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The time has come to tell my story and to open my heart. Its been a crazy four years with my parents care. I have learned so much. I have learned about senior living and I have learned about myself. I never knew the true definition of care. I now truly know what the word care means. I could never have imagined deep love. I have loved before. Not like this, love is a deep well that never ends and always there is the light shining through. The smile, the laugh, the touch, the wink, the hand held tightly, fingers wrapped and never letting go. It is the unspoken thanks you-s and the tears behind the fears. It is the angels that surround you and the breath, and the kiss that seem like the first kiss and the last kiss at the very same time. It's appreciating each moment, each second, each day, each sunset, each nightfall, each song, each memory in a brand new way. It is life appreciated and a life of gratitude that we are together. I have stepped outside myself for this journey, I actually stepped away from my life, yet I dove in without question, inside this world I never knew called parents and child love. It has been extraordinary and many of you have been by my side for the ride. Thank you.

So many days and nights I would talk to myself inside my head, questions, no answers, no one to talk to, no where to turn. My Dad's Cancer, my uncle's Parkinson's, my mom's Alzheimer's and her stroke, the uphill battle to keep them together, the journey thru home health and hospice, hospitals and assisted living, caregivers and therapists, doctors and heroes. My friends that sang to my parents, those that came by to say hello, those that sat in the hospital next to me, and said close your eyes, rest, I've got this and knew when I was ready to fall. Each mountain; insurance, Medicare, long term health, feeding tubes, oxygen, wheelchairs and walkers, medical supplies, transportation and days to just cherish another milestone - birthday, anniversary, and new year.

Lately I have been compelled to share. I'm heading back on the radio. To create a podcast for other me-s. Other children my age whose parents are aging and need help. I wish someone, anyone would have given me some direction or help. I have been my own compass and guide. If I can help even one person not have the tears I shed, or the sleepless nights, and the fears I endured, then I have gifted my journey and shared that little light. I now want to share what I've learned and open doors and ease hearts in anyway that I can. It's an extraordinary journey. This thing called Life.

My new Podcast "The Caring Compass" The Aging Parent's Survival Guide, will launch next week. If you would like to be a sponsor, or a guest please reach out to me directly. If you are on this journey and you have a question, feel free to reach out. Anything that I can share or anyway that I can help, I have reached the top of the mountain and I can say, this is how you climb.

For those looking for miracles, my mom is back with my Dad. Yes, I moved her in on Wednesday. She fought her way back to him. (For those that remember; two years ago she spent months in the hospital - unable to move, walk, or to talk) she was in limbo and we would talk to her and whisper in her ear trusting she was inside. Her love for my dad brought her home. This week, the miracle, Now she has returned. She’s walking, and talking, laughing, and hugging, and she can tell you she loves you. That’s the power my parents have together. When she came through the door, she kept saying; Oh God! Thank You! Thank You! Thank You! Oh God! Thank You! There wasn't a dry eye in the house, the entire facility was crying happy tears. It is a path, it is a journey, it is one step and then the next. Hold my hand and I will walk with you. Steady and together we will stand. See the light, it's there, ….just one step forward. Yes! …. and together we will walk towards love.

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"It is with pride and pleasure that I submit this letter of endorsement for Nicole Brandon. For more than two years I have witnessed her demonstration of caring, dedication, commitment and advocacy for her parents' geriatric increasing needs and care, as well as for their peers, at two seperate assisted-living communities.

Nicole would be an asset to any entity fortunate to gain her employ."

Rochelle S. Stephens, Reitired Executive Director of Public Houstin Authority.

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"I have had the opportunity to witness Nicole in her role as a caregiver to her parents over the past two years, and her commitment to their well-being has been nothing short of extraordinary. She has made significant personal sacrifices, including putting her professional speaking and travel on hold, in order to be fully present for their care. These sacrifices have come at great personal, financial, emotional, and physical cost.

Despite the strain, Nicole continues to show up for her parents with unwavering dedication. She routinely cancels appointments, business opportunities, and social engagements at a moment’s notice to drive the seven hours from Prescott, Arizona—where she lives part-time—to Newport Beach to attend medical appointments, coordinate insurance matters, hire and supervise caregivers, manage household and medical bills, and advance funds when payments were delayed or interrupted. She has also spent countless hours advocating for her parents on the phone with doctors, providers, and insurance companies.

As a caregiver myself, I recognize the level of responsibility and emotional endurance this requires. Nicole has gone far beyond what is expected to ensure her parents receive the highest possible standard of care. Her devotion, integrity, and selflessness are unmistakable, and I am proud to offer my full support and testimony on her behalf."

Claudia Hartman

*****

"To Whom It I am in awe of Nicole’s ability to care so deeply for her parents, she literally changed her mother’s prognosis.  When I initially observed her mother, she had no sitting balance and was dependent on her aide for all self-care.  Through Nicole’s guidance the treatment team continued to pursue goals that seemed unreachable.  As a result, her mother is fully ambulatory and able to assist in all self-care and feeding herself. I have never seen so much progress as an OT for over forty years!

Nicole is simply amazing at encouraging her mother’s treatment team in all aspects and her mother’s progress is the result."

Kim Binder, Occupational Therapist

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"I am writing to recommend Nicole Brandon to host a radio show in senior care, or in any space in the senior community.

Nicole is a great example of someone who is compassionate, caring, and dedicated.

You will find Nicole to be someone who not only is dedicated to any role she is given, but she displays professionalism, passion, and true selflessness.

We had the opportunity to work together when I held a Walk to End Alzheimer's event last October. Nicole was eager to help and so kind throughout the process. As our Keynote Speaker Nicole made an impact with those attending by her heartfelt personal connection to Alzheimer's. Her profound commitment to her parent’s care was inspirational to others especially to those who are facing similar challenges, life changes, and triumphs.

I am honored to know Nicole and all that she brings to our community in so many ways. This is evident in public speaking, supporting others, or just being a great example of being a kind individual."

Malena Peraza, Community Engagement Coordinator

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"I am writing to offer my recommendation for Nicole. As her father’s physical therapist, I have had the opportunity to work closely with her and to witness firsthand the dedication and advocacy she brings to every aspect of his care.

Nicole is proactive and persistent in coordinating her father’s medical needs. She advocates on his behalf. She is determined when navigating through insurance issues. Which, anyone who has dealt with insurance companies knows how necessary that trait is to get anything done. Her determination and follow-through have made a meaningful difference in his access to services and overall quality of care.

Beyond medical coordination, Nicole ensures that her father’s daily needs are consistently met. She oversees his caregiving support, maintains his schedule, and remains closely involved in his social and emotional well-being. Her approach is thoughtful, organized, and compassionate, reflecting a holistic understanding of what quality elder care truly entails."

Maria Valencia PT, DPT, Clinic Director

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"I've had the pleasure of knowing Nicole Brandon for over a decade. Year after year, I have watched her walk through the clinic doors, expertly navigating the complexities of caring for her aging parents. Her level of patience and empathy is truly admirable. In a world that often moves too fast for our seniors, Nicole is the person who slows down.

In our clinic, Nicole is more than just a daughter. She is her parents' fiercest advocate who ensures her parents are never overlooked or unheard. Whether she is meticulously managing their medications or providing a gentle word of comfort, she does it all with grace.

Nicole is the embodiment of what it means to honor our elders. Her reliability is the bedrock of her family's well-being. Nicole is a beautiful exan1ple of selfless care. I am honored to recommend her for this recognition and her dedication deserves to be celebrated. Thank you for your consideration. Please do not hesitate to contact me."

Gregg Feinerman, M.D. F.A.C.S.

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"On Behalf of Coastal Heights Senior Living Community, I would like to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation for the exceptional care, compassion, and dedication that Nicole Brandon consistently shows towards her aging mother and father within our community.

It is evident that in every interaction that she surrounds them with genuine care, and unwavering support, and deep love. As an adult daughter, the responsibility of caring for an agin parent can carry significant emotional and personal weight. It is a role that often requires strength, patience, and selflessness, and she embodies these qualities with grace.

While this journey can be challenging, having the support of a compassionate community and devoting varegivers helps ease that burden. Her partnership withour team allows her mother to feel safe, valued, and truly at home, while also offering the peace of mind that comes from knowing she is surrounded by people who care deeply about her well-being.

We are honored to be part of this journey with Nicole and are grateful for the trust she places in our community. Her devotion does not go unnoticed, and it is a privilege to witness the love and advocacy you provide each and every day."

Catherine Ratelle, Executive Director, Coastal Heights Senior Living

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