Sarah DeBord
Caregivers often bear an invisible burden; giving their time, energy, and love to support others while quietly navigating their own challenges. Caregiver Con 2024, hosted by Jack’s Caregiver Co., offered a space for these unsung heroes to connect, share, and heal together.
Kyle Woody, founder of Jack’s Caregiver Co., was inspired by his own caregiving journey. His wife, Sarah DeBord—a former Colon Cancer Coalition (CCC) team member and friend—battled her own colorectal cancer journey while she and Kyle raised two young sons. Kyle found unexpected support from their friend, Jack, who stepped in to help with household chores and offer emotional support. That experience sparked Kyle’s mission to create a community for caregivers, mirroring the support that Jack provided him during their time of need.
Held on November 2 at Mozaic in Minneapolis, Caregiver Con brought caregivers together for a full day of breakout sessions, general discussions, and unique performances (View Agenda). Attendees bonded through shared experiences and explored themes of resilience and recognition.
The breakout sessions were particularly impactful, giving attendees a safe space to share their stories and challenges. It was a day where caregivers felt seen and recognized in what they go through on a day-to-day basis.
Caregiver Con 2024
Among the standout speakers was Paurvi Bhatt, who chose to remain unmarried to dedicate her life to caring for her parents as their only child. Her heartfelt story inspired many, including our San Francisco Local Event Director, Jenny Yu, who flew in for this conference and whose own father was diagnosed with colon cancer.
There was also an improv group that brought humor and humanity to the stage, performing skits that captured the essence of caregiving. Their performances struck a chord with attendees, with many requesting a digital copy to share with others they felt needed to better understand what being a caregiver is like.
Caregiver Con 2024 was more than an event; it was a testament to the strength, resilience, and compassion of caregivers. Thanks to organizations like Jack’s Caregiver Co. and their commitment to supporting these individuals, caregivers everywhere are finding the community they deserve. Because we can’t support others if we, ourselves, are not equally supported.
