Caregivers treated to massages, peace of mind

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At Doctor's Hospital in Sarasota, dozens of people, who usually have the weight of the world on their shoulders, came together to unwind. 

"There's a spoken and unspoken support when we are all in the same place," said Shelley Solomon. 

Shelley Solomon is a wife, but she is also a caregiver for her husband, Joe. 

"Joe started declining in 2008. He had an accident and it seemed like everything went completely downhill from there," she said. 

Their wedding vows ring true: In sickness and in health. Shelley devoted her life to taking care of the man she loves. 

"You're never really away. It’s always there it’s always in the back of your mind even if they’re not physically present with you. You’re always concerned, what are they doing? How are they? What’s happening to them?” said Solomon. 

For people like Solomon, having a break is important and needed. That's why Doctor's Hospital arranged a day of pampering and a few hours off for caregivers like Shelley. 

"Caregivers need to feel they are supported by one another and they experience a like experience. That’s why it’s so powerful," said Michael Fitzgerald. 

Fitzgerald is the Director for Serenity Place at Doctor's Hospital, She said these get-togethers are crucial. 

"It's important for them to be able for them to really let their hair down a bit, commune with each other. Talk about what's going on for the holidays and share the good things that they can do and have out of the experience," said Fitzgerald. 

They're able to connect and find comfort in knowing they're not alone. 

"We need it. It’s great. It’s fabulous...We are recharging our batteries," said Solomon. 

Doctor's Hospital holds caregiver support meetings on the third Monday of every month at 10 a.m. 

For more information visit https://doctorsofsarasota.com/patients/support-groups.dot.