Article by Liisa Ogburn.
Just listen
The first text came in at 5:04 am. “Call me ASAP,” an old friend wrote, followed by questions she had about which rehab she should go to when she was discharged in two days.
“I’m spinning,” she texted. “Help.”
She was a dear friend. I fixed a quick cup of coffee and went out to call her from my car so I wouldn’t wake the kids. The street was completely quiet, the air cold.
In the dark, your mind can go to dark places.
This was not the first time, by any means, that I had received an after-hours text or call. I know now not to pick up, unless I’m on-call for a client, but this was a friend.
To read the entire article, go to: https://www.wral.com/just-listen/17129213/
Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!
About the Author:
Liisa Ogburn is at the heart of Aging Advisors NC, bringing a rich blend of personal experience and global perspective to elder care. Raised in North Carolina with deep roots in Finland, Liisa has a unique appreciation for diverse approaches to aging, shaped by her life across different cultures including Finland, Estonia, Germany, England, Japan, and Costa Rica.
Her path into elder care consulting was deeply personal. While juggling her role as a Duke University educator and caring for her father-in-law and three young children, Liisa started sharing her family’s journey through articles for The New York Times and later, over 300 posts for WRAL Raleigh on everything from handling loss to choosing the right elder care options.
A teacher at heart, Liisa thrives on empowering others with knowledge. She offers her expertise in presentations to various groups—from churches to professional firms—and writes extensively, reaching audiences far and wide. Her credentials include certifications in geriatric care and a special certification from Brown University to teach Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, reinforcing her belief that calm minds make sound decisions.
