Emotional Depth Caregivers Experience in Spin Cycle

Interview with Alfredo Botello: Author, Caregiver, and Advocate

Betsy’s guest is Alfredo Botello, an award-winning novelist, screenwriter, Fulbright Fellow, Nicholl Fellow, and caregiver for his mother, Lisa. Alfredo also co-owns two bars in Oakland, California. He is the author of 180 Days and Spin Cycle: Notes From a Reluctant Caregiver.

Alfredo’s novel, Spin Cycle, has received praise for its emotional depth. Barry Hertz of The Globe and Mail describes it as “An intimate yet epic journey digging into the messy truths and secrets connecting parents and their children.”

Alfredo also contributed a chapter to Wellness Through Words, a multivocal anthology on healthcare, patient safety, and wellness. The book became an Amazon Best Seller, with proceeds benefiting homeless shelters for women and children. His chapter, titled Parenting a Parent: Entering Their Reality, offers a raw and honest perspective on caregiving.

In this fascinating interview, Alfredo and I delve into the meaning behind his chapter title, Parenting a Parent: Entering Their Reality, as well as the themes explored in Spin Cycle. We talk about the emotional journey of caregivers—ranging from anger, guilt, and resentment to feelings of helplessness—and how many caregivers are reluctant to share their true feelings.

We discuss the importance of caregivers entering their loved one’s world, sharing my personal experience when Matt was hallucinating and how I navigated that difficult situation. The main character of Spin Cycle, Ezra, starts a caregiver support group to find solidarity, share knowledge, and become a more successful caregiver.

Our conversation also touches on the often challenging process of obtaining a proper diagnosis for a loved one and how caregivers often lack guidance from doctors. Alfredo and I agree that education plays a crucial role in caregiving, and we emphasize the importance of showing ourselves grace and compassion when we inevitably make mistakes.

Alfredo wants readers to know they are not alone in their experiences of confusion, frustration, and the complex emotions that come with accepting a loved one’s diagnosis. We also highlight the significance of human touch and love in the caregiving process, as well as the challenge that men often face when it comes to asking for help and seeking support.

This interview is both informative and engaging, providing insight into Alfredo’s experiences as a caregiver, as well as my own. Spin Cycle will be released on January 14, 202.  Betsy highly recommends visiting Alfredo Botello’s website to explore more of his work and accomplishments