My name is Alicia, and I became a caregiver unexpectedly at the age of 34 when my dad had a major stroke at just 60 years old. At the time, I had a 3-year-old and a 1-year-old at home, and I was traveling every other week for work. Life shifted overnight.

Suddenly, I found myself juggling toddler tantrums, middle-of-the-night feedings, and hospital visits, while trying to coordinate care plans and navigate the healthcare system—all with a laptop in hand and a suitcase always half-packed. It was overwhelming, isolating, and often exhausting.

Joining this community feels like a lifeline. I know I’m not alone, and I look forward to hearing your stories and learning from your experiences. Thank you for creating a space where we can show up with our whole selves—caregivers, parents, professionals, and all.