09/12/2025
Caring for a family member is very challenging, very hard and sometimes we just can't do it due to various reasons. We are very humbled, inspired, grateful and blessed to feature our Family Caregiver for this Fall 2025, Kelly and her sister Flora.
Here is their story:
My Caregiver Journey with Flora.
Hello, my name is Kelly, and I have the blessing of being a family caregiver for my sister, Flora. Becoming her caregiver has given me the opportunity to provide her with quality, personalized care and the comfort of knowing she is supported by someone who truly loves her.
Flora was born with developmental delays and other genetic health conditions that have gradually worsened over the years. Since we have lost both our parents and our brother, we lean on each other deeply. Other than extended family, it’s really just the two of us, and I cannot imagine what her life would be like if I wasn’t able to care for her. She responds best to someone familiar, and I’m grateful I can be that person for her.
Like any caregiver, I face challenges. The biggest is time—balancing everyday responsibilities with the demands of caregiving can be overwhelming. At times, I also feel guilt, wondering if I am doing enough or if I could do more. But the joys far outweigh the struggles. I remind Flora often that God provides what we need, not always what we want, and He has been faithful every step of the way.
Flora has many interests that bring light into our lives. She loves coloring, listening to books on her iPad, and editing the photos she takes to make them more beautiful. We especially enjoy traveling together—from Dollywood, to visiting family and friends in Florida, to sitting on a balcony overlooking the ocean. She isn’t a fan of hot weather, but she loves listening to the waves and breathing in the sea air. Recently, we took a cruise to Alaska together. While there were challenges that came with navigating her disabilities, we managed—and now Flora proudly tells everyone that she is “hooked” on cruising!
I am truly grateful for programs that make caregiving possible. Thank you to Next Step Care and Pride Home Care Services for giving me the opportunity to support Flora in ways that keep her healthy, happy, and loved.
Being her caregiver is not just my responsibility—it is one of my greatest blessings.
