Finding Joy and Legacy in Caregiving: A Conversation with Breeda Miller

In this episode of Life in Michigan, we sat down with Breeda Miller – storyteller, author, performer, and, as she calls herself, “a recovering caregiver.” Breeda opens up about her deeply personal experience of caring for her mother — a journey that ultimately inspired her one-woman play and the moving memoir Mrs. Kelly’s Journey Home.

During our conversation, she shared humorous and heartfelt tales. Anyone who has loved someone with dementia can relate when Breeda said, “Caring for a person with dementia, it's like every day at the improv without the applause. You don't know who's walking out of that bedroom, what era they're in, what mood they're in, where they think they are, how old they think they are. You have to have an agile mind. You have to be able to adapt and be flexible instead.”

We loved her apple pie story, which is part of her play – a beautiful reminder about connection and making time for the moments that truly matter. We talk about it during our conversation with Breeda.

Get cozy and join us for the conversation while she recounts her experience as a caregiver for her mother, the importance of self-care, and how her lifelong love of storytelling and theater culminated in a one-woman show that toured across multiple states, performed in Ireland, and even broadcast on PBS.

Trust us — this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

Breeda Miller Links:

* Get the book

* Watch her PBS Special "Mrs. Kelly's Journey Home"

* Book Breeda for your keynote, caregiver retreat, engaging programs, event MC, or inspirational closing speaker

* Listen to The Moth Radio Hour story: “Ticket to Heaven”

* Find upcoming performances and tour dates on Breeda's website - updated regularly!

Other Links:

* Brian Cox, Pencil Point Productions

If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend, especially someone on a caregiving journey. It might just bring them a little laughter, wisdom, and comfort.

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