About this Site

Erica Draper-Johnson, Occupational Therapist

Having been a caregiver of a grandparent who suffered a stroke, I understand the problems and struggles facing African-American families trying to rebuild life and family after stroke. The frustration of not knowing what questions to ask doctors, nurses, and other support staff. The confusion in trying to understand the diagnosis and what it means for the patient, yourself, and the family. The endless cycle of doctor, therapist, and other health related appointments. The inability at times to be able to juggle family, job, school, and other obligations, along with the care-giving role to everyone’s satisfaction. The constant wondering that there was something we, as a family, should have done that may have prevented this from happening. It was during this time we wished for help, education, and guidance in handling the situation we were in. Unfortunately, we didn't find much information. And even when we did, it was not specifically written with an African-American audience in mind.

This lack of information is what makes this site so important to the African-American community. The site is created to act as a bridge between hospital, doctor, therapist, and family. It is a hoped that this will assist everyone in communicating openly -- and on the same level -- during a time of confusion and pain. We hope that it may help families talk honestly with each other about what has happened, the changes that can be expected, and how to help each other cope. These are needs that all families have during a time of crisis; it is up to the caregiver and family to make sure these needs are met.

It was a blessing to have been raised in a large family that consisted mostly of aging older adults. I grew up with access to great-great grandparents, aunts, and uncles. This gave me a different perspective on elder care and needs. I was able to witness first-hand the problems and issues older adults had with healthcare. I was able to hear from them their opinions on issues ranging from long term care to diet. I heard and saw what was really important to them in their day-to-day lives. I am now able to take these experiences I have gathered and transfer them into a practice of helping African-American caregivers cope with the aging elderly in their lives. My decision to become an occupational therapist was based on my feeling to want to make a difference. I have many roles -- as we all do in this life -- mother, caregiver, worker, student, daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, therapist, and provider. The ones I am most proud of are those that allow me to help both family and community.

Additional Site Credits

This site was made possible by the vision and direction of Dorothy Edwards and Carolyn Baum of the Washington University Program in Occupational Therapy.