology Pharamacist and Professor of Pharmacology. It is a deeper dive into the world of clinical trials, as a follow up to last season's introduction to clinical trials.
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Public Policies in Caregiving Part 2
Caregiver Companion-A Guide for the Family Caregiver of Cancer Patients
In todays,episode, we continue the discussion of public policies with respect to caregiving, outside the United States. In my limited research, I found no consistency among various programs and policies in place around the world. Although, there are definitely some 'best practices' that could be incorporated into existing programs and policies. While most of the discussion surrounded itself with programs at the national level, its apparent advocacy and resources at the local level may be the fastest and best way to gain attention and get services needed for caregivers. There is a...
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Public Policy Part 1
Caregiver Companion-A Guide for the Family Caregiver of Cancer Patients
There is a caregiver crisis happening throughout the world. For the vast majority, the role of caregiver falls to a family member or close friend when a loved one is diagnosed with a serious illness or disabiity. It is one of the most important jobs a person will have, and yet, one they are least prepared to take on. The gap between caregiver support needs, and resources available is widening. In today's episode, John and Fran talk about the state of caregiving, and of caregivers in the United States. Our next episode will focus on policies and programs outside teh United States.
info_outlineCaregiving can be described as a set of concentric circles, sort of like a bullseye, where the center of the circle is the patient- the focus of everyone's attention. The next circle, or ring, is the primary caregiver, closest to the patient and the most intensely involved. As you move out from the center, other rings emerge, such as the spouse or partner of the caregiver. Then family members , children or siblings could be in the next ring. The next may be friends or neighbors, then support groups or church community. The circles can go on indefinitely, depending on one's social network. In this episode, Fran and John speak with two women who are the partner and spouse of the primary family caregiver. They are in that second ring, in a role to support and encourage their loved one who is the primary caregiver. They describe for us, the challenges and opportunties to provide support to their partner. In addition, Lori and Patty are close long time friends, and have been able to provide support, encouragement and advice to one another as they too navigate caregiving.