Etsy's Handmade Blog
Gingeroni1 Works for Caregivers' Rights
Story by Gingeroni1
Published on August 17, 2009 in Craftivism 		Photo by

Kathi and Dennis, as they renew their vows

 UPDATE: We just heard from Kathi, "Just a quick update to let you know the spousal caregiver bill HB39 has been signed by the Governor and should go into effect immediately. Thank you so very much for writing the original article in the Storque and the exposure that it gave to the bill." Congratulations, Kathi!

[The original post below is from November 2007, so you can see democracy works, even if it takes a couple years!]

As admins, we often get emails from people who work from home and how they use Etsy to reach out to the world wide web for income and community. For us, Kathi aka Gingeroni1's voice spoke out from the home in another way. As a fulltime caregiver for her husband, Dennis, who has Lou Gehrig's Disease, Gingeroni1 uses Etsy as one of her main sources of income.

I am a full time caregiver for my husband who was diagnosed in 1999 with A.L.S., better known as Lou Gehrig's Disease.  My husband is totally dependent on me.   He survives only by the use of a ventilator, and has done so for 4½ years. 

I stumbled upon Etsy in September of '06 as just a buyer and was hooked right away.  Since I am not able to go outside my home without arranging for someone to come sit with my husband, I had to do all of my Christmas shopping online.   The site was amazing — so much talent in one space. There were so many choices at fair prices, which is important when you have so very little disposable income.  I was already selling some of my jewelry pieces here locally and contemplating using the Internet but, by no means, was I computer savvy.  When opportunity knocks, kick that door wide open.  I listed my first item in March of this year and said, "Hey, this is easy.   I can do this."  Well my pictures of my jewelry were another story.  Dennis has always been the photographer.  I have been practicing, though, and have become acceptable at it.   Now that I have my own shop on Etsy, it gives me a sense of pride. It has been an amazing journey for me and I have met so many wonderful people on Etsy.   Even my good friend of eighteen years has opened up a shop.  It is called Ooh La Lah.

I have done so many wonderful things since my husband's diagnoses.  Don't get me wrong, of course, I wish this disease had never entered our lives.  However, I believe it not only has made me a stronger person, but also a better person.  When you have such a horrific event in your life such as this, you really stop and think about what is truly important.   My husband, Dennis, is my life, my inspiration, and my hero.  He has such an amazing attitude and that allows me to do what I do.

Presently, as a spousal caregiver, I get absolutely no help from the government.  It is as if I am invisible, yet I save them hundreds of thousands of dollars a year by caring for my husband in our home.   I was informed that if I divorced my husband, the government would pay me to care for him in HIS home.  What is wrong with that picture?!  That is something that I cannot and will not do!   I am also currently promoting the congressional bill H.R.175 that, if passed, would provide payment for spousal caregivers. I have a meeting this month in our home with Illinois Senator David Koehler to discuss these issues.  He has been quoted in a newspaper article as saying there is no program to date, but that he was willing to investigate to see if one could be implemented.   When opportunity knocks, open that door wide.  This issue is huge for so many spousal caregivers who feel the same way as I; that the only option is to divorce their spouses to survive.   Well, I do not think that this is an option.

My husband and I, along with a committee of fifteen, have started and chaired our local Walk To Defeat A.L.S. for the last three years.  We have raised-to-date a total of $250, 000.00 in that three short years.  I also am a mentor to other caregivers.  I have done television interviews and newspaper interviews.   Dennis and I have been the profile family for the local MDA telethon.  I have initiated the ALS Association Water Bottle Project that sells and distributes drinking water with an A.L.S. label on it.  It's currently being distributed In Illinois and Missouri to hundreds of retailers. For every case of water that is sold, fifty cents is donated to the A.L.S. Association for research and patient services. 

I have many challenges in my life, but the rewards are much greater.  I truly, truly am blessed.

Your Friend,

Kathi

Further Resources:

To learn more about ALS commonly known as Lou Gerhig's Disease go to alsa-stl.org

Kathi's Caretobead blog
Tags caregivers, CRAFTIVISM, disability, economics, family, Gingeroni1, households, legislation, Lou Gehrig's Disease, politics, rights
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123 comments     Login to add your own!

Nov. 1, 2007 at 3:33 p.m. QuincyPearson

Thanks so much for this!
What a great article. Really pretty jewelry as well.

Nov. 1, 2007 at 3:43 p.m. Vanessa

Yes her jewelry is very cool. And what a strong person!

Nov. 1, 2007 at 4:39 p.m. pulpsushi

What an inspiring article, thank you for sharing this with us.

Nov. 1, 2007 at 4:58 p.m. ToBeEwe

Kathi....

I wish you the best of luck with your shop. You jewelry is very nice. I am disabled and I don't know if the people at Etsy really understand the great service they provide for people who find it hard to get around.
Thanks for sharing your story. Hello to Dennis also.

Nov. 1, 2007 at 5:40 p.m. twolefthands

Kathi,
You are an inspiration to me, and a beautiful person from the inside out! Best of luck to you and Dennis.
p.s. I love the photo!

Nov. 1, 2007 at 7:06 p.m. thefunkyfelter

Wonderful, inspiring article - I'm so glad that I read it! What a beautiful pair of people :O) Best wishes!!

Nov. 1, 2007 at 7:42 p.m. saltandpaper

what a wonderful article - and what a beautiful shop! your work is lovely.

Nov. 2, 2007 at 2:36 a.m. SupernovaDesigns

A very touching story, and pretty jewelry to boot!

Nov. 2, 2007 at 3:15 a.m. quirkybags

We lost our great uncle to ALS in February. Thank you so much for all that you are doing, Kathi.

Nov. 2, 2007 at 9:37 a.m. Gingeroni1

Thank you all so much for taking the time to read my article, your kind word's and thoughtfulness...Kathi

Nov. 2, 2007 at 11:01 a.m. SweetPollyRose

This article is really inspiring...it's amazing how strong some people can be in nightmarish situations, and how much personal growth can come about as a result. It seems utterly ridiculous to me that no support is offered to spouses in the US, in the UK you would be getting financial help and regular visits from a social worker. Good luck with your campaigning, keep making the gorgeous jewellery and stay strong x

Nov. 3, 2007 at 6:49 a.m. pmo3ws

Kathi your items are beautiful and very reasonably priced! I am a new buyer here at etsy and just learning how to get around the site. Lovely picture of you and husband.

Nov. 3, 2007 at 11:47 p.m. juliapearl

Kathi, you and Dennis are an inspiration. You are a true portrait of love and strength, and I wish you much peace and hope.

Nov. 4, 2007 at 1 a.m. wendyhumphreys

Kathi, your story is amazing. You are a
beautiful person, you know a little of my story, and I know it's not always easy.
I wish you both the very best and stay stong, and I hope you can get the bill
passed.

Nov. 4, 2007 at 4:39 p.m. DesignsByBari

What a touching story! I am so glad that ETSY has provided a sort of haven for you.
When I read the article and looked at your items I immediately went to FAVORITE you for holiday purchases...guess what? I already had! I love your stuff and will be in touch soon when I start my holiday shopping!
Thanks again for sharing!

Nov. 5, 2007 at 8:13 a.m. Rivkasmom

As a disabled single mom, I understand a lot of what you are going through. I am so glad that you are taking on the system. There are so many things wrong with the way this country treats the disabled and their caretakers. Some day they'll make a movie about you!

I think your photography and your work are quite lovely. You've sold extremely well so far, and I hope things only continue to be better and better.

You and your husband have my most heartfelt prayers.

Nov. 5, 2007 at 11:18 a.m. terryann

YOU! are wonderful, God Bless you both!

Nov. 5, 2007 at 7:34 p.m. Design4u

What a wonderful lady you are! It is such an inspiration to hear all the things that you are doing to make life better for not only you and your husband but for others, as well.

I absolutely love your jewelry. It speaks to me every time I look in your shop. I am proud of you for doing this to help you both.

Nov. 5, 2007 at 11:01 p.m. Gingeroni1

I truly appreciate all of the kind word's. They really mean so much to me as well as Dennis. I have been sharing them with him. As you can tell by the photo he loves to smile. He really Is my Inspiration. God Bless..Kathi

Nov. 6, 2007 at 6:48 a.m. LazyTcrochet

What an inspiration you are! and your shop is gorgeous!

Nov. 6, 2007 at 9:12 a.m. Angelecca1

You are so beautiful inside and out! And your jewelry is beautiful too! You rock, Kathi!

Nov. 7, 2007 at 11:35 a.m. bonghivestiti

kathi,
I believe God sends us angels and you are one!
Your creations are beautiful! I couldn't pull myself away from your shop :)

God Bless you for all the things you do!

Nov. 7, 2007 at 12:05 p.m. msotherdenartglass

I feel especially blessed that some of my work has found a home with you. You are an inspiration! Give each other hugs from our home to yours :)

Nov. 7, 2007 at 12:51 p.m. kellirene

Kathi, you are a true inspiration! May God bless you both abundantly! Your work is beautiful, but you are even more brilliant in your strength of love and character. Thank you for sharing your life with us.....

Nov. 7, 2007 at 4:47 p.m. thisandthat

Wonderful article! Kathi, you really are such a treasure! What a beautiful picture of such a sweet couple. It has been my pleasure to work with you on some projects over this past year. Your jewelry is fantastic and I love wearing it and showing it off whenever I can. Best of luck in everything you do! And thank you for being such an inspiration.

Nov. 8, 2007 at 3:46 p.m. PauletteInsall

Kathi you are a true inspiration!!! May God bless you both and everything you are working so hard to achieve!!! I can't wait to wear the beautiful earrings I bought from you yesterday and I'm sure I'll be back for more!! :)

Nov. 24, 2007 at 8:19 a.m. sleepingdogstudio

kathy ... you deserve every bit of praise and support for your work. i have always loved your jewels, and now even more so. thank you for sharing your story. wendy

Dec. 29, 2007 at 7:25 p.m. happydaystudio

Kathi -- I hope that you and others in similar home-care situations can be recognized for what you are doing. It is amazing, and I love that photo of you and your husband! It makes me smile, because you are both so happy :)

I already ordered a piece from you, and can't wait to get it ;) Good luck with everything....

~Kelly

Nov. 2, 2008 at 5:54 p.m. simpledream2

Kathi,
I noticed you selected my shop as a favorite, then went to your shop and read your profile; which lead me to this article. I am literally having to type thru the tears. WOW. You are a strong woman, what inspiration you are for others. What a beautiful picture of you and your husband. I will definitely refer your shop to anyone I can.
Thanks,
Lisa

Dec. 28, 2008 at 3:48 a.m. butterflyroses

Kathi;
Thank you for getting the word out in your state. It is the same here in Indiana *I worked in Homecare for 19yrs and know of families that divorced just to survive.As one family stated to me"We are still married in ours hearts & in the eyes of God" just not the state. *I meant my husband in "95" @ the Indianapolis MDA telethon. He asked me to married him in 2000 live on air during a cutaway. We married in 07/01. He is my light as I am his day. I pray for the day there is NO need for the MDA telethon. My husband has LGMD(limb-girdle muscular dystrophy).Kathi &Dennis may God's blessings be with you and know that you both are in my prayers. p.s. Kathi your work is outstanding and graceful with an old world feel about it. I can't wait to receive your work. Brinda

Aug. 17, 2009 at 3:19 p.m. sandali

Kathi ... it's truly like the saying : "If there's a will there's a way" -- you are honeslty an inspiration to all of us !!!
You have a beautiful shop with AWESOME items -- always know that the strenght is within us -- anything is possible ;)

Aug. 17, 2009 at 3:20 p.m. 4TheSparrowsNest

What a BEAUTIFUL and inspiring story!! I am so happy that this much-needed bill was passed, and thankful for people like Kathi who try to make the best of hardships in their lives. Many blessings to you and your husband Kathi.

Aug. 17, 2009 at 3:22 p.m. AlexMetalArts

What an inspiration! I'm so happy that H.R.175 passed!

Aug. 17, 2009 at 3:22 p.m. workingforpeanuts

Kathi- My best wishes go out to you. You are terrific- strong and talented! Thank-you.

Aug. 17, 2009 at 3:22 p.m. lovelygifts

Nice article, and nice jewelry.

Aug. 17, 2009 at 3:23 p.m. SEOWebDesign

Kathi - life is sometimes far from easy but you have turned your life into a positive and meaningful blessing to your husband and everyone around you. Blessings to you.

Aug. 17, 2009 at 3:24 p.m. TheBrassHussy

I have often wondered if my husband would get more benefits if we were divorced. He is a paraplegic now. So sad that some have to get more benefits that way.

I admire you Kathi, you are a very strong person. And you have done such wonderful things by raising awareness and funds for the ALS disease.

Aug. 17, 2009 at 3:24 p.m. moonovermaize

Amazing and so very inspiring! Thank you so much for sharing your story.

Aug. 17, 2009 at 3:30 p.m. songsparrow

Very inspirational story :) Glad it was PASSED. We need more people like Kathi in the world.

Aug. 17, 2009 at 3:31 p.m. beautifulbridget

What an amazing story, thank you so much for sharing it!

Aug. 17, 2009 at 3:37 p.m. boylerpf

A wonderful story! Kudos to Kathi & her husband for fighting the fight and cheers to Etsy for giving it the Storque approval!

Aug. 17, 2009 at 3:39 p.m. SimpleJoysPaperie

I thought this couple looked familiar! I've been to Kathi's blog before.
Congratulations on the good news about the bill!

Aug. 17, 2009 at 3:44 p.m. kasiablue

Reading your story made my heart fill with love for the both of you. Congrats on getting one step closer to winning the cause. Wishing you all the best :)

Aug. 17, 2009 at 3:45 p.m. RockPaperSilver

Wow...what a touching story. Kathi, you and your family are an inspiration not only as a reminder to step back and take in life (rather than let it pass you by) but also through your courage and dedication to a very real cause. Congrats on the success...it is so wonderful to hear that hard work and a "no-fail" attitude pays off! Blessings to you and your family!

Aug. 17, 2009 at 3:46 p.m. tangente

I remember reading the article back in 2007. Thank you for the update :)

Aug. 17, 2009 at 3:48 p.m. BranchandBirdie

What a wonderful committed wife! Beautiful jewelry!

Aug. 17, 2009 at 3:49 p.m. Waterrose

Kathi how wonderful! I know how much it will be appreciated by the 1000s of people out there taking care of their loved ones. You are very special and I applaud your work and strength!

Aug. 17, 2009 at 3:55 p.m. tinycharm

Oh that is wonderful!

Aug. 17, 2009 at 4:01 p.m. happydaystudio

Amazing! (and I love all your new pieces!!) :)

Aug. 17, 2009 at 4:02 p.m. GreenTease

Great great article!!!

Aug. 17, 2009 at 4:08 p.m. Gingeroni1

Thank you all so very much for your well wishes. Your kindness Is so appreciated. I have continued to care for my husband whether I received compensation or not. This truly was a bill that needed to be passed and with the help of Senator David Koehler It happened. Not will It only help my family but the thousands of other families that struggle everyday to keep their loved ones with them. Take care. I am truly blessed..Kathi

Aug. 17, 2009 at 4:09 p.m. odiliafu

Very inspiring and touching story!!! Kathi, you are such a strong and positive person. I really admire you!! Wish you and your husband all the best.

Aug. 17, 2009 at 4:11 p.m. thebestvintage

You are very inspiring!

Aug. 17, 2009 at 4:14 p.m. steinschmuckdesign

Kathi, you are really strong and
I wish you all the Best for what ever is coming!

Aug. 17, 2009 at 4:17 p.m. EJPcreations

So inspiring!!!! Such an amzing story!

Aug. 17, 2009 at 4:17 p.m. pennyspug

You are a wonderful woman, doing wonderful things, and I wish you great success!

Aug. 17, 2009 at 4:17 p.m. ViVictoria

The best wishes, a lot power and successes!
I fight leukemia, without any government help, so I understand a bit...
Yes, it is very inspiring, thank you very much!
Warm regards!

Aug. 17, 2009 at 4:21 p.m. aBreathofFrenchair

What a beautiful story! Thanks for sharing your journey.

Aug. 17, 2009 at 4:23 p.m. warmnfuzzies

Very inspirational and beautiful story! Best wishes.

Aug. 17, 2009 at 4:26 p.m. SeaFindDesigns

What a beautiful story! You're an inspiration Kathi!!!

Aug. 17, 2009 at 4:28 p.m. tictacdough

beautiful story! her jewelry is beautiful too!

Aug. 17, 2009 at 4:33 p.m. vintageagogirl

Many many thanks to you Kathi for your story. You are an inspiration to many and your story I know will help others realize how blessed we are for every moment we have to love and to care for human life. What a great gal you are and what a great guy you have. Blessings to you both. Love your shop too.

Aug. 17, 2009 at 4:51 p.m. amyelisedesigns

Bless you Kathi and Dennis! I am glad to hear your bill is being signed by your governor! You are an inspiration to us all and I am happy to have met you and been able to work with you on several of your creative projects. Your talent is never ending and your strength is so admirable. Hugs and lots of kisses! Amy :)

Aug. 17, 2009 at 4:58 p.m. baconsquarefarm

Beautiful lady on the inside and out~ thank you for sharing your story and I've always admired your shop. What an inspiration you are to all of us in this Etsy community. May you continue to be blessed and maybe someday they will find a cure for ALS~!

Aug. 17, 2009 at 5 p.m. ikabags

what a strong person! Many thanks for your story....You are great !!!!!

Aug. 17, 2009 at 5:15 p.m. aphrodite888

Kathi,
Wishing the best for you and your husband.
You're experience is an inspirational to all of us...

Aug. 17, 2009 at 5:22 p.m. twolefthands

You go girl! Congratulations Kathi and Dennis! Your hard work has finally paid off. Thank you so much for sharing your love story with us, many blessings to you both!

Aug. 17, 2009 at 5:42 p.m. FrillyButts

You are a very inspirational woman! Thank you for sharing with us. You make gorgeous jewelry!

Aug. 17, 2009 at 6:07 p.m. shopgoodgrace

Many thanks to Kathi and Dennis for sharing their story ~ it is very powerful. Congratulations on your successes in obtaining rights for the caregivers and those they love. Your tireless work has really made a difference... and will hopefully lay the foundation for other states to follow suit. Bravo!!

Aug. 17, 2009 at 6:07 p.m. soule

Thank you Kathi and Dennis!
My mother is my fathers (Quadriplegia) caregiver also, she was told the same thing, that she can get paid if they divorce, that of course was not an option in their minds. I'm grateful for everyone who has signed this bill and pushed it through to get it where it is... and to Etsy for sharing this with everyone...again THANK YOU!

Aug. 17, 2009 at 6:39 p.m. breadandroses

Congratulations Kathi & Dennis! You are a genuine role model of compassion & selflessness.

Aug. 17, 2009 at 6:49 p.m. Candies64

YEAH, you go girlfriend! You know how happy I am for you and Dennis♥ As I've already said before and will say again, you are my daily inspiration!!! So happy this bill is finally passed for you and many others like you and Dennis.
Proud to be your friend~
candice

Aug. 17, 2009 at 8:53 p.m. moonstr

Beautiful article!!!!
♥

Aug. 17, 2009 at 9:35 p.m. sumerthyme2

I am also a caregiver. My daughter has been brain damaged since before birth. She is now 27 years old and totally dependent on me for all of her needs. I know it is not the same as having your life partner disabled, but I understand how difficult and exhausting it can be. I am thankful for being to work at home, too. I love my work and my store is a great help financially.

Jamie

Aug. 17, 2009 at 9:35 p.m. mysparetimedesign

I too deal with a disability on a daily basis, and three weeks ago had an aortic valve replacement and aortic repair....and knew that once I was able to sit up and get crackin' with the creating I could get right back into business...hehehe...I remember crochet the third day after surgery and thinking of all the things I thought I could make for the fall season.
I've tried to supply stores and such and the only success I have is with people who truly understand that there may be days I can't get out or it might take me an extra week every once in a while to get things delivered because I'm not able to drive.
But on Etsy it doesn't matter, your craft stands on its own, along with the pride and work you put into it and your customer service record..
who knows the stories behind the great sellers I've met and am still to meet...
but we know we all share the love of crafting and that's what matters!
debbie

Aug. 17, 2009 at 9:43 p.m. heliumstudioandpost

Inspirational! And your jewelry is beautiful.

Aug. 17, 2009 at 9:45 p.m. KylieO

What an amazing story. We have different carers options here in Australia and my Dad cared for my Mum for years. I really admire Kathi's energy, determination and devotion!

Aug. 17, 2009 at 10:07 p.m. EarthenTreasures

Kathi, you are doing a wonderful thing. I too am a caregiver, but my daughter falls under SSI, so she can have someone to help her at home. Granted, it isn't very much, but somehow we have survived. I thank you for being a voice for those who are most vulnerable, can you believe that they want us to abandon our loved ones in a center, and think they are saving money? I doesn't take a rocket scientist to do the math... Kudo's to you!

Aug. 17, 2009 at 10:38 p.m. marjiew

What an amazing and inspiring story!

Aug. 17, 2009 at 10:43 p.m. QueenCatherine

Dear Kathi~
God Bless you for your devotion and strength. It is not easy, I was a nurse for 25 years and saw the angst families would go through trying to decide how to give their loved ones the best of care. Now I have M.S. and am homebound myself. It is hard to get family to understand sometimes. I make jewelry too to; as therapy keep my eye/hand soordination from failing(plus it's alot of fun!).
You and your husband are a great inspiration for me and I'm sure many others who have read this and who are blessed to know you. Thank you for all you have done to raise awareness and work towards this bill being passed.
With kind regards,
Jan (aka QueenCatherine) :heart:

Aug. 17, 2009 at 10:56 p.m. yummyandcompany

Congratulations Kathi! You're an inspiration!

Aug. 17, 2009 at 10:59 p.m. Boutiqueprincessnbow

Kathi
All I have to say is WOW to you for fighting for your rights as a person, as a caregiver and as a wife.

I actually know how you feel and on many levels, personally.
My husband used to be a carpenter until that one horrible day he fell from the scaffolding in Jan 06. He broke his back in 2 places and his back was not lined up properly anymore. He also hit his head and even today seems to forget things that he knew he usually would have remembered.
My husband thankfully can walk today but when this happened..no one knew. He was in a wheelchair for weeks, was able to move his feet.
After a yr of therapy he was not ok and he knew if he didn't have surgery, he life quality would be affected. So he decided to do it.
2 huge rods in his back. He is doing better now but still cant do anything with brisk movements or to much in general.
But, that yr--that year, 06.. was the worst yr ever.
Being home with my 2 kids and trying to care for my husband. We did have workmans comp which barely covered the mortgage.
I applied to WIC.
I also had an auctistic son (which at the time we didn't know) and had a lot of stress from dealing with that as well as my husbands accident.
I needed to find a way to work from home and care for my husband and that is how I found ebay 1st and then ventured onto here.
In the beginning it was small things and making anything at all was something towards our bills, or just food.
It's amazing how we changed as a family, changed as people and the way wse see life now.
I commend you.

san

Aug. 18, 2009 at 12:13 a.m. FlanneryCrane

God Bless and so happy to read your story and visit your shop. I wish you much success here!

Aug. 18, 2009 at 12:38 a.m. FunFobs

Kathi, you are lovely through and through! I enjoyed your article and get lots of compliments on my ring. Keep moving forward. ;)

Aug. 18, 2009 at 1:20 a.m. MyWisteriaCottage

So many have this simular story! I am a nurse and my son had a stroke 5 years ago. I brought him home but could not leave him and the state said because I was already in the home I could not get but a small amount of state help. "You already cook and clean, it's your house!" It was a huge strugle to care for him and earn a living! But he recovered to the point he can care for himself and his two children and run his home. I know I am blessed. I thank you for trying to better the familys of beloved disabled! Please keep it up. Sue MWC

Aug. 18, 2009 at 3:22 a.m. slinkymalinkicat

You are both an inspiration to us all. Thank you for sharing.

Aug. 18, 2009 at 3:42 a.m. evihan

such a strong woman you are....thanx for sharing:-)

Aug. 18, 2009 at 5:14 a.m. GalleryJuana

Congratulations on getting the bill passed in your State!

My Mother was a Spousal Caregiver. She took care of my father (her husband) during the last years of his terminal cancer. Hopefully, this bill can become a federal one.

My heart and respect go out to all caregivers.

Aug. 18, 2009 at 6:25 a.m. danielabesso

Beautiful story, absolutely amazing, thank you

Aug. 18, 2009 at 7:50 a.m. embellishedlife

Beautiful story. This is what I want to read more of.

Aug. 18, 2009 at 8:13 a.m. quirkybeauty

Absolutely lovely, heartwarming story. Congratulations. Your husband must be so proud of you. You're doing such an awesome job.

Aug. 18, 2009 at 9:03 a.m. cravejewelrydesign

This is so awesome! Being a caregiver is such an important role, good luck on your endeavors!!

Aug. 18, 2009 at 9:08 a.m. AnniesWearableArt

Kathy is a hero; thank you for spotlighting her story. It's SO important.
My sister, nieces and I took care of my Dad after our Mom passed away. To this day, it is the most important, and was the most difficult thing I have ever done in my life. It requires the best of all that you are, but ultimately gives you so much back, tenfold.
Caregivers are true angels on earth.

Aug. 18, 2009 at 9:28 a.m. Marzipana818

You are such a huge inspiration-a true angel!

Aug. 18, 2009 at 10:32 a.m. kateveeme

congrats! thank you for the tireless work you have done :)

Aug. 18, 2009 at 12:50 p.m. PhineasandLou

Your story and your work are amazing! Wow :)

Aug. 18, 2009 at 3:12 p.m. designlab443

lovely lovely story!

Aug. 18, 2009 at 5:04 p.m. jodieflowers

So awesome!

Aug. 18, 2009 at 7:42 p.m. kenjiku

love your story... you go girl!

Aug. 18, 2009 at 9:35 p.m. KnitsCrochetAndMore

Touching and inspiring. Beautiful soul!

Aug. 18, 2009 at 11:39 p.m. MeghanT

Wow Kathi. You are one amazing woman and it sounds like you're married to a very special man. You two have been on quite the journey together and your inspiring story touched my heart. Congratulations on getting the spousal caregiver bill HB39 passed. This is going to help so many people. It just goes to show what a little determination and perseverance in the face of adversity can do!

Aug. 19, 2009 at 2:18 a.m. shizendesigns

Kathi - you are such an inspiration!

Aug. 19, 2009 at 6:29 a.m. Bunnys

Thanks for bringing this issue to our attention. Thank ETSY

Aug. 19, 2009 at 9:13 a.m. LeatherwoodDesigns

Thank you for the update. What an inspiring story!

Aug. 19, 2009 at 12:31 p.m. amoronia

Thank you for this story!

Aug. 19, 2009 at 2:18 p.m. Tessyla

Fabulous jewelry!

Aug. 19, 2009 at 2:45 p.m. SimpleTraditions

Wow, you and your husband are both an inspiration!It's so awesome to see a husband and wife that are able to work through what ever comes there way. Congrats!

Aug. 20, 2009 at 7:35 a.m. SuppliesHandcrafted

Bless you both & what a superb effort you have and are putting forth for the rest of us!! You go girl!!

Aug. 21, 2009 at 7:39 a.m. babinka1981

Powerful lady! Bless you both! Good luck for you and family! Great jewelry!

Aug. 21, 2009 at 10:24 a.m. Lambsears

Bravo! to a woman who is willing to stay with her husband after being diagnosed with a terminal disease. So many times we see couples that are willing to divorce because of seemingly insignificant reasons, usually selfishness. This couple is truly a team and accomplished SO much for others by staying together!

Aug. 24, 2009 at 7:43 a.m. CaptiveStudio

I am a caregiver for my daughter and recently closed a very successful business to take care of her full time. I am trying to make it on Etsy and really have a lot of empathy for those who conquer this challenge in life. Best of luck to those out there in the same situation. Thanks for your story. I love your jewelry and wish you both the best.

Aug. 25, 2009 at 5:46 a.m. reingarddesign

Great article, you story is really inspiring!
The jewellery is wonderful too!

Love,
Eleonora

Aug. 26, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. CrystalLuLLaby

Wonderful inspiring article and beautiful jewelry!

Aug. 30, 2009 at 3:44 p.m. ColourHarmonics

I can really relate to your story Kathi as I too am a carer for my son who has autistic spectrum disorders. I too need to work from home as a result, and have just found this wonderful site (Etsy) and hope to be able to make my dream of working from home a reality. I love your shop and wish you both much love x

Sept. 1, 2009 at 10:47 p.m. sunkissed1183

My "atta girl" goes to you. :)

Sept. 4, 2009 at 11:02 p.m. GTcottagecrafts

How inspiring.

Sept. 7, 2009 at 12:34 p.m. icanspellit

So much CREATIVITY. I love it!!

Sept. 16, 2009 at 1:56 a.m. UpLateAgain

AMEN !

Sept. 29, 2009 at 7:39 p.m. wiresNpliers

I hear you, Gingeroni1, As a mom of a daughter that requires 1:1, I totally know where you are coming from. It's a pleasure to get away for a trip to the store..The Library? Can't remember when I last had a chance... Etsy gets me AND my daughter out in the world!

Nov. 3, 2009 at 1:04 a.m. Candies64

Congratulations Kathi!
National ALS Caregiver of the Year!

Nov. 29, 2009 at 1:57 a.m. thebugbees

It is a real tragedy. I was a full time caregiver for my father for two years after his stroke, there was no help whatsoever - his insurance, medicare, veterans assoc, or the firefighters assoc. - nobody! Even though statistics prove a person recovers faster at home, they only pay for his care if he was in a nursing home. It was a struggle, but I made sure my father was in his home, and today he is again independent, that never would have happened in a nursing home. I wish more people knew about this terrible truth. Thank you for talking about it.

Dec. 2, 2009 at 11:05 a.m. poprelique

Kathi, congratulations on raising $250,000. That is an amazing feat. Thank you so much for sharing with us. My mother is my father's caregiver as well, (both of his legs have been amputated from mid-calf down), I know of the struggles caregivers face, and they're the last ones to deserve such obstacles. Even little things like the task questionnaire they have to fill out is ridiculous and demeaning.

Thanks again and great job!!!!

-Rita

Dec. 4, 2009 at 12:10 a.m. pamwardenart

I am also the Caregiver of my husband, a former firefighter who contracted lung disease. He received a transplant at UW Madison 4 years ago. Really the only way we live is by my art now. He has ongoing infections and has had 6 rejections. Sadly, as noted in Kathi's wonderful article, we also have noted that we would be better off financially if we were divorced. But like this couple refuse. We thank God for each day and for our friends on etsy too.
Blessings,
Pam

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