TESTIMONIALS FROM NSCR’S CAREGIVER SUPPORT PROGRAM (2025-26)
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP
“The most beneficial aspect of participating in this program has been the safe, welcoming environment and the strong sense of trust that has been intentionally created. The leadership and facilitation provided by Vic Gailiunas have played a key role in fostering meaningful social connection, encouraging participation, and ensuring that all participants feel respected and supported. This has had a positive impact on my emotional wellbeing and sense of belonging. (His) contribution to this program is significant and impactful. (His) consistent presence, thoughtful facilitation, and genuine care for participants create a space where individuals feel heard, valued, and empowered to support one another.
This leadership directly contributes to the program’s success in reducing social isolation and strengthening community connection. Continued support for this role and program is strongly warranted, as it delivers clear social and well-being outcomes for participants.”
“Being in the program has helped me feel supported, and that I’m not alone. We have a wonderful group of people, and few of us meet outside the meetings to go for weekly walks along the seawall. We share information about the challenges we face and support each other with our ups and downs. I am grateful to be a part of the caregivers group. Vic Gailiunas is incredibly supportive, kind, compassionate, empathetic and well respected. He is a wealth of knowledge and runs the meetings smoothly and with passion.”
BEREAVEMENT GROUP
“The North Shore Community Resources has been a special part of my life since I joined the Care Giver Support Group about 11 years ago. The Support Group helped me navigate a challenging time in my life. In appreciation of your organization and staff’s support and guidance, I volunteered to do a one-on-one coaching to share and help other community members who are going through the same challenges I experienced. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve and support in your organization and the North Shore community.”
“I want to express my appreciation to you, Melanie and the group for being there when I needed to share my grief and anger, and for making me feel heard and understood.”
MEN’S GROUP
“Although I’ve attended only 2 meetings, I know I won’t be missing many. The first meeting was powerful and cathartic for me It was a tremendous relief to visit with others who are on the same path. I knew I was approaching burn-out as a care giver, and after participating and listening to others in the group, I became aware of ways to manage and to improve my caregiver self. It changed the way I view and approach my life. I learned that others face similar (and much greater) challenges, so I felt I belonged. I experienced camaraderie. Listening to, and understanding others, relieves a lot of my stress, and provides some new approaches that I would not have thought possible Many thanks.”
Continued on page B4
SPONSORED CONTENT
The North Shore’s Original Home Care Company
Shylo Home Healthcare has become a trusted partner for seniors in the Vancouver area who wish to Age in Place, remaining in the comfort of their own homes while maintaining dignity, safety, and independence. For over forty-five years, Shylo has provided personalised care and support that empowers older adults to live life on their own terms
At the heart of Shylo’s approach is respect for each individual’s autonomy. The agency recognises that every senior’s needs and preferences are unique, so services are tailored accordingly. From companionship and personal care to specialised dementia support, Shylo’s team of qualified caregivers designs Care Plans that fit seamlessly into each client’s lifestyle and healthcare goals Whether a senior needs daily assistance or occasional help, Shylo’s flexible care options can evolve as circumstances change
What truly sets Shylo apart is its commitment to dignity and
compassion. Caregivers are carefully selected not only for their professional expertise, but also for their warmth and respect for clients’ privacy and individuality. By fostering trust and meaningful relationships, Shylo helps seniors feel valued and connected, key ingredients for emotional well-being and quality of life.
“I’m worried aboutmymom”
“If you’re going to be in the nursing care business, we believe you really should be a nurse.”
Beyond direct client care, Shylo provides families with peace of mind. Its local team is deeply rooted in the Vancouver community, offering responsive, 24/7 support and guidance This community-based model means clients always receive attentive, reliable service from people who genuinely care.
Aging in Place isn’t just about staying home—it’s about preserving a sense of control.Through compassionate caregiving, adaptive support, and a deep respect for clients’ independence, Shylo Home Healthcare helps Vancouver seniors lead fulfilling lives in familiar surroundings Their work ensures that aging is not defined by limitation, but by comfort, dignity, and choice
It is our honour and privilege to be trusted to care for you and your loved ones.With Shylo it’s Your Home—Your Health—Your Choice TM
ShyloBrings Care To Your Home. Your momcannot move like she usedto, butshe still loves beingonher own. Shylowants to helpher stay in herhome. We have helped people with decreasedmobilityand agingchallenges live comfortably in their homessince 1980. ShyloHome SupportCare canhelpyou with:
Laundry&MealPreparation
OutTo Shop
Appointments... ... andmanyother issues that mayarise from time to time. Youdon’t have to do it alone.
CAREGIVER EXPO |
SATURDAY, MAY 2, 2026 • 12 - 4PM
TESTIMONIALS
Continued from page B2
“Learning from the experiences of those who have already been down this path. I see encouraging examples of courage, devotion, and action. I benefit from not being surprised by newly developing challenges and having some foresight in how they
can be managed. Vic is an empathetic but straightforward moderator, a difficult role. He somehow manages to give everyone the space they need to unload but not belabor often tragic circumstances, while also getting some light shining through The group consensus on approaches, actions, and pitfalls is enlightening.”
PERSIAN GROUP
“It’s been hard to find resources in Farsi and here, I learn about health and how to find more info. in my language making it easier to communicate. Thanks for having this!”
“I’ve learned about living healthier to prevent potential diseases in the future. The presenters are very nice and helpful. Thank you to Mobina and Aida for organizing these meetings.”
Continued on page B8
suitesinNorthand WestVancouver for independentseniors age 55+. Rent startingat$1,200 for studios and $1,400 for1 bdrm units.
“Most beneficial: socializing with other seniors in the community. Thanks for supporting seniors’ program and activities.”
“Harmony meetings.”
7TH ANNUAL CAREGIVER EXPO
“Thank you so so much for having me!!
I am sure you can tell how much I love it and how meaningful it is to me, so thank you for welcoming me back and trusting me with the audience!”
- Caregiver Expo Presenter
POWERFUL TOOLS FOR CAREGIVERS WORKSHOP
As a result of this class, do you believe you are a more confident caregiver than you were before taking the class?
If yes, in what ways?
“Yes I believe I have more tools for understanding and managing difficult emotions that accompany caregiving”
“Yes. improved communication skills. Learned how to pick up on vibes from the care receiver”
- Workshop participants
Over 100years of compassionatecare. Since 1919,we’ve proudlyserved theGreaterVancouverareawith compassion, professionalismand attentiontodetail. When youmake your arrangements with us,you’re choosingalocal partnerdedicated to helpingyou createapersonaland meaningful memorial.
presentation? (It might be something you learned, something you experienced, etc.):
What was the most beneficial thing about participating in the
“The workshop helped me better understand how overwhelming, helpless, and intimidating it can feel when supporting older adults
who may be undiagnosed or experiencing cognitive decline. It provided valuable insight and practical strategies that make these interactions less stressful and more compassionate.”
- Workshop participant
MORE THAN PLATITUDES
- MAKING SELF-CARE AND RESILIENCE COME ALIVE
WORKSHOP
Would you recommend this workshop to others? Why?
“Absolutely. It speaks to so many common issues and frustrations we all face in our human existence, whether we are in the ‘caregiver’ phase of life of not. An all-round helpful introduction to simple mindfulness techniques.”
At Global Senior Care,weare guided by aperson-centredcarephilosophy thathonours each individual’s unique values,lifeexperiences,cultural background,and personal identity.Our approach supportsnot only our clients, butalsotheir families, offering reassurance,continuity, and compassionatepartnership throughout thecarejourney.
• Support forseniors with chronic or terminal illness
• Grief support groups
• Caring calls and visits by volunteers
• Caregiversupport groups and resources
• Counselling for various issues
• Assistance withfood access
• Volunteer opportunities
Manyofour services arefree or offeredatareduced rate.
www.familyservices.bc.ca
604.988.5281
SPEAKERS
12:15 PM:
ELAINE BOOK
MSW, RSW, BC Brain Wellness Program, Clinical Instructor, Faculty of Medicine, Division of Neurology, UBC
Brain Wellness: Why It Is Important and How to Maintain It as a Care Partner
TOPICS TO BE COVERED:
Join this talk to learn about the importance of brain wellness and do-able strategies to incorporate these practices into your daily life as a care partner.
BIO:
Elaine Book is one of the original members of the BC Brain Wellness Program and has been a leader in its development from early days to
present. She has worked in the field of Social Work for over 35 years in a variety of community and hospital settings with an interest in the geriatric population. Previously the Center Coordinator and Clinic Social Worker for the Pacific Parkinson’s Research Centre at the UBC and a member of the planning committees of the World Parkinson Congress 2016, 2019 and 2023, today she remains involved with the congress planning for 2026 as well as being the co-coordinator of the Parkinson’s Foundation Team Training Program and Social Work faculty.
1:15 PM:
UMILLA STEAD
Regional Team Lead
SPEAKERS
Conversations That Matter: Empowering Caregivers in Care Planning
TOPICS TO BE COVERED:
DARA LEWIS
RN, Educator and Clinical Support, Goals of Care Support Team,Vancouver Coastal Health
Does this sound familiar to you? A healthcare provider has just shared some medical information with you about your loved one’s health and asks if you have any questions, but you’re just not sure what to ask. Dara Lewis and Umilla Stead from Vancouver Coastal Health will share some key questions you can use to better understand your loved one’s health situation and empower you to plan for what might be ahead. Whether the person you support is
generally well or living with various health conditions, understanding what’s going on and helping care providers know what matters most to your loved one — can make it easier to plan together and ensure care aligns with their values, wishes, and needs.
BIO UMILLA STEAD:
Umilla Stead has been an occupational therapist for almost 30 years and is the team lead for the Goals of Care Support team
Continued on page B13
Continued from page B11 at Vancouver Coastal Health The team promotes values-based conversations between health care providers and patients so that care can reflect what matters most to the person at the center.
BIO DARA LEWIS:
Dara Lewis is an educator and clinical support lead with the Goals of Care Support Team at Vancouver General Hospital, UBC Hospital, and GF Strong. She has been a registered nurse for the past 23 years and is an Adjunct Professor with the UBC School of Nursing Dara is currently completing her Master of Science in Nursing with a special interest in health-related conversations and decision-making.
SPEAKERS
2:15 PM: AMELIA GILLIES
Alzheimer Society of BC & Yukon Understanding Behaviour Changes
Understanding
Behaviour Changes
TOPICS TO BE COVERED:
Explore various changes in behaviours caused by dementia and learn practical strategies for responding in supportive ways. For caregivers.
BIO:
Amelia Gillies is a Support and Education Coordinator with the Alzheimer Society of B.C and Yukon. She is an advocate for people affected by dementia, and people
Communication Upskilling
living with disabilities Amelia brings her professional background in psychotherapy and in supporting people with cognitive and physical disabilities to her role, as well as her personal experience supporting family members with dementia.
Continued on page B14
Dates: May25toJune29,
Continued from page B13
3:15 PM:
SPEAKERS
TOPICS TO BE COVERED:
RACHELLE SUNGA
BCScN, RN, Care Office OwnerRight At Home
caregivers more confidence throughout the entire care journey.
BIO:
Rachelle Sunga is a healthcare leader with a strong foundation in nursing, clinical education, and care management. She currently serves as a Clinical Nurse Educator for Vancouver Coastal Health In addition, Rachelle is the proud owner of Right at Home Canada –North Shore, Squamish, and Whistler Care Office Recognizing Early Cognitive Changes & Supporting
Understanding early cognitive changes—such as shortterm memory loss, difficulty with familiar tasks, trouble finding words, disorientation, or shifts in mood—helps families distinguish normal aging from early signs of decline and seek support sooner. As care needs grow, navigating dementia at home can feel overwhelming. Tools like Sensi AI can support families at both stages: early on, by helping identify patterns or changes that may signal cognitive decline, and later, by offering realtime insights and guidance rooted in bestpractice dementia care. Sensi AI doesn’t replace human care—it enhances safety, reduces stress, and gives
CAREGIVER EXPO |
SATURDAY, MAY 2, 2026 • 12 - 4PM
Q & A WITH PROGRAM MEMBER,TOBIAS JESSO
Q: What has been your journey into caregiving?
A: Marsha was diagnosed in 2020 and as my spouse we are walking the journey together Marsha handled her diagnosis with grace, and I handled my anxiety and concerns about the future with disgrace, initially. I overreacted and spiralled into a psychological abyss of sadness and concern. Normally, I am always on the upbeat so being trapped in a situation of ongoing and never-ending sadness was too much. I visited the HOpe Center and quickly found a CBT therapist based on their triage advice The therapist
was very helpful and for the next couple of years I managed but I was not in control, nor had I fully processed the diagnosis I found the Men’s Group and that has been the best
thing so far to help me get the information I need to understand my situation and process the fears of an uncertain future. I need information and the group had lots of experience
with all stages which really helped me Also, I could get my own story on the examination table to be treated and refactored into something less hopeless. I can now experience joy even as Marsha and I get further and further into the great unknowns of dementia. We are flowing on a river, and fertile grassy bank rises up “like a pillow on a bed” a place where violets rest their heads and we are two lovers being there, each the other’s “best.” (John Donne - The Ecstacie).
Q: What made you want to join a caregiver support group and how did you find out about
the group at NSCR?
A: My psychologist and my own psychological well-being. I needed some guidance from lived experience.
Q: What do you believe are some benefits of attending a caregiving group?
A: Lots of support and time to process my emotions.
Q: How do you take care of yourself? What are some things you do to bring yourself joy?
A: Staying present with Marsha brings me joy… not trying to perform but to be the best I can be We play Disc Golf and we walk a lot ■
