“ My caregiving journey
began not all that differently than that
of many others... it was unanticipated and called
for an intensely immediate focus outside of
my realm of life and work experiences
which instantly altered my formerly anticipated
life path - as I suddenly found myself unwittingly
a member of one of the most
ancient global clubs in human history.
It was a bittersweet chapter of my life
that profoundly challenged and changed me
into becoming a better version of myself "
Krista Huebner
Every caregiving story is as uniquely individual as those involved. Boomerang became my distinctive way of sharing my introspective journey with hopes that it would resonate with others. It is a distillation of personal take-aways and insights gleaned from the challenges and lived experiences of being the 24/7 caregiver for my fiercely independent mother and best friend, who tragically experienced a devastating stroke. Our journey together took place over seven intense years, where I often never really knew from day to day the extent of time we would have together. There were good days, as there difficult ones. It was a soulful journey of many firsts and meaningful memories - a bittersweet chapter of my life that profoundly challenged and changed me to become a better version of myself.
Boomerang was years in the making, which after many iterations led to feeling that it needed to speak both intimately yet broadly allowing for reader interpretation and adaptation to their individual situations. I believed cutting-to-the chase with content, avoiding lengthy jargon by distilling my insights into abbreviated personal wisdoms and presenting these from an unvarnished perspective might not only resonate with caregivers but enlighten others who also find themselves within the orbit of family caregiving. The aim of this book is not to make medical, scientific claims or otherwise, nor does it profess to having answers or solutions. It was created to serve as a platform for contemplation and further discussion. Boomerang is the cross pollination of my 24/7 family caregiver experience with that of my professional background as an arts and design professional, which spans over four decades in visual communications including graphic design.