Hey Everyone, Micah here!

I met Ashley in the fall of 2019 when we were both working for The Walt Disney Company. We connected pretty much immediately, as we both had a lot of similarities. We both studied anthropology, we both love Disney, and we both have a strong desire of helping other people. Ashley and I often talked about what our plans have been, her plans for immigration law and myself with wanting to eventually make my way into the Nonprofit sector. Life has a way of changing things around but we have stayed connected despite life taking us on different paths. Obviously, when she asked me to assist with starting a Nonprofit, it was a no-brainer.

My connection to The Janice Hart Foundation runs fairly deep. I have watched multiple family members, myself included, step into the role of a caregiver at some point or another, in a range of aspects from temporary to full-time. Several years ago, my grandma took care of my grandpa until he was placed in hospice. She visited him daily until his passing, all while her own health was greatly declining. Most recently my father left his job to care for my Oma (my other grandmother), full-time, for over a year. I watched my dad struggle first, with the loss of income and then returning to work after she passed, all while still trying to grieve the loss of a loved one.

I felt like when I was younger family was suppose to watch over their loved ones. As I grew older, I realized it was because of shortfalls of provided care available. The cost to have people come in to care for someone can be astronomical and at times can be more cost effective for family to step in and do the care themselves. So, while family steps up, they then let taking care of themselves fall to the wayside. Mental health issues become more prevalent because they cannot always get the help they need while caring for their loved one. Some caregivers even begin to miss doctor’s appointments and elective healthcare because they don’t have access to people who can help them.

Caregivers need assistance and support and The Janice Hart Foundation is here to bridge the gap. I look forward to the future and growth of the organization and hope you follow along the journey!

Hiii it’s Jillian!!

Ashley and I met last year at Saint Leo University, where I was her student assistant. Ashley and I hit it off right away, and I could tell she had a kind heart. When she approached me with her plan, I was thrilled that she wanted me to be a part of it.

I have a lot of respect for caretakers because I used to be one for my mother. I went through all of the highs and lows that come with being a caregiver. Having to watch my loved one be in so much pain was the most difficult part of caretaking for me.

I have a lot of respect for caretakers because I used to be one for my mother. I went through all of the highs and lows that come with being a caregiver. Having to watch my loved one be in so much pain was the most difficult part of caretaking for me. It felt like I was never doing enough for my loved one and that made me feel terrible. I was only 20 when I had to take care of my loved one and I knew nothing about caregiving. I felt like I was never good enough and that caused me to feel very overwhelmed.

I was confused as to why God had allowed me to experience such suffering, but with time and with the help of others, I realized that it was for my own benefit. This experience was to make me stronger, give me knowledge, and It made me gain so much no confidence in myself. I believe that if I had had a community to lean on during this experience, it would have been much easier on my brain.

I struggled with taking care of my own needs and at times felt like I needed a break. I didn’t want to talk to my friends about what I was going through mentally and I think that made my brain feel worse. I believe that if I had had a community to lean on during this experience, it would have been much easier on my brain.

I am a psychology student who is fascinated by the brain and how having a positive mindset can change everything. I want to spread compassion and optimism to everyone around me, as well as help break mental health stigmas. I am excited to watch this non-profit thrive, help connect to others, and have a positive impact on people's lives.

Let's continue this conversation on http://www.instagram.com/tjhfcares.