As we conclude our series on the extraordinary life of President Jimmy Carter, I want to reflect on his final chapter—a journey through hospice care that was marked by grace, dignity, and love.
When President Carter entered hospice in February 2023, it was a decision that spoke volumes about his character. True to form, he approached end-of-life care as he did everything else: with thoughtfulness and humility. For nearly a year, he remained in the care of his loved ones, supported by a compassionate hospice team that honored his wishes to remain at home.
Hospice care is often misunderstood, but President Carter’s experience highlighted its profound value. It’s not about giving up; it’s about creating a space where life’s final moments can be meaningful and peaceful. With hospice, President Carter was able to spend time with Rosalynn, his family, and close friends—sharing stories, reminiscing, and simply being present.
As caregivers, many of us have walked this road ourselves. It’s never easy, but it’s also a time of connection and reflection that can leave lasting memories. President Carter’s hospice journey reminds us to approach these moments with an open heart, focusing on the quality of life rather than the length of time left.
The Carter family’s decision to be transparent about his care also opened the door for important conversations about end-of-life planning. It’s a reminder for all of us to have those discussions early, ensuring that our loved ones’ wishes are honored.
President Jimmy Carter’s legacy isn’t just in the policies he created or the homes he built—it’s also in the example he set for living and dying with purpose. His life was a testament to the power of love, service, and faith.
As we say goodbye, let’s carry his lessons with us: to serve others, to love deeply, and to approach caregiving with the same compassion he showed in every aspect of his life. Thank you for joining me for this series. I’m here to support you in your caregiving journey, just as President Jimmy Carter inspired us to support one another. Book a consultation with me at the link.
Subscribe to The Caregiver Cafe Weekly Newsletter!
Caregiving can be a roller coaster of ups and downs. The information that you will receive from The Caregiver Cafe Weekly Specials Newsletter will support you as a caregiver. Remember…
1. YOU ARE NOT ALONE: The problems you face as a caregiver are experienced by other caregivers. Knowing that you’re not alone can be comforting.
2. Tools and Resources: Find caregiver stress management tools and gain perspective from other caregiver’s experiences.
3. LEARN TO: Ask for help, accept help when it is offered, and acknowledge yourself on this caregiving journey. Hear from experts on how to balance caregiving responsibilities by taking care of your needs and involving others to help manage the natural stress and isolation of being a caregiver.
When I think about President Jimmy Carter and Rosalynn Carter, I’m reminded of the true meaning of partnership. Together, they spent decades not just as husband and wife, but as advocates for one of the most vital and often overlooked roles in society—caregiving.
As caregivers, we know the challenges that come with supporting our loved ones. It’s not just about tending to physical needs but also about creating an environment of dignity and compassion. That’s what the Carters worked tirelessly to promote through the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers (RCI).
Founded in 1987, RCI became a beacon of hope and advocacy for caregivers. Rosalynn, with President Jimmy Carter always by her side, championed the importance of providing resources, training, and emotional support for those caring for aging loved ones, individuals with disabilities, or those facing chronic illness.
The Carters believed caregiving was not just a personal responsibility but a societal one. Through their work, they raised awareness of the emotional and financial toll caregiving takes, while also pushing for systemic changes to support caregivers.
What stands out most to me is how they lived what they preached. Even in their later years, as Rosalynn began facing her own health challenges, President Jimmy Carter became her advocate and caregiver, embodying the same values they had championed for decades.
Their story resonates deeply with those of us in The Caregiver Cafe community. Whether you’re caring for a parent, spouse, or friend, the Carters remind us that caregiving is an act of love, one that has the power to transform both the giver and the receiver.
As we move toward the conclusion of this series, we’ll reflect on President Jimmy Carter’s graceful transition through hospice care and the lessons we can learn from his journey. Stay tuned for the final blog of the Memories and Milestones of President Jimmy Carter series, where we’ll explore the role of hospice in his life and what it can teach us about end-of-life care.
Subscribe to The Caregiver Cafe Weekly Newsletter!
Caregiving can be a roller coaster of ups and downs. The information that you will receive from The Caregiver Cafe Weekly Specials Newsletter will support you as a caregiver. Remember…
1. YOU ARE NOT ALONE: The problems you face as a caregiver are experienced by other caregivers. Knowing that you’re not alone can be comforting.
2. Tools and Resources: Find caregiver stress management tools and gain perspective from other caregiver’s experiences.
3. LEARN TO: Ask for help, accept help when it is offered, and acknowledge yourself on this caregiving journey. Hear from experts on how to balance caregiving responsibilities by taking care of your needs and involving others to help manage the natural stress and isolation of being a caregiver.
After leaving the White House, President Jimmy Carter could have chosen a quiet retirement. But instead, he rolled up his sleeves—literally—and dedicated the next chapter of his life to serving others in a deeply personal and hands-on way.
When I think about his work with Habitat for Humanity, I’m reminded of how caregiving often calls us to action in the same way. It’s about stepping up, no matter how big or small the task, and giving with your whole heart. That’s exactly what Carter did.
Habitat for Humanity became a natural extension of his values: faith, humility, and service. For decades, President Carter and his wife Rosalynn worked tirelessly to build and restore homes, traveling across the U.S. and even internationally. Together, they helped provide safe and affordable housing to those in need, putting their beliefs into action.
I remember watching news segments showing President Jimmy Carter, hammer in hand, wearing a hard hat and flashing his warm, familiar smile. He wasn’t just a figurehead for the organization—he was actively on the ground, building homes and forging connections.
President Carter’s involvement also helped bring global attention to the housing crisis. Thanks to his efforts, Habitat for Humanity became a household name, inspiring countless volunteers and donors to join the cause.
As caregivers, many of us know the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment. President Carter’s work reminds us that the spaces we live in can deeply affect our well-being. His dedication to helping others find a place to call home reflects the same compassion we strive to bring into the lives of our loved ones.
Next, we’ll explore the incredible partnership President Jimmy Carter and Rosalynn shared, particularly their work as advocates for caregiving. Their commitment to each other and to caregiving is an inspiration for us all.Join me for the next blog in the Memories and Milestones of President Jimmy Carter series as we celebrate his advocacy for caregiving alongside Rosalynn Carter.
Subscribe to The Caregiver Cafe Weekly Newsletter!
Caregiving can be a roller coaster of ups and downs. The information that you will receive from The Caregiver Cafe Weekly Specials Newsletter will support you as a caregiver. Remember…
1. YOU ARE NOT ALONE: The problems you face as a caregiver are experienced by other caregivers. Knowing that you’re not alone can be comforting.
2. Tools and Resources: Find caregiver stress management tools and gain perspective from other caregiver’s experiences.
3. LEARN TO: Ask for help, accept help when it is offered, and acknowledge yourself on this caregiving journey. Hear from experts on how to balance caregiving responsibilities by taking care of your needs and involving others to help manage the natural stress and isolation of being a caregiver.
As we continue to honor President Jimmy Carter’s life and legacy, we turn our focus to the time when he led our nation from the Oval Office. His presidency may have been a single term, but his impact during those four years still resonated over decades..
I was struck by how President Carter, a humble man from rural Georgia, approached the presidency with an unshakable moral compass. He prioritized people and principles over politics, and his leadership laid the foundation for lasting change.
One of President Carter’s most notable achievements was the establishment of the Department of Energy in 1977. Long before renewable energy became a global priority, President Carter recognized the need for energy conservation and sustainability. I remember seeing images of him installing solar panels on the White House roof—a bold and forward-thinking act that underscored his commitment to the environment.
He also championed human rights, making them a cornerstone of his foreign policy. From brokering the Camp David Accords to his efforts for peace in the Middle East, President Carter demonstrated the power of diplomacy driven by empathy and understanding.
For us caregivers, there’s a lesson in his approach. He didn’t shy away from tough conversations or complex issues. Instead, he leaned into them with the belief that every challenge could be met with courage and care. It’s a reminder that in our roles, whether caring for a loved one or navigating a crisis, leading with heart can make all the difference.
President Carter’s presidency also had its share of challenges, but even in the face of adversity, he never wavered in his mission to serve. That’s a legacy worth remembering—not just as Americans, but as people striving to make a difference in our own spheres.
In the next post, we’ll explore how President Carter’s post-presidency work with Habitat for Humanity became another shining chapter in his life of service. Stay with me as we continue this journey of memories and milestones. Don’t miss the next blog of the Memories and Milestones of President Jimmy Carter, where I’ll dive into his incredible work building homes and hope with Habitat for Humanity. If you missed the previous blog, A Life Well Lived “His Way”, check it out now.
Subscribe to The Caregiver Cafe Weekly Newsletter!
Caregiving can be a roller coaster of ups and downs. The information that you will receive from The Caregiver Cafe Weekly Specials Newsletter will support you as a caregiver. Remember…
1. YOU ARE NOT ALONE: The problems you face as a caregiver are experienced by other caregivers. Knowing that you’re not alone can be comforting.
2. Tools and Resources: Find caregiver stress management tools and gain perspective from other caregiver’s experiences.
3. LEARN TO: Ask for help, accept help when it is offered, and acknowledge yourself on this caregiving journey. Hear from experts on how to balance caregiving responsibilities by taking care of your needs and involving others to help manage the natural stress and isolation of being a caregiver.
The holiday season is a time for family, togetherness, and making memories. But for caregivers who have lost a loved one, the holidays can also be a painful reminder of the empty seat at the table—the absence of someone who once played a central role in your traditions and celebrations. If this is your first holiday season without a beloved family member, or if you’ve experienced loss in the past months or recent years, I know that I’m having a problem struggling to balance the joy of the season with the weight of grief, as many of you may also be experiencing.
As caregivers, we often pour so much of our hearts into our loved ones, especially during the holidays. When they’re no longer with us, it can feel like a part of the holiday magic is gone, too. As I remember my mother, it’s important for me to remember that grief and love can coexist. The unique bond I had with my mother still has a place at the table this holiday season.
In today’s blog, I want to share with you some thoughtful and meaningful ways to incorporate your missing loved one into your holiday celebrations, ensuring they have a seat at the table in both your heart and your home.
1. Set a Place for Them at the Table
One of the most symbolic and simple gestures you can make is to set a place at the holiday table for your loved one. Whether it’s their favorite chair or a designated spot with a photo or special keepsake, this act honors their presence, even in their absence. The empty chair may serve as a reminder of the love you shared, and by acknowledging it, you create a space to hold them in your heart during the meal.
2. Share Stories and Memories
The holiday table isn’t just for food—it’s a place for storytelling, laughter, and shared memories. Encourage family members to share their favorite stories, jokes, or memories involving the person who’s no longer with you. Not only does this keep their memory alive, but it also provides a sense of connection and closeness. Laughter mixed with tears is part of the healing process, and this tradition can bring comfort as you celebrate the season together.
3. Create a Memory Box or Journal
To include your loved one in the festivities, consider creating a memory box or memory journal where family members can write notes, memories, or wishes to your loved one. This could be something you pass around during holiday gatherings, with each person adding their own thoughts and sentiments. You could also invite others to include something special, like a small trinket or keepsake that represents their bond with the person you’ve lost.
This memory box or journal can be something you return to year after year, adding new memories and reflections with each holiday. Over time, it becomes a beautiful record of love, remembrance, and healing.
4. Cook Their Favorite Dish or Drink
Food is often at the center of holiday gatherings, so why not honor your loved one through the dishes they loved most? Cook their favorite meal or dessert, or prepare a recipe that was passed down through generations. When everyone gathers around to enjoy the meal, it’s a small but meaningful way to bring them into the moment.
If your loved one had a signature drink or a go-to holiday treat, make sure to include that on the menu. It’s a simple yet powerful way to remember them and celebrate their role in your family’s traditions.
5. Light a Candle in Their Memory
Candles symbolize warmth, light, and remembrance. Lighting a candle in your loved one’s honor is a peaceful and reflective way to keep their memory alive during holiday celebrations. You can do this during a special moment—like before dinner or when everyone is gathered to share stories. If you want to make this tradition even more personal, consider having a candle engraved with your loved one’s name, or choose a scent that reminds you of them.
6. Volunteer or Donate in Their Name
Giving back to others is a powerful way to honor the spirit of the holidays and keep your loved one’s legacy alive. If your loved one had a cause they were passionate about, consider volunteering your time or making a donation in their name. Whether it’s helping at a food pantry, donating toys to children in need, or contributing to a charity that was close to their heart, this can be a beautiful way to carry on their generosity and compassion.
7. Make a Special Ornament or Decoration
Incorporating a physical reminder of your loved one into your holiday decorations can bring both comfort and connection. Consider making a special ornament or holiday decoration that honors their memory. This could be something as simple as creating a photo ornament with a favorite picture or crafting a decorative item that represents a special memory you shared.
Each year as you decorate your tree or home, you can add this ornament or decoration, and with it, you’ll feel that your loved one is part of your celebrations, year after year.
8. Have a Moment of Reflection
During the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it’s easy to forget to pause and reflect. Take a moment during your celebrations to sit quietly, either alone or with loved ones, and reflect on your cherished memories with the person who has passed. You might say a prayer, share a special thought, or simply enjoy the stillness as a way to honor their memory.
This time of reflection doesn’t need to be long, but it can offer a sense of peace and connection. It reminds you that even though they may not physically be present, they are always with you in spirit.
9. Start a New Tradition in Their Honor
Sometimes, creating a new tradition is a beautiful way to integrate your loved one’s memory into your life going forward. It could be as simple as watching their favorite holiday movie, visiting a place they loved, or doing something that embodies the spirit of who they were. Starting a new tradition that reflects your loved one’s personality and passions can help transform the grief into something meaningful and positive, while also keeping their memory alive.
10. Allow Yourself to Grieve
While the holiday season is a time for celebration, it’s important to acknowledge that grieving is part of the process. It’s okay to feel sad, to miss your loved one, and to allow yourself space to mourn during this time. Take care of yourself and give yourself permission to grieve, without feeling the pressure to be “joyful” or “cheerful” all the time. The holidays are about honoring your emotions, and part of that is allowing yourself to feel the sadness and the joy that come with remembering a loved one.
The holidays will never be the same without your loved one, but that doesn’t mean their memory can’t continue to live on in meaningful ways. By creating space for them at the table, sharing memories, starting new traditions, and finding ways to honor their spirit, you can celebrate the holidays while holding them in your heart.
As caregivers, it’s important to take care of ourselves, too. So, this holiday season, take the time to reflect on the love, lessons, and legacy of your loved one, and allow their presence to fill your heart, even if they are no longer physically at the table.
May your holidays be filled with both remembrance and healing.
Subscribe to The Caregiver Cafe Weekly Newsletter!
Caregiving can be a roller coaster of ups and downs. The information that you will receive from The Caregiver Cafe Weekly Specials Newsletter will support you as a caregiver. Remember…
1. YOU ARE NOT ALONE: The problems you face as a caregiver are experienced by other caregivers. Knowing that you’re not alone can be comforting.
2. Tools and Resources: Find caregiver stress management tools and gain perspective from other caregiver’s experiences.
3. LEARN TO: Ask for help, accept help when it is offered, and acknowledge yourself on this caregiving journey. Hear from experts on how to balance caregiving responsibilities by taking care of your needs and involving others to help manage the natural stress and isolation of being a caregiver.
The Caregiver Cafe 