CF Caregiving: A Husband’s Perspective
In this deeply personal episode, host Caleigh Haber sits down with her husband Bryan Takayama to explore the often-overlooked perspective of CF caregivers. Bryan, an entrepreneur and co-founder of Notion State, shares his decade-long journey from meeting Caleigh one year post-transplant to becoming her primary caregiver through organ rejection, a second double lung transplant, and their current nomadic lifestyle across the globe.
This conversation offers rare insight into the emotional, logistical, and relationship dynamics that define the caregiver experience. Bryan and Caleigh discuss the evolution from partner to caregiver, the challenges of balancing work and care responsibilities, and the delicate art of fostering independence while providing essential support.
Key Topics Covered:
- Transitioning from romantic partner to primary caregiver role
- Navigating disagreements with other family caregivers during critical decisions
- Balancing full-time work while managing complex medical care
- Developing organizational systems for medications, appointments, and emergency preparedness
- Fostering patient independence and empowerment within the caregiver relationship
- Coping strategies including compartmentalization and emotional management
Whether you're a caregiver seeking validation and practical advice, a patient wanting to better understand your support system, or a healthcare professional working with families, this episode provides valuable perspectives on the realities of long-term caregiving in the chronic illness community.
This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare team for medical decisions.
Creators and Guests
Host
Caleigh Haber-Takayama
I'm Caleigh Haber, a cystic fibrosis warrior, two-time double lung transplant recipient, and passionate advocate for the chronic illness community. Born with CF, I've navigated countless surgeries and medical challenges while choosing to live each day to the fullest in honor of my donors and with deep gratitude for my supportive community. Through Fight2Breathe and my podcast "Our Fight to Breathe," I advocate for the cystic fibrosis, organ transplant, and rare disease communities, working to raise awareness and inspire others to thrive despite their challenges.
Guest
Bryan Takayama
Bryan is married to the incredible Caleigh Haber Takayama, host of this podcast. As Caleigh's biggest champion, he's deeply committed to supporting the CF community both as a caregiver and advocate. With a background in process strategy and design, Bryan earned his degree from The Ohio State University and spent eight years in management consulting before launching his own operations consultancy. Through his firm, he helps businesses run more efficiently and achieve their operational goals. Bryan approaches life with enthusiasm and dedication, channeling his energy into creating the best possible life for Caleigh, himself, and their two beloved pups, Chiquito and Yuki.