I AM YOU – Ep. 47 – Self-Care Isn’t Selfish

I AM YOU is hosted by Nitza I. Alvarez, MD, FACC — board-certified cardiologist, Women’s Heart Specialist, and bestselling author. Each episode shares real stories and expert insights that help women better understand their heart health, manage stress, and take charge of their well-being. Dr. Alvarez’s mission is simple: to inspire every woman to become the CEO of her own health—with knowledge, confidence, and community.

In this episode, Dr. Alvarez sits down with Maureen Uriarte, a devoted wife and full-time caregiver whose story reflects the emotional load carried by countless women. For nearly three decades, Maureen has cared for her husband Steve through significant health challenges - yet she made a powerful, life-changing decision: to take care of herself, too.

Maureen opens up about the guilt, emotional exhaustion, and constant self-sacrifice that caregivers quietly endure. She explains the moment she realized that putting herself last was hurting both her and her husband - and how choosing to prioritize her own health became an act of love, not selfishness.

Dr. Alvarez and Maureen explore:

•Why women feel guilty prioritizing themselves

•How caregiver stress silently harms the body

•Small, realistic ways to “recharge” even when you can’t leave home

•How to communicate your needs without making loved ones feel like a burden

•Why caregivers must speak up, schedule their own checkups, and advocate for their emotional and physical well-being

This episode serves as a heartfelt reminder: you cannot pour from an empty cup. Caring for yourself is not only essential - it is a responsibility to the people who depend on you. Maureen’s honesty, humor, and strength will inspire every listener to pause, reflect, and take the first step toward becoming the CEO of their own health, no matter how much they give to others.