Ottawa Certified Canadian Counsellor, Counselling including: Multiple Sclerosis, Eating Disorders, Self-Care for Caregivers

Deborah DeCairos Grandmaitre, M.Ed., CCC

Be the friend or loved one you've always been.
Touch me. A simple squeeze of my hand can tell me you still care.
Weep with me when I weep. Laugh with me when I laugh. Don't be afraid to share this with me.
Help me celebrate holidays by decorating my room or home.
Be creative! Bring me a book of thoughts, taped music, a poster for my wall, cookies to share, an old friend or family member who hasn't come to visit me.
Don't always feel we have to talk. We can sit silently together.
Help me feel good about my looks. Tell me I look good, considering my illness/disability.
Please include me in a decision (if applicable). I've been robbed of so many things.
Talk to me of the future. Tomorrow, next week, next year. Hope is so important.
Bring me a positive attitude!
What's in the news? Magazines, photos, newspapers, verbal reports, keep me from feeling the world is passing me by.
Is there a caregiver on your team/in your family/someone in the community that could help me with some cleaning, water my plants/flowers, and/or prepare some meals? You can't do it all!
Most of all, be there for me, listen, don't tell me I shouldn't or silently judge me, or push me in a direction I can't move in. Thanks for caring!

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