My Two Elaines

Learning, Coping, and Surviving as an Alzheimer’s Caregiver

De: Martin J. Schreiber, Cathy Breitenbucher - contributor

Narrado por: Martin J. Schreiber, Mike Terry, Michelle Braun, Kristine Haas

Read by the author.

In My Two Elaines, author Marty Schreiber, former governor of Wisconsin, watches his beloved wife, Elaine, gradually transform from the woman he fell in love with in high school, and who diligently supported his political career, to the Elaine who knows she is declining and can't remember how to cook a meal, and finally to the Elaine who no longer recognizes Marty or their children.

One part love story, one part practical advice, this compelling book includes several unique elements:

• Excerpts from Elaine's journal, recounting her thoughts, concerns, and frustrations as the disease progresses
• A recurring feature called "What I Wish I'd Known," which provides helpful takeaways for caregivers based on Marty’s observations about what he wishes he’d known sooner and done differently
• A Q&A between Marty and neuropsychologist Dr. Michelle Braun, to equip caregivers with the right questions to ask and empower them to advocate for their loved ones and their own needs

Beyond sincere, practical advice, My Two Elaines gives the listener permission to feel the full spectrum of emotions, including humor, even in the face of this relentless illness. And the book speaks to anyone touched by this disease—spouse, child, friend, or family member.

Further resources are included in the audiobook companion PDF download.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2017 Martin J. Schreiber (P)2022 Harper Horizon

Very helpful to me as a caregiver of my husband.

My husband has had Altzheimers for 9 years. I’m his sole caregiver. This book helped me to understand the disease better and helped me to have more patience with him.

Essential, real help, and support

This is a must read for any caregiver of a loved one with any type of dementia. Read it and share it with everyone, you know.

Very helpful!

My mom was recently put in a memory care facility and this book has provided great insight!

Excellent for all caregivers and families

Excellent story and advice for all caregivers, family and friends of someone who has Alzheimer’s. I especially moved on the chapter about isolation. As a caregiver I realized how isolated I had become from family, friends and my church caring for my wife.

Helpful , Wish More Examples

I really appreciate his sharing of what he endured and what he learned. I wish he would have given more examples of her behavior as she progressed. I understand it’s very personal, but he did decide to write about it. I don’t think giving more details or examples of her behavior would be disrespectful; rather it would help other caregivers to anticipate or affirm the behaviors that are not unique. Anything to allow caregivers to feel not alone.

Excellent for caregivers

Helps me understand what my mother is going through as a caregiver. I highly recommend it.

Heartfelt

I applaud you! This made me cry several times. I was my mom's caregiver.