MARTIN J. SCHREIBER: My Two Elaines: Learning, Coping, and Surviving as an Alzheimer’s Caregiver

Love Conquers Alz

What better way to celebrate our 100th episode than with an interview that truly reflects the definition and the title of our show: Love Conquers Alz. Former Wisconsin Gov. Martin J. Schreiber is an award-winning crusader for Alzheimer's caregivers and persons with dementia and author of the best selling novel, My Two Elaines: Learning, Coping, and Surviving as an Alzheimer’s Caregiver.
Since 2016, Marty has been campaigning unlike anything he experienced while in office. Rather than seeking votes, Marty now works to recognize and support Alzheimer’s caregivers – an unpaid workforce that now exceeds 16 million people nationwide. Schreiber's goal for caregivers (whom he calls heroes) is that they learn, cope, survive and even thrive during their difficult journey. All things that Marty learned caring for his beloved wife, Elaine.
Imagine your spouse falling in love with you over and over again. Romantic, right? But what if they kept falling in love with you because every morning they woke up they’d forget who you were? The love story of Marty and his wife Elaine that began in the 1950s when they were high school freshmen began to take the cruelest of twists when Elaine, diagnosed with Alzheimer's, gradually transformed from the woman who had gracefully entertained in the Executive Residence to one who sometimes no longer recognized Marty as her husband. Yet, the two still found moments of joy which Marty lovingly talks about in his acclaimed My Two Elaines.
We share insights from "My Two Elaines," a poignant memoir that highlights the emotional journey from partner to caregiver, offering practical advice on therapeutic fibbing and redirection. The episode underscores the importance of male caregivers seeking help and stepping away from outdated stereotypes, as we discuss the necessity of systemic reform in care facilities.

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Chapters

1. Fighting Alzheimer's With Love and ROAR (00:00:00)

2. Caregiving Challenges and Solutions (00:08:57)

3. Navigating Alzheimer's as a Spouse (00:23:06)

4. Self-Care and Coping With Alzheimer's (00:32:05)

5. Continuous Grieving Through Alzheimer's (00:46:39)

6. Building Support for Caregivers (00:52:10)

7. Innovative Dementia Care Solutions (01:07:17)