Caring for the Caregiver

The task of being a caregiver includes having to cope with present losses, recurrent losses that occur over an extended period of time, and grief that is in anticipation of future losses or death. Long-time caregivers are thus inundated with loss and grief, a condition which can lead to emotional and physical exhaustion. But caregiving can include so much more. It is possible for caregivers to cope, to care, and to still create a good life. Caring for the Caregiver discusses and illustrates three spiritual attributes that add depth and richness to the caregiver's world. Through concepts of self-love, empathy, and hospitality, caregivers can find the inner strength, joy, and community to live a fuller life.

The task of being a caregiver includes having to cope with present losses, recurrent losses that occur over an extended period of time, and grief that is in anticipation of future losses or death. Long-time caregivers are thus inundated with loss and grief, a condition which can lead to emotional and physical exhaustion. But caregiving can include so much more. It is possible for caregivers to cope, to care, and to still create a good life. Caring for the Caregiver discusses and illustrates three spiritual attributes that add depth and richness to the caregiver's world. Through concepts of self-love, empathy, and hospitality, caregivers can find the inner strength, joy, and community to live a fuller life.

Kathleen Rusnak has been the pastor of three Lutheran congregations, served as a hospice chaplain in two hospices in New Jersey, was the Director of Spiritual Care and Bereavement at the Connecticut Hospice, and lived and worked in Israel for over two years as the Interim Director of the Study Department at a Post-Holocaust Christian European kibbutz in the Galilee, focused on renewal and repentance towards the Jewish people. Kathleen went to the Lutheran School of Theology in Hyde Park, South Chicago, for seminary; New York Theological Seminary in New York City for her Master of Sacred Theology; and Drew University in Madison, New Jersey, for her doctorate in psychology and religion. She is an international speaker on issues of spirituality and end of life issues. Kathleen is currently the pastor of Our Saviour Lutheran Church in Cresskill, New Jersey, and founder and president of The Brick Wall, Inc. Kathleen lives in New Hampshire.