Valerie is a retired Psychology Professor specializing in Lifespan Development. Her caregiving journey began in 2007 when her husband, George, suffered a hemorrhagic stroke in his midbrain at age 58, resulting in full disability. With intensive physical therapy, he regained mobility using a cane, but sustained lasting cognitive, emotional, and perceptual damage. In 2017, George was diagnosed with vascular dementia—a condition Valerie later learned is more likely in individuals who’ve had midbrain hemorrhagic strokes.
As his dementia progressed and other chronic conditions emerged, caregiving became increasingly difficult. In 2022, Valerie joined a HOPE Dementia Support Group for guidance, community, and to better navigate the challenges ahead. While her academic background offered insight, she found that lived experience is the true teacher.
By early 2025, George moved into an Adult Family Home in Vancouver, where Valerie visits daily. That same year, she became a volunteer Group Facilitator with HOPE, grateful for the chance to support others walking the same deeply personal path.