At any time, anyone can become an unpaid caregiver when an uninsured parent loses their ability to live independently. Nine years ago, I became one of seven million Americans who hosted disabledrelatives when my mother-in-law moved in with us forever. Today there are over 45 million such caregivers, and the number is still growing. After an injury, illness or dementia onset, the elderly learn how expensive assistance is. And when insurance won't pay for it, they turn to their adult children for help.

Most unpaid caregivers in my situation survive by brute force of will in an intolerable situation which they face each day like a recurring nightmare. It doesn't have to be that way. I've learned that it takes a sense of humor to make this challenge endurable. Except when I'm justifiably homicidal, I enjoy the process. Life has a twisted sense of humor, and I am often a target of its jokes. Still, if done correctly, unpaid caregiving is the most fulfilling work a person can do.

This is my story, and for many of you out there, this may be your story also. We are not alone in these situations and I believe that each and every one of us can make the world a better place for ourselves and our loved ones. The purpose of this website is to convey my experiences as an unpaid caregiver and maybe give some comfort to those in similar situations.