For more than four decades, Leora and her husband Ron built a long-lasting partnership filled with adventure and a deep devotion to one another. What began as a chance encounter on a Sierra Club hike grew into years of exploration, including backpacking across desert and mountain terrain, venturing into remote regions of Baja California, and embracing travel and nature wherever it led them.

When Ron’s health began to decline, Leora stepped naturally into the role of caregiver. Over time, that role grew into full-time, around-the-clock care. Ron faced multiple health challenges, and Leora managed everything, including medical appointments, medications, meals, household chores and the emotional weight of caring for a loved one.

“When do you get a break?” a social worker asked her. This simple question made Leora realize for the very first time all the weight she had been carrying alone, and how little space she allowed for herself and her own needs.

The social worker connected her with Providence St. Jude’s Caregiver Resource Center Orange County, a place Leora had unknowingly lived just minutes from for years. The non-profit center provides free services for family caregivers throughout Orange County, and there are no insurance or income requirements. Services include information and referrals, family consultants, case management, individual counseling, caregiver support groups, educational workshops, respite care grants, assistance navigating complex care systems.

One of the most impactful services for Leora was respite care, in-home support from a trusted professional to assist with Ron’s care. For the first time, Leora was able to take time for herself – to rest and recharge. Even after her husband’s passing, the Caregiver Resource Center continued to support Leora through a specialized transitions group for former caregivers navigating grief and life after loss.

Grateful for the care and support she received during the most challenging years of her life, Leora has chosen to give back in a meaningful and lasting way. In her estate plans, Leora has made a generous gift in support of the Caregiver Resource Center. Through her act of philanthropy, Leora will help sustain critical services and ensure that future caregivers, like herself, will be met with compassion, understanding, and the reassurance that they do not have to face this journey alone.

If you or someone you care for may benefit from caregiver support, visit www.caregiveroc.org to learn more about the services offered by the Caregiver Resource Center.

To learn more about how you can leave a legacy through planned giving and join others like Leora who are shaping the future of care at Providence St. Jude, please contact Frank Bernal at frank.bernal@providence.org.