Jim Bulger: Husband Caregiver to His Wife Nancy

In 1996, Jim Bulger's wife Nancy was diagnosed with Diffuse Large B-Cell lymphoma. She went into remission after six months of chemo. But over two decades later, in 2017, Nancy received another diagnosis: follicular lymphoma. A later diagnosis showed that this had transformed into Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma once again. One of Jim's roles as a caregiver was to run "interference" - to field calls and other correspondence from friends and family, so Nancy didn't have to keep re-telling the same stories over and over. Jim was also Nancy's advocate with her medical team, tracking every appointment, prescription, treatment, and more. Jim will talk about letting others help and show their love and kindness--something caregivers sometimes struggle with. Another key was finding a balance between restriction and freedom as Nancy navigated this journey and slowly built her strength back up. Jim also promised himself that there would be laughter. No matter what, he'd make his Nancy laugh every day. Wait until you hear the story of the meditation CD! Jim shares what their new normal was like--no predicability, no days off, the significance of the "pause button" and the importance of doing what you need to do now so that you can do what you want to do later. Two other nuggets--celebrate the milestones--no matter how small--and find your "North Star. "The information in this podcast should not be construed as medical advice. Please consult with your health care provider regarding your medical decisions and treatment. The listed resources are not intended to be endorsements.For more from the National Bone Marrow Transplant Link, visit us online at nbmtlink.org or call us at 800-546-5268.This season of Marrow Masters is sponsored by the nbmtLINK, Incyte Corporation and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.nbmtLINK website: https://www.nbmtlink.org/The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society: https://www.lls.org/ National Bone Marrow Transplant Link - (800) LINK-BMT, or (800) 546-5268.nbmtLINK Website: https://www.nbmtlink.org/Check out our valued nbmtLINK resource books, some for sale, some free as downloadable, https://www.nbmtlink.org/shop/nbmtLINK Facebook Page:  https://www.facebook.com/nbmtLINKFollow the nbmtLINK on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/nbmtlink/The nbmtLINK YouTube Page can be found by clicking here.This content is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.  It is crucial to consult directly with a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical conditions, treatment options, or other health concerns.The views and opinions expressed by the speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the nbmtLINK.  Unless otherwise stated in an official policy, the nbmtLINK does not endorse any specific treatments, products, or services mentioned by the speakers. Reliance on any information provided is solely at your own risk.The Marrow Masters Podcast is produced by JAG Podcast Productions: https://jagpodcastproductions.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.