Marco has had Type 1 Diabetes for over 35 years, and he was diagnosed with Parkinsonism and Lewy Body Dementia five years ago. Odette organizes and provides 24×7 care. “He can do very little for himself due to mobility and strength issues, and mild cognitive impairment from the Parkinson’s disease,” explained Odette.
Odette and Marco have two children and have been married for 45 years. Odette had a long career in government while Marco was an educator, before becoming a clergyman. His clergy work took them to Europe for a few years, but because of his failing health, they returned home.
The support structure they had in Europe compared to California was far different. It has been hard to rebuild their community, partially because Marco’s health. Their experience living abroad also reshaped their expectations about the importance of community.
Odette’s caregiving philosophy includes seeking the support of paid and unpaid caregivers often. To do this, they need to have an income and this is why they have filled their house with paying tenants.
Marco has had Type 1 Diabetes for over 35 years, and he was diagnosed with Parkinsonism and Lewy Body Dementia five years ago. Odette organizes and provides 24×7 care. “He can do very little for himself due to mobility and strength issues, and mild cognitive impairment from the Parkinson’s disease,” explained Odette.
Odette and Marco have two children and have been married for 45 years. Odette had a long career in government while Marco was an educator, before becoming a clergyman. His clergy work took them to Europe for a few years, but because of his failing health, they returned home.
The support structure they had in Europe compared to California was far different. It has been hard to rebuild their community, partially because Marco’s health. Their experience living abroad also reshaped their expectations about the importance of community.
Odette’s caregiving philosophy includes seeking the support of paid and unpaid caregivers often. To do this, they need to have an income and this is why they have filled their house with paying tenants.
