Mental Health and IgG4-RD – Part Two: A Caregiver’s Perspective

Supporting a Loved One’s Mental Health Is Its Own Act of Strength

Last week, we shared a heartfelt conversation between Andy, a person living with IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) and his physician, Dr. John Stone, about the moment mental health became part of his care journey. This week, we continue the story—this time through the lens of his caregiver and partner.

In Part Two of our Mental Health Awareness Month series, Katharine—Andy’s wife, caregiver, and a clinical social worker—joins Dr. Stone to reflect on the deeply personal and complex role of recognizing a loved one's emotional decline and knowing when and how to step in.

"It's not always easy for us to broach those conversations and to say, 'You're not acting yourself. You're not yourself.'" - Katharine shares

Katharine reflects on the moment she realized something more was going on beyond the physical symptoms of the disease - and how carefully she worked with Andy to help him recognize it, too. With his permission, she reached out to Dr. Stone. That email became a turning point in Andy's care.

"I knew what was happening. I then got his permission to reach out to you, which was one of the most important steps I think that we took in his care." - Katharine

This email became a pivotal moment. Dr. Stone remembers:

"I thought, uh-oh...but then I breathed a sigh of relief. You were thinking exactly as I was thinking."

Together, they reflect on how important it was that Andy was part of the conversation – and that no discussions were held behind his back. They also speak honestly about how fragile a person can feel during a long diagnostic and treatment journey.