Caregiver’s Lament

Caregiver’s Lament by Elizabeth F. Wagoner, EdD, RN is the loving story of a retired nurse educator who finds the retirement she had looked forward to turn into a worrisome, stressful period in her life after her husband, Frank, is diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. They’re able to spend several years traveling and enjoying life. However, as Frank’s health declined, they moved from their home in Pennsylvania to Florida, hoping for several more years of ‘quality time.’ Unfortunately, within approximately six months, Frank’s ability to perform daily tasks diminished to the point where Wagoner had to look for an ALF (Assisted Living Facility). She struggled with her emotions over ten years as Frank spent his time between home, ALFs, and hospitals, feeling guilt for not being able to care for him herself.

Wagoner shares her caregiver’s experience in the hope of easing the burden of others in that situation. Whiel this work focuses on Parkinson’s, the caregiver’s experience is universal.

About the Author

Born in the Bronx, New York, Elizabeth F. Wagoner, EdD, RN spent much much of her life in Pennsylvania and later Florida.

She graduated from nursing school and obtained several higher education degrees: a B.S. in Nursing, and M.A. in Nursing Education, and an EdD from Rutgers. She married and had three children. After retiring from a full career, Wagoner was caregiver for her husband, Frank, for the last ten years of his life. She is the author of several other books: The Face of Nursing, Cinnamon Tears, 2006; and Long Island Beach House, 2008.