Pittsburgh native Carole Brecht comes from a talkative family, but when her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease no one discussed her illness. In today’s show, Carole shares what she learned about the importance of having frank conversations about Alzheimer’s, and she talks about the silence and isolation that accompanied her own caregiving experience. She also talks about her father’s unwavering devotion to her mother and how, during her saddest and darkest days, Carole found her way back to her roots as an artist, creating a book that combines Zentangle-inspired artwork with supportive letters written to caregivers. Tune in for a spirited discussion with this award-winning author.
Learn more about Carole’s book and her work: SanGenWoman
Referenced work of Dr. John Stanko: PurposeQuest
Music: “Cosmic Kitten” by Letmeknowyouanatole | CC BY SA | Free Music Archive
Scattered: My Year As An Accidental Caregiver is available in paperback and eBook at
This podcast is packed full of incredible dialogue and information about the Alzheimer’s caregiver journey. Very very rich. Thanks to both of you!
Thanks for your thoughts, April. So glad you enjoyed the episode and found it useful.
Thank you April for sharing your comments and letting us know you thought my interview was worthwhile. I appreciate that.
I forgot to mention during my interview – though my book is based out of my Caregiving days with my Mom during her Alzheimer’s journey, my book does not focus on any disease. The book’s focus is to affirm and support Caregivers. I reference my Mom’s illness, but I created the book for anyone in the Caregiver role to let you know your understood and not alone. I believe people of all ages will find the book inspirational through my letters and Zentangle Caregiver Art.