Lifeboats from Far Away
A Long-Distance Daughter's Story of Dementia, Family, and Love
What happens when the person who always knew what came next begins to lose her way?
Lifeboats from Far Away is the story of a daughter navigating dementia, distance, family, and love while caring for her mother from more than a thousand miles away. Through humor, heartbreak, difficult decisions, and unexpected moments of grace, Donna M. Bergman shares the reality of long-distance caregiving and the lessons learned while watching a beloved parent disappear in pieces.
This memoir is for anyone who has loved an aging parent, struggled with impossible choices, or searched for hope in the middle of uncertainty.
Even if you cannot change the destination, look for the lifeboats. No matter the distance, keep showing up and savor the moments.
Donna M. Bergman
About the Book
For years, Donna Bergman helped people navigate complex healthcare systems. Nothing prepared her for navigating dementia with her own mother.
As her mother's condition progressed, Donna faced challenges familiar to millions of caregivers: balancing advocacy with autonomy, making difficult decisions from a distance, and learning that love alone cannot stop the passage of time.
Part memoir and part reflection on caregiving, Lifeboats from Far Away explores what it means to support those we love while accepting what we cannot control.
Who Should Read This Book?
Readers caring for aging parents
The journey of caregiving can feel isolating. This book reminds readers they are not alone.
Families affected by dementia
An honest account of the challenges, grief, resilience, and unexpected moments of connection that accompany dementia.
Long-distance care givers
A deeply personal look at the unique challenges of caring for a loved one from hundreds or thousands of miles away.
Healthcare professionals
An uncommon view from someone who navigated dementia as both a healthcare executive and a daughter.
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Questions about the book, speaking opportunities, or future writing projects?
Themes Explored
Dementia and memory loss
Long-distance caregiving
Family relationships
Advocacy and decision-making
Grief and resilience
Love across generations
Hope in uncertainty