Testimonials

“The following is a segment of the review: “With a voice of a friend, Merienne shares lessons learned from caring for her father. Tough…Tough Times…Tough Decisions: Easing the transition to aged care for all the family, by Rita Merienne, helps families, particularly adult children, make a healthy transition for elderly members. This Topic is powerful and relevant. The elderly population is growing, and care options are expanding. It’s a trying, important time that almost no one feels prepared for. With the voice of a friend, Merienne shares lessons learned from caring for her father. The book provides straightforward wisdom on fundamental topics such as adapting to new roles, caring for loved ones who are for away, grief (even before a death), establishing a new normal, and dealing with guilt and frustration. In all these topics, Merienne’s goal is to equip caregivers with the knowledge and skills to make an emotionally healthy as well as physically healthy transition for their loved ones.”

“Thank you for the taking the time to write such a great book”

“Not only helpful, Tough…Tough Times…Tough Decisions is an incredible resource. Rita and her family’s experience is a beacon to all of us struggling through difficult times. A must read for those going through the transition to aged care.”

“I can relate so much to Rita’s thoughts and feelings. Very inspirational. I have found myself repeating her affirmations to myself each day and they seem to be helping. Probably still have a long way to go, but is refreshing to know that I am not alone in the way that I feel. You sometimes think you are the only one in the world feeling the way you do, so this has been very helpful in the fact that I am not exaggerating my feelings or emotions. Once again, thank you so much. I will re-read the book again to take in any other things I may have missed instead of just relating immediately to how I feel.”

“The book was great – can I get another copy for my sister. Lots of things I didn’t realise.”

“Things have settled down a little bit now, it’s crazy how when things first happen, we tend to panic like a fish out of water.. Unfamiliar territory.. It’s a scary place when you first visit! Thank you for your speedy replies and for your help and info you provided. I thank God for you and your website. Thanks again.”

“Have finished reading your wonderful, insightful and very personal book .. every situation is different but many of the issues raised helps us all consider issues sooner which makes everyone’s life easier Loved stuff on boundaries, personalised self-care, one family member speaking to Care Centre Manager, doing what’s right for your family/reject others judgement, acceptance of best situation (not perfection), change/realising our parent may NEVER be happy, can’t do it all/burnout, seeking support from psychologists, your sister’s viewpoint etc.”