Rick Shideler’s caregiving journey began on December 10, 2020, when his wife Cindy suffered a life-altering stroke shortly after their retirement. Suddenly, the couple’s plans and dreams were redirected to align with Cindy’s new physical capabilities. As Cindy’s primary caregiver, Rick found solace in an unexpected place: the Neuro Caregiver Support Group at Roper St. Francis Healthcare.
Created by speech-language pathologist and brain injury coordinator Michelle Moore, the group meets virtually once a month to provide caregivers a safe space to vent frustrations, share successes and connect with others who understand their experiences. “The best therapy I ever had was hearing others in the group share the exact same stories,” Rick said.
Stroke recovery is not just the patient’s journey—it is a family journey. Caregivers like Rick manage medications, transportation, and daily physical support while often carrying significant emotional stress and fatigue. Katie Hall, stroke coordinator at Roper Rehabilitation Hospital, explained, “Stroke doesn’t just happen to the patient. It happens to the family, too.”
The Neuro Caregiver Support Group is part of Roper St. Francis Healthcare’s broader commitment to stroke recovery, which includes nationally recognized rehabilitation services. Roper Rehabilitation Hospital is certified by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) and is recognized as one of the top rehabilitation hospitals in the state.
By offering this support group and comprehensive care programs, Roper St. Francis Healthcare empowers caregivers and stroke survivors alike to heal together, rediscover hope and rebuild independence one step at a time.
Story by communications intern Sophia Raad.