Growing old is no walk in the park, something most people don’t understand
until it’s their time. But Michelle Meyer does. She’s always had a knack for helping
the elderly and those in need. So when she lost her corporate gig during the Covid crisis, it was the perfect time to chase her real passion.
It all began when Michelle Meyer was looking after her dad, Izak, who suffers from dementia. She saw first-hand how much the elderly crave companionship … a listening ear, a gentle touch and a comforting voice. The little things that make a big difference.
But before Michelle Meyer could spread her wings, she first had to hustle to support her family. She sold beauty products, Tupperware, even dabbled in real estate.
“My life took an unexpected turn when I lost my job after 15 years. Managing on just my husband’s income was tough. It was then that my entrepreneurial spirit, which had been dormant for so long, finally blossomed.”
It wasn’t long before Meyer Care came to life. Driven by her motto of showing kindness, compassion and empathy, Michelle was on a mission to create a business that would not only provide care, but also offer a sense of family and belonging to those under her watch.
For her caregiving isn’t just about ticking off tasks. It’s about “making everyone feel like a someone. No matter where they come from or what their story is. Treating everyone with respect and love is non-negotiable.
“I will always heed to call of the elderly, the vulnerable and the sick. Because that’s where my heart is. One thing we tend to forget is that literally everyone is human, with feelings, and in need of love and attention.”
That’s what her business is all about … being a friend, having meaningful conversations, and handling the day-to-day stuff like driving, cooking, and ensuring home safety. It’s all about making life easier and more connected.
Michelle knows that age is just a number, and we’re as young as we feel and act. But when someone seems to be having a tough time taking care of themselves, it might be a hint that they need some extra TLC. That’s where she steps in. Whether it’s offering a hug, a prayer, or simply some companionship to terminally ill patients, she’s there to make a difference.
“Something more people need to realise is that you don’t need a company to succeed. Just will power. When you realise that, it’s so much easier to just jump in, do your thing, and help others in the process!”
At home, she’s your typical mom next door, who loves soaking up special moments with her husband, Wayne, and their three kids, 10-year-old Ethan, and six-year-old twins Gemma and Caleb. But it’s not only her family that brings her joy. You will also find her with a paintbrush in hand every so often. Because she’s oh so passionate about all kinds of art and the pretty things in life. Not to mention the tasty things too … she adores whipping up the most delish meals and sweet treats for her family.
When she’s not at home, you’ll most probably find her in nature, and perhaps even lacing up her sneakers for a well-deserved run.
“When it comes down to it, my family means the world to me. And getting so much as a hug from them will always make my day. Without them I wouldn’t have been where I am today. I truly am so grateful and blessed.”
Juggling the roles of wife, mom, entrepreneur, and caregiver might seem like a tall order, but Michelle’s got it down to a tee. For Michelle it’s all about finding that intricate balance (checklist in hand) … of giving each aspect the attention and love it deserves.
“The three most important lessons I learned through taking care of the elderly is firstly, to take risks. Don’t be afraid. Embrace every opportunity to grow and learn. Secondly; live in the moment. Life moves quickly. They understand the importance of not getting too caught up in the future and instead living in the present. Lastly … don’t sweat the small stuff. Life is too short to worry about the little things. Don’t get too worked up over every little thing and instead focus on the bigger picture.”
Through her work with the elderly and vulnerable, she’s learned invaluable lessons about the importance of cherishing every moment and caring for one another.
Details: Follow @Meyer Care on Facebook
Michelle’s top 3 daily stretches
Ageing can take a toll on the body, but stretching is a great way to reduce aches, loosen up muscles and relax your joints. Here are three of Michelle’s favourite stretches that will keep you active and healthy.
Standing quadriceps stretch
• Make sure you limber up before stretching by doing some light walking around.
• Grab a chair or the back of a couch for support, as you will be balancing on one leg for this exercise. The heavier the support, the better.
• Hold on to the chair with your left hand. Bend your right knee, and, using your right hand, grab your leg by the ankle and gently pull your foot towards your bottom.
• Hold this position for 10 to 30 seconds, let your leg back down and repeat with your left leg.
Seated Knee to Chest
• Like the last exercise, limber up a bit by doing some light walking to warm up your legs.
• Sit comfortably in your chair, and while seated, grasp your right knee and slowly pull it towards your chest.
• Once you feel the stretching sensation, hold this position for 10 to 30 seconds.
• Gently guide your leg back down to the floor and repeat this exercise with your other leg.
Hamstring Stretch
• Select a firm surface to sit on.
• Next, extend one of your legs out on the surface.
• Slowly lean forward, breathe and reach for your thigh, knee or ankle. (Be careful with this stretch as you do not want to hyperextend your hamstring). Next, hold this position for 10 to 30 seconds and gently lay your leg back down and repeat with the other side of your body.
Text: ALANICKA LOTRIET. • Photographer: SHAUN-DOUGLAS STEYNBERG. • Make-up & hair: STEFANIE PAYENDEE.
