My Two Elaines: Learning, Coping, and Surviving as an Alzheimer’s Caregiver with Marty Schreiber—the 39th Governor of WI
Marty Schreiber shares his 18-year experience of watching his wife Elaine transform into a person who no longer recognizes her husband and children. His message for fellow caregivers: There is hope in the sorrow and strength in knowing you are not alone. “What I have learned over the past decade plus will, I hope, make a difference in your life and that of your loved one,” writes Schreiber. “I have hiked up the Alzheimer’s mountain, have identified its dangerous areas, and am meeting you now on the way back down as you begin your own climb. Please, don’t take another step until you hear what I have to say.”
Marty will share what he wishes he’d known sooner and done differently as a caregiver. He also injects many moments of humor and joy, because he believes without laughter, you cannot survive this journey.
Martin J. Schreiber grew up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Marty ran for public office even before he had completed law school. In 1962, he was elected as the youngest-ever member of the Wisconsin State Senate. He was elected lieutenant governor in 1970 and, in 1977, became the 39th Governor of Wisconsin. He recently retired from his public affairs firm and now is an advocate for Alzheimer’s caregivers. In addition to caring for Elaine for the past 18 years prior to her passing in April 2022, Martin is passionately committed to speaking out to help caregivers and their loved ones live their best lives possible.
Service Leader: Jim Black
Music: Beth Coleman