Kate's Journey: From Crisis to Self-Reclamation

My name is Kate (official name Ei Mon). I am a carer who rediscovered herself, her purpose in life, and her aspiration to help peer carers.

I fell into a full-time caregiving role two years ago when I was planning to work in a psychological career after my research on Balance and Age. I was full of hopes and dreams after struggles after struggles, and I thought that was the start of my bright future. Unfortunately, life dropped another testament, a harsh and sudden turning point, on me.

Since the start of this 24/7 caregiving role, my cared-for person has faced crisis after crisis. We had to relocate five times within a 14-month period until we could find a sanctuary. Consequently, the compounded effects of the constant need for adjustments worsened my care recipient's health, leaving me to juggle between emergency and community care, between appointment management and work, and between caregiving and my own health. I could hardly have 10 minutes a day for myself.

I had to quit my job eventually, and I felt I lost myself—I no longer knew who I was. My whole world was dark. Throughout these times, I kept telling myself, "Kate, keep walking, you will find light at the end of the tunnel." However, I did not know how long the tunnel was or whether I could even get out of it. I felt it was the end; I was stuck. And I even had to take anti-anxiety medicine after constant anticipation of "What will happen next?"

One day, I sat down and decided this had to stop, and I had to take action now so that my health could be preserved. Then, I set boundaries (saying no to a difficult patient countless times), I created structures and disciplines for flexibility and serenity, I engaged in different social activities—virtual and physical—and I chose myself many times.

Throughout this period, I have been sticking to my hunger for learning. Yes, my hunger—more than a passion. I open my heart to learn new things although I couldn't focus on anything even. I allowed myself to receive help from others. Eventually, all this paid off. I found the reason for my existence on earth, the synchronicity of life events I have encountered from childhood to now, and I found my light.

Since I got out of my dark era, I decided to share my self-discovery journey, to spread my resilience techniques, and to ignite hope in my peer caregivers because I am one of them. I'm still caring. I'm still thriving with a peaceful mind. I am the living example of thriving through constant struggles and shining my own light. I wish every caregiver would thrive the same wholeheartedly. I do believe they can once they've found the right tools.