Ramona Holloway is a familiar voice in Charlotte – outspoken, funny, and deeply connected to the community. But when her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2015, she didn’t know where to turn.

As the primary caregiver, Ramona faced life-altering decisions, emotional and physical exhaustion, and the loneliness that often accompanies caregiving.

She lived dual lives – an energetic radio personality in public, and a depressed, overwhelmed daughter in private. Now, she’s turning her personal journey into a mission to support other caregivers. And she’s asked MMC’s founding physician Dr. Chuck Edwards to help.

Together, Ramona and Dr. Edwards are producing a series of podcasts that explore the caregiving journey. “When I was deep in the trenches I didn’t know where to go for information. I found Chuck’s podcast, and I felt less alone – the stories helped me better understand what my mother and I were going through. I connected with MMC, a support group and other local resources.” She wants other caregivers to find similar help.

Ramona speaks candidly about the early days of her frustration, grief, and fear of doing something wrong. Over time, she learned coping strategies, often from other caregivers. “For example, Mom often believed she was young. Who was I to disagree?” she says. “Redirecting with joy became my way of preserving her dignity and my sanity.” She also learned to speak out. “It’s hard to believe, given my profession. But I just couldn’t share this tender, vulnerable experience in real time.” She says she had some healing to do first, and now she’s ready to share the truth. Dr. Edwards observes, “Caregivers need care too. This collaboration will provide context for Ramona’s story, and together we can reduce the stigma and help other families.”

Ramona’s experience has also sparked a personal transformation. “Often, patients’ children worry about developing dementia themselves,” Dr. Edwards explains. “It helps to understand the changes that are normal and expected as we age, and to make lifestyle changes where possible to support cognitive health.” Ramona’s taken this to heart – she’s cut out processed sugar and alcohol, walks daily, stays active socially, and prioritizes her physical and mental wellness.

The collaboration is about empowerment through education. “The details of every family’s experience are unique, but the stages are generally the same,” Dr. Edwards notes. “Together we can provide access to resources that can help a community of caregivers face this journey.”