2025 Family Caregiver Award Winner: Natasha Shubrick

Caregiver: Natasha Shubrick

She’s caring for: Her mother

Winner of: Family Caregiver Award

Natasha’s mother was diagnosed with Vascular Dementia due to Alzheimer’s several years ago. Since the diagnosis, Natasha has stepped into a full time caregiving role to support her mother’s daily needs, and as a result, every aspect of her life has transformed. The transition required Natasha to permanently relocate from Chicago to South Carolina, leaving behind her life and community, along with her career and a promise of stable income.

Now, as her mother’s full-time caregiver, she manages every detail of her mother’s daily life, including meal preparation, medication administration, medical appointments, and household chores. 

The added challenge of not having a car makes appointments and errands even more difficult to manage, as she must rely on rides from her brother, friends, or ride-share services. The lack of public transportation in their small town further complicates the situation, making it impossible to leave her mother alone, even for a moment.

“Caregiving is a labor of love, but it requires significant sacrifices,” she says. “I have given up so much to care for my mother, and while I don’t regret my decision, the road has been anything but easy.” Natasha hopes that the prize from this award will provide a critical lifeline, helping her manage her financial challenges, explore respite care options, and regain some financial independence.

“I have no income, no health insurance, and no access to programs that could compensate me for the extensive care I provide.” Despite the challenges, Natasha remains committed to her mother’s well-being, facing each physically and emotionally demanding day with love and determination.

Fond Memories of A Life Well Lived

Natasha recalls: “My mother was a dedicated educator and an active community member, deeply involved in civic, church, and alumni organizations,” she recalls. “Even in retirement, former students still call her, send cards, visit, and shower her with admiration whenever they see her, which is a testament to the lasting impact she has had on countless lives.” 

Congratulations, Natasha!