Annual Report - VINE Faith in Action

Dear friends,
For many, VINE is a way of living life more fully, productively,
and sanely. Ten years ago my husband was diagnosed
with early stages of Alzheimer’s. I needed to learn what
would be happening to my husband and how to prepare
as a caregiver. A VINE support group was meeting monthly,
and I quickly joined. I read “The 36 Hour Day” and anything
I could get my hands on regarding Alzheimer’s and caregiving.
VINE offered the class, “As Families Grow Older”
and monthly caregiver groups featuring speakers on many
topics caregivers need to know.
VINE assists in many ways--respite care for care receivers
when caregivers need to go to appointments, classes, or
just for some peace. They helped fill out the many parts of
applications for the various assisted living residences where
my husband eventually lived. VINE staff helped me move
my husband’s things from home to his places in assisted
living. They helped with household chores. There was
emotional support consisting of phone calls, lunches, and
social outings that caregivers and spouses could attend.
I treasure the VINE friends, fellow caregivers, and staff
I have met and worked with. Recently I became a VINE
volunteer, so I can offer care to others in need. Two months
ago, my husband died. VINE was there helping distribute
some of his belongings.
VINE’s funding has been cut. It is a tragedy as VINE
helped me have a quality life during my husband’s illness.
Many depend on this service and many more will, whose
family members have not, as yet, been diagnosed.
Peg Bindner, North Mankato
5
A WAY OF LIFE
Karl and Peg Bindner