One Day at a Time: Ghislaine and Donald’s story
Living with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in the present moment
While some people go through the disease by anticipating each stage, always one step ahead, others choose to live in the present moment. This is the case for Ghislaine Tardif, who lives in the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region and cares for her husband, Donald, who is living with ALS. Together, they are learning to adapt to changing needs over time and enjoy every day they share.
“It has never scared me to be a caregiver. For me, it’s one day at a time. I’m learning to fulfill this role as the disease progresses,” she says.
Donald Lord, living with ALS, and Ghislaine Tardif, caregiver
Support in Remote Regions: An Additional Challenge for Those Living with ALS
Living in region also brings its share of challenges. “You have to understand that we live far from the city. We’re 50 kilometers from the pharmacy, the grocery store, everything,” she explains. Trips into town therefore require a lot of organization and energy.
For Ghislaine, respite is not necessarily found outside the home. Rather, it lies in the small moments of calm that she allows herself every day.
Every Caregiver Finds Respite in Their Own Way
“In the morning, I try to get up before him so I can have a quiet cup of coffee. As soon as he gets up, I’m there to help him with his daily tasks,” says Ghislaine, describing what her days are like.
In the simplicity of these moments, Ghislaine finds balance. Her story illustrates the reality of many caregivers, whose commitment is marked by gentleness, adaptability, and resilience, day after day.
Diversity in ALS Caregiving
Through Jocelyn and Ghislaine’s journeys, we discover two very different realities, but with a common thread: presence, patience, and love. In their own ways, they remind us that caregiving does not take a single form. It is experienced according to each person’s personality, context, and strengths.
Beyond Caregiving and ALS
Being a caregiver is a remarkable role, but it does not fully define the person providing care. Rather, it is the courage, resilience, and empathy they show every day that truly defines them.
Behind every gesture, every glance, every moment of respite lies a story of dedication. Together, these stories remind us that at the heart of ALS are, above all, strong human connections and sincere solidarity.
For more advice and resources for caregivers, see our article on the role of caregivers in families affected by ALS.