40 - Memory, Memoir, and Meaning: Maureen Stanton on Caregiving and "The Murmur of Everything Moving"

For Those Who Care

Send us a text

In this moving episode, RuthAnn sits down with acclaimed memoirist Maureen Stanton to discuss her latest book, "The Murmur of Everything Moving". Maureen opens up about her deeply personal journey as a caregiver for her partner Steve during his battle with cancer, a story she chronicles with honesty and grace in her new memoir. She reflects on the challenges and transformations that come with caring for a loved one facing a life-threatening illness, and how those experiences shaped her understanding of love, loss, and resilience.
Maureen also shares how her role as a caregiver has evolved over the years, drawing poignant parallels between her young adulthood caring for Steve and her present-day experience supporting her mother through Alzheimer’s. The conversation delves into the emotional complexities of grief, the ongoing process of healing, and how writing can serve as both a refuge and a tool for making sense of life’s most difficult moments.
As a creative writing professor, Maureen offers invaluable advice for anyone considering writing their own memoir. She discusses the vulnerability required to tell your story, practical tips for centering yourself during the writing process, and resources for those who want to share their life stories but may not know where to begin. With warmth and encouragement, Maureen guides listeners through the steps of crafting and publishing a memoir, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and connection.
Whether you are a caregiver, a writer, or someone seeking to understand the complexities of devotion in the face of adversity, this episode offers insight, support, and inspiration. Maureen’s hope is that caregivers see themselves reflected in her story, and that others gain a deeper appreciation for the courage and compassion required to care for those we love most.
Key Moments in This Episode:
[00:00:58] Maureen shares a little about herself and what led her to become a writer
[00:06:20] Has writing and sharing your story changed the way you look back on your life?
[00:10:36] What distinguishes a powerful memoir from other forms of storytelling?
[00:12:40] Maureen shares her writing process and talks about vulnerability in sharing such a personal story
[00:17:24] How Maureen organized and structured her book as she was writing it
[00:23:03] How life and relationships change after a cancer diagnosis, understanding for other caregivers, and advice on supporting family and friends through difficult times
[00:31:18] Grief after Steve died
[00:32:47] Looking back: Does Maureen ever ask herself how she did it?
[00:36:11] The part of her book Maureen wasn't sure she should include
[00:40:10] Maureen and RuthAnn briefly discuss hospice and their experiences
[00:44:18] How caring for someone at the end of their life transforms you
[00:45:29] Tips on writing your own memoir and the process of publishing a book
[00:52:42] Life lessons: Advice Maureen would give her younger self as a caregiver
[00:55:24] Where to find "The Murmur of Everything Moving" by Maureen Stanton