Legacy, Loss, and Love: A Mindful Approach to Caregiving with Jessica Smith

In this heartfelt episode of Message in the Middle, Marianne sits down with mindfulness teacher, caregiver, and dementia advocate Jessica Smith for a conversation that lives at the intersection of presence, purpose, and deep compassion. For over two decades, Jessica has studied and practiced awareness-based meditation under the guidance of renowned spiritual teachers like Ram Dass, Sharon Salzberg, and Michael Singer. But it’s her personal journey as a long-distance caregiver for her mother, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s more than ten years ago, that has shaped her work in the most profound way. Together, Marianne and Jessica explore:The emotional layers of long-distance caregivingNavigating family dynamics in the face of a loved one’s diagnosisHow mindfulness helps caregivers stay grounded, even on the hardest daysThe evolving relationship between parent and child through the lens of Alzheimer’sWhat it means to connect when memory fadesFinding peace in “enoughness”How training as a death doula deepened Jessica’s perspective on legacy and letting goPractical ways caregivers can show up for themselves when time is scarce This episode is a beautiful reminder that even in the midst of grief, there can be grace and that mindful awareness offers a path not just to endure, but to connect more deeply. Resources & Links Connect with Jessica and learn more about her work:https://www.instagram.com/alzheimers_awakening/ https://linktr.ee/alzheimers_awakening Connect with Marianne: Website: Message In The Middle with Marianne Message In the Middle Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/422430469323847/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MessageInTheMiddle/playlists LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marianne-demello-smith-678b9966 Email: Contact | Message In The Middle with Marianne Subscribe to Message In the Middle: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Leave Us a Review: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review and share your favorite takeaway. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and bring you even more valuable content. Keep the conversation going - Join us for more insightful conversations in the Message in the Middle Private Facebook Community & subscribe to Message in th...