23. Rebuilding Life After Caregiving and Loss with Janine Hayes OAM

In this deeply moving conversation, I talk with Janine Hayes OAM, business leader, long-time skydiver and one of Australia’s most accomplished members of the skydiving community, about caregiving, grief and the uncertain work of rebuilding life after loss. After caring for her husband Ken through frontotemporal dementia and motor neurone disease, Janine reflects on advocacy, resilience and the need to care for herself while caring for someone else. She shares how skydiving, nature, family and friendship helped sustain her and what she is discovering about purpose and possibility in her mid-sixties. Janine ends by reading a poignant original poem about moving through grief towards a “beckoning shore.” Also covered Skydiving as a lifelong source of joy, focus, community and respite during difficult times Navigating the healthcare system, advocating for a loved one and the often-invisible workload of caregiving The importance of self-care, professional support and boundaries for carers How friends can offer genuinely useful support by suggesting specific practical help Finding purpose, connection and hope after loss through family, friendship, community and new possibilities Keywords skydiving, caregiving, grief, resilience, personal growth, life transitions, mental health, adventure, community, support serendipity, caregiving, community, skydiving, self-care, women empowerment, resilience, leadership, support, mental health. Guest: Janine Hayes LinkedIn:    / janine-hayes222   SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS FREE WORKSHOP: Introducing The Messy Middle Method Come along to this one hour full of lessons from my five years of coaching, conversations and community with women over fifty as I introduce the Messy Middle Method. 7th September 12.00 noon AEST or 8th September 6.30 PM AEST Learn More Here: https://www.flourishafterfifty.com.au... NEW PROGRAM: Flourishing in the Messy Middle Flourishing in the Messy Middle is a three-month live online group journey for women over 50 who know something is changing and are ready to explore what comes next. Starts *22 September*. Learn More Here: https://www.flourishafterfifty.com.au... ---------------------------------------- I offer one-on-one coaching, small-group programs and a monthly online discussion group to support women navigating career and life changes. If you’re at a crossroads and want to create your own path and truly flourish – on your own terms, get in touch: https://www.flourishafterfifty.com.au... Sign up for weekly insights and bite-sized advice: https://www.flourishafterfifty.com.au...