Caregiver Support Group
ATTENTION CAREGIVERS -- Edgerton Hospital is hosting a caregiver support group (called Caregiver Connections) for caregivers, by caregivers, with caregivers, thanks to our social worker, Raquel Martin, & Bristol Hospice L.L.C. Community Liaison, Karen Borowski. Meetings will be held bi-weekly (every other week), at Edgerton Hospital, and snacks and refreshments will be provided. The first meeting is Tuesday, January 28th at 6pm.
Caregiver Connections is open to any and all caregivers providing care for those with a progressive disease.
For more information about Caregiver Connections, call Raquel at 608-884-1490.
More about the founders of Caregiver Connections:
Raquel Martin, APSW (Edgerton Hospital Social Worker) - Raquel Martin is a compassionate and dedicated professional who holds a master's degree in social work with an emphasis in clinical mental health, human services and health care. She has extensive experience in both hospice care, healthcare and the geriatric population. Having worked closely with families and patients in both hospice care and in her current role as social worker at Edgerton Hospital, Raquel is skilled in providing emotional support, coping strategies, and resources to help caregivers manage stress and build resilience. Raquels passion for starting a caregiver support group came from watching her father-in-law be diagnosed with dementia at the age of 58 and living with it until he passed at 66. During this time, there were no local support groups for his wife, children and family to attend or resources to connect them to others in similar situations.
With a deep understanding of the emotional and physical challenges caregivers face due to her professional and person experience, Raquel plans to facilitate a caregiver support group with empathy, expertise, and a commitment to providing a safe, supportive space for individuals navigating the complexities of caregiving. Raquel's approach is grounded in person-centered care, with a focus on empowering caregivers to maintain their well-being while supporting their loved ones. She plans to always strive to foster a sense of community and hope within the group. Most importantly, Raquel is committed to helping caregivers feel understood, supported, and equipped with the tools they need to thrive.
Karen Borowski (Caregiver Support Group Facilitator & Hospice Professional) - Karen Borowski has been deeply involved in healthcare since 2011, bringing both personal and professional experience to her role as a caregiver support advocate. As the primary caregiver for her husband, who has multiple sclerosis (MS), Karen understands the challenges and rewards of providing long-term care for a loved one. This hands-on experience has given her a unique perspective on the emotional, physical, and psychological aspects of caregiving.
In addition to her caregiving role, Karen works in hospice care, where she applies her knowledge and passion for providing compassionate, patient-centered care. Her experience in the hospice field has further deepened her understanding of the importance of support systems for caregivers, and she is committed to helping others navigate their caregiving journeys with empathy and practical advice.
Karen’s goal in facilitating caregiver support groups is to create a safe space where individuals can share their experiences, find resources, and gain strength from one another. Her combination of personal caregiving experience and professional healthcare background makes her a valuable resource for those seeking guidance and connection in their own caregiving roles.