By Christine Savard, Communications Lead, FCBC
As we bid farewell to our esteemed Caregiver Support Manager, Lycia Rodrigues, we express our deepest appreciation for her remarkable contributions to Family Caregivers of BC (FCBC). Over the past seven years, Lycia’s dedication and innovative spirit have profoundly impacted caregivers, volunteers, and staff. She has fostered meaningful connections, empowered programs, and enhanced support for caregivers across British Columbia. In this interview, Lycia reflects on her invaluable experiences and achievements at FCBC.
What was rewarding about your role as Caregiver Support Manager?
Real human connections and meaningful relationships are what I value most in life, so this role provided a wonderful opportunity to experience these daily with caregivers, volunteers, and our FCBC staff. Engaging with the stories and histories of the caregivers was deeply fulfilling. I believe that the stories we tell, both to ourselves and others, shape the quality and direction of our lives. I also believe in the value of vulnerability. One of my milestones while working at FCBC was the opportunity to connect with caregivers in a space of vulnerability and even fear, while encouraging caregivers to connect with their own needs, dreams, and creative healing journeys.
Receiving feedback from caregivers who attended our programs was particularly rewarding. Many noted an increased sense of belonging and community engagement, especially through our peer-support groups, journal workshops, and art therapy programs.
Can you share some of the key projects and collaborations you are proud of?
In these past seven years, I learned firsthand that caregiving can be socially and spiritually isolating. This inspired me to create and facilitate our Circle of Care (CoC) psychosocial tool, which helped more caregivers engage directly with FCBC’s services. I was particularly pleased by the financial support we received to train other providers in BC to use this tool, empowering them to strengthen informal support networks with friends, extended family, and the community.
Collaborating with community agencies to enhance caregiver support was a top priority when I began my role as Caregiver Support Manager. It has been gratifying to contribute to numerous successful partnerships. Additionally, I’ve had the opportunity to use my creativity to organize meaningful caregiver activities across the province.
How do you think your work has impacted the caregivers and their families?
I believe my work has facilitated social interactions among caregivers and helped them explore new skills, knowledge, and resources. I connected with caregivers silently dealing with trauma, guilt, and shame, encouraging them to share their experiences and feelings. This support helped them feel validated, empowered, and more aware of their needs and well-being.
What will you miss most about working with the caregivers and your team at FCBC?
I will miss the deep connections with our volunteers, caregivers, and the FCBC team. These connections fill my heart, and I cherish them deeply. I’ll also miss the weekly meditation gatherings and sharing vulnerable moments at our office in Victoria.
Is there a message you would like to share with the caregivers and the community as you move on?
My work at FCBC has shown me that our soul takes us into depths we can’t imagine from the surface. This journey of coordinating support groups and offering one-on-one support has been incredibly enriching. I am invigorated by the stories of caregivers and their experiences of hope and connection. I am grateful for the deep connections I’ve made, and I have been humbled and inspired to see caregivers move toward self-compassion and greater well-being.
As Lycia concludes her journey at FCBC, her legacy of compassion and dedication leaves a lasting impact. Her ability to foster genuine connections, innovate programs, and advocate for caregiver support has been transformative. Lycia, your impact will continue to resonate in the hearts of those you’ve touched. We wish you all the best in your future endeavours and thank you for the profound difference you’ve made at FCBC.