On November 11, 1969, I accepted my first position as director of nurses in a long-term-care facility. At twenty-two years of age, I had no nursing home experience; nonetheless, Mrs. Helen Hosman, the owner, “took a chance” on me. Thank you, Mrs. Hosman, for allowing me to start a journey I continue to this day. My wholehearted appreciation to the thousands of families with whom I have shared this road for allowing me to join you in your caregiving travels. To Ann Convery, I owe my heartfelt thanks for challenging me to share my experiences with others, never doubting for a moment the potential of this work. You sat hour after hour drawing this information out of me and onto paper; I am profoundly grateful. To my publicist, Anthony Mora, my appreciation for obtaining consistent media opportunities which have allowed me to shed light on eldercare issues. To Sue Brantley, thank you for your friendship and expert editing skills, which considerably enriched the book. To Harriet Bell, vice president and publisher, William Morrow Cookbooks, who had confidence in an unknown writer and allowed me to share my message, and to Toni Sciarra, my editor at HarperCollins, who recognized my style and allowed me to communicate in my own voice—my sincere gratitude. To my sister, Pat Mora—my rock throughout this process: I am ever grateful for your continued confidence, valuable suggestions, and cheerleading skills. Christopher, thank you for understanding the importance of this project, for sharing your mother’s time for the last five years, and for being a loving, helpful grandson to your beloved grandparents. You are more precious to me than you will ever know. And to my husband, Terry, without whose help I would never have been able to be the caregiver my parents needed me to be: Thank you for your love, patience, and support. You are always there for me. Finally, to Estella and Raul Mora, my treasured parents: Thank you for your unconditional love, your wisdom, and your unquestioning faith in me. I miss you daily.