Tracey Lawrence is an educator, innovator, disruptor and entrepreneur. Her journey as a serial caregiver led her to create Grand Family Planning, LLC: http://grandfamilyplanning.com Tracey shows clients the power of being proactive in light of the certainty that illness and death will be a part of every person's life. She saves lives and legacies in a climate that lengthens human lives without regard to quality of life. Her team-based approach simplifies a daunting and complex process. Tracey’s book, “Dementia Sucks,” was published by Post Hill Press in May of 2018. It is available from Amazon and fine bookstores everywhere. She speaks professionally about the need to support family caregivers and the importance of advocacy for those who have difficulty speaking for themselves.
http://www.grandfamilyplanning.com/dementia-sucks https://www.facebook.com/GrandFamilyPlanning/ https://www.facebook.com/DementiaSux/ https://twitter.com/DementiaBook https://twitter.com/grandfamilyplan https://www.instagram.com/dementiasucks/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/traceyslawrence |
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Humanitys Heart Interview
DEMENTIA SUCKS Tracey Lawrence is the founder of Grand Family Planning and bestselling author of “Dementia Sucks.” Having survived caregiving two parents who succumbed to dementia, Tracey has a unique perspective on the challenges of staying productive under pressure, and addresses the growing caregiving epidemic through professional speaking, coaching and training programs. www.dementiasucks.com |
Book - Dementia Sucks
Adopted Dog
My husband and me in front of the house
David
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What's Your Story?
My book, “Dementia Sucks,” was published this May by Post Hill Press. I’ve always enjoyed writing, but I’m immensely proud to have a published work that so many people are enjoying. And while they’re enjoying it, I am also sneaking in some knowledge about family dynamics, dealing with dementia, understanding our healthcare system and how to talk to crazy people. (Image of cover included below) What is the toughest decision you have ever made? I adopted a twelve year old dog. We are nuts about her, but now that she’s 14, she’s got kidney disease and she’s losing ground. It’s hard to watch, but I wouldn’t trade a minute with her. She’s precious. What is the easiest decision you have ever made? Buying our house in Ringwood NJ. Almost 16 years later, we still love it. The town is beautiful and I’m grateful to be here. (photo of my husband and me in front of the house attached) Who is your role model and why? Jen Sincero is my role model. She was broke, insecure and afraid. Now she’s wealthy, courageous and inspiring others to do what they want most to do. She helps people break free of the ridiculous illusions that entrap us in tiny lives. What is your SUPER Power? I am a really great teacher. When I encounter a concept or a problem that’s hard to overcome, I work at it until I find answers. Then I use my experience to explain the solution to others. So my Super Power is helping other people to understand difficult topics they have not been able to comprehend on their own. When have you been the most satisfied in your life? Visiting Italy in 2016 and getting to see Michelangelo’s most famous works up close, in real life. (photo of David attached) What things do you not like to do? Pay bills, clean the house, drive long distances in the rain, drive anywhere in snow. What is the most important thing about what you want to do? By raising awareness about the scourge of dementia and getting people to plan for a time when they will either have to give care to someone else OR receive help from another person, I will save lives and protect people from predators and horrible situations. Do you believe books can change the world? Absolutely. I’m a voracious reader and life-long learner. Books are the most efficient knowledge transfer and imagination engagement tools ever devised. What is your ultimate goal? To teach millions of people how to protect themselves and their families from the ravages of illness; to change the way we look at death and embrace it as a part of life; to enable people to laugh at themselves and each other with love and compassion. If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be? Lazy minds. What do you prefer? Beach or Mountains? Mountains, for the views. (photo attached) Sweet or spicy? They work nicely together (Thai food), but I do have a sweet tooth. Window or aisle? Aisle (so I can go to the bathroom as often as I like) Ice-Cream or Custard? Gelato (Italy changed me) Dessert First or last? Last. I’m traditional in this regard. |
What Ripple Effect Would you start in the world and why?
We are at a point where people cling to beliefs that put them at odds with each other. I want to encourage people to be more accepting of others; stop assuming that anyone who disagrees with them is stupid or evil; be open to laughter, especially at themselves. |