Meet the Author

For over 25 years, C.J. Shearer built a successful career in finance, rising to the role of Chief Financial Officer. However, a personal health crisis in 2013 reshaped her perspective. After facing a cancer scare, she embraced a new path—entrepreneurship. Launching a thriving dog care business that combined her passion for animals with her desire for independence.

Beyond her career, C.J. Shearer has been deeply committed to her community. As Vice Chair of her town’s Finance Committee, she assists in shaping its financial future, and through Enhancing Shirley, a town initiative she founded, she fosters pride, unity, and growth.

One of the most profound and personal roles in her life was becoming the primary caregiver for her father. What began as occasional assistance quickly evolved into a full-time responsibility. Managing his medical needs, ensuring his comfort, and striving to bring him joy was both a challenge and a privilege. Through this experience, she gained firsthand insight into the emotional, physical, and logistical struggles caregivers face. The overwhelming search for resources, the uncertainty of each decision, and the relentless effort to provide the best care inspired her to share her knowledge. Her hope is to help others navigate this journey with more confidence and support.

While her professional and community contributions are significant, her greatest joy comes from family. She is a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, cherishing the laughter and love of her four grandchildren. Their innocence serves as a daily reminder of life’s fragility and beauty.

Guided by her Christian faith, she has dedicated her life to serving others—whether through caregiving, leadership, or simply being a source of support. Her journey has been filled with challenges and triumphs, but above all, gratitude. She believes true fulfillment comes from making a difference, and she looks forward to continuing a life of purpose, service, and love.

About the author

Inspiration behind the book

Caring for my father was one of the most challenging and meaningful journeys of my life. What began gradually soon became full-time, requiring constant learning, adjusting, and doing my best to meet his needs. Cherishing those little moments of joy, and capturing his smile with cheerful eyes became my greatest mission.

I often felt overwhelmed, searching endlessly for answers I wished were at my fingertips. Neither of us realized how unprepared we were until we were fully emersed. This is why I created this workbook—to help others navigate this journey with more clarity, confidence, and peace of mind. Completing it provides your loved ones and caregivers with the most valuable tool: information. With less worry and more confidence, they can focus on what truly matters—being present with you.

Preparing for the possibility of dependence can feel overwhelming, but this book simplifies and organizes the process. With quick, easy-to-use tabs, you can retrieve essential information when you need it most. Your workbook covers every aspect of your life—from medical and financial details to end-of-life planning and your wishes after you are gone. Inside, you will also find supply lists, homeopathic remedies, recommended tools and equipment, practical guidance, and insights from my personal experiences. It ensures that everything important about you is clearly communicated and stored in one place.

Once completed, your Book of Wishes becomes your strongest advocate and loudest voice, ensuring your needs and choices are conveyed. Caring for a loved one in their final days is a profound privilege, and having the right tools can make all the difference for everyone.

Your book is more than a guide—it is a priceless gift. It will ease many burdens and struggles for your loved ones, offering support and sense of security when times may feel very uncertain.