Episode 06: The Journey of a Caregiver — Navigating the Challenges of Inherited Cardiac Conditions

Susan McLaren shares her lived experience as a caregiver for her husband and children living with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), an inherited cardiac condition affecting the heart muscle. She discusses the gaps in support and counselling for families dealing with genetic cardiac disease, the impact on her husband and children’s lives after their diagnosis, and the importance of finding ways to cope and take care of oneself as a caregiver.

When asked what advice she would give to someone who has recently learned of a relative’s diagnosis who may also be transitioning into a caregiver role, Susan expresses how “It’s not the end of the road. It’s not the end of the world. Knowledge is a great tool, and finding out as much information as you can about the disease does help you process the information better … As a caregiver, you have to look after yourself. Taking time just to remove yourself from the situation is important.” In this episode, Susan provides listeners with a unique caregiver perspective woven with prominent themes of hope and resilience despite the uncertainty that often underscores an HCM diagnosis.

For more information on Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, click here.