I've spent 20 years caring for 5 loved ones. At 54, I feel like I'm still waiting for my own life to begin.
Laura Lee Ehrlich, 54, spent two decades caring for five loved ones. She left work and used savings and her 401(k) along the way.
Laura Ehrlich has been a caregiver for five family members over the course of two decades. She gave up her job to be a more present caregiver and has experienced the impact on her career and finances. Ehrlich has been the main caregiver for her father, mother-in-law, aunt, and mother, each with their own health challenges. She had to balance caregiving with attending nursing school.
Ehrlich's mother worked multiple jobs, while her father worked in the city and was often on odd hours. Her older brother took care of the household when her father was absent. Ehrlich's father had a heart attack and passed away, leaving her to take care of her mother, who became his caregiver. Later, her father-in-law was diagnosed with cancer and required constant care.
Ehrlich also cared for her mother-in-law, who needed assistance with daily activities. Despite the emotional and financial strain, Ehrlich is still waiting for her own life to begin.
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