For over two decades, Melody has lived the reality of being the primary caregiver for her son, Isaac, who is blind, and has cerebral palsy and epilepsy. As a mother, Melody knows the devotion required to care for a son who looks to her for his daily needs. The sacrifices of spontaneity and privacy, coupled with the need for 24/7 attention, have shaped her life and that of her family, making them intimately familiar with the emotional and practical demands of caregiving.
As a daughter, Melody managed the intricate medical needs of her father as his health declined in the final years of his life. She knows first hand the challenge of balancing the demands of family life with the complex needs of an elderly parent.
With a Master's degree in Communication Disorders, she spent 30 years as a speech-language pathologist, providing direct therapy to children and essential clinical support to parents & caregivers.
With a Master's degree in Communication Disorders, she spent 30 years as a speech-language pathologist, providing direct therapy to children and essential clinical support to parents & caregivers.
After experiencing a serious car accident that left her in need of rehabilitation and care, Melody gained a profound understanding of caregiving from the other side. Through her journey as a mother, daughter, professional, and patient, she has learned the emotional toll and intricate details of caregiving. Melody excels in connecting with resources, building support networks, and assembling care teams, all while living the essential truth that caregivers must prioritize their own well-being to truly thrive.
Education
- B.A. in Communication Disorders - University of North Dakota
- M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology - University of North Dakota
- Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
- Master Certified Health Coach (MCHC)
- National Academy of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer (NASM-CPT)
