Episode 43 - A Well-Watered Garden with Cynthia Fantasia

Date: Tuesday, August 13, 2024

Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Cynthia Fantasia

 

Story Highlight: Welcome to The Women Behind the Words! We are thrilled to bring you one of our most impactful interviews to date. As I chatted with Cynthia Fantasia, her soothing voice and profound sense of contentment and peace resonated throughout our conversation.

Cynthia spent ten years teaching in a prestigious school district in Lexington, MA, and loved every moment of it. One night, her pastor called with an invitation to join the church staff as the Pastor of Women. Initially, she declined, content with her current position. However, after 18 months of wrestling with God, she realized this was His plan for her future. She faithfully served her church for the next 25 years until she felt God calling her to retire, not from ministry, but from her role as Pastor of Women.

Shortly after her retirement, Cynthia faced a life-changing moment when her husband Bob was diagnosed with an aggressive form of Alzheimer’s Disease. This devastating news altered their lives forever. Her experiences with Bob's illness and her role as his caregiver are beautifully detailed in her book, "In the Lingering Light," and she shares these insights with us in this episode.

Cynthia's story is conveyed through the beauty of the Lord and His faithfulness. She organizes her life journey into two simple, poignant lists, making her interview one of the most powerful episodes we have ever aired.

Listening to Cynthia recount her husband's last words will erase any doubt, uncertainty, or fear you may have about facing challenging times. We are reminded that we serve a Living God who never leaves us alone. Even in our darkest moments, God is our Lingering Light.

 

About the Guest (Bio): Cynthia Fantasia served as Pastor of Women at Grace Chapel in Lexington, MA, for 25 years. Now enjoying a 'busy' retirement, she dedicates her time to mentoring younger women in ministry and speaking in various settings.

Cynthia has a deep passion for helping people grow in their faith and leadership. She joyfully serves on the Board of Leadership Transformations and speaks both nationally and internationally. Her first book, "In the Lingering Light," chronicles her husband's journey through Alzheimer’s Disease and her role as his caregiver.

Additionally, Cynthia is a contributing author in several books and has written numerous Bible studies that are used in churches across the country. She has three adult children and five grandchildren. Cynthia enjoys long walks, great books, time by the ocean, and seeing the world through the eyes of her grandchildren.

 

Book Spotlight: In the Lingering Light: Courage and Hope for the Alzheimer’s Caregiver by Cynthia Fantasia

Alzheimer’s is a particularly cruel disease, slowly and subtly robbing us of the people we love. Our love is tested as their needs increase while their recall decreases. Our own needs often suffer neglect as more of our time and attention is given to our loved ones.

Cynthia Fantasia is a caregiver who has walked this challenging path. In her deeply understanding and empowering book, In the Lingering Light: Courage and Hope for the Alzheimer’s Caregiver, she guides readers through the landscape of caregiving—both for their loved ones and for themselves.

Fantasia introduces readers to friends and fellow travelers who offer their own words of empathy and insight, creating a supportive community within the pages. Through her narrative, she empowers caregivers to live well, despite the heavy demands of caring for someone with Alzheimer’s.

This book is a beacon of hope and a source of strength for those navigating the difficult journey of Alzheimer’s caregiving. Fantasia’s compassionate approach provides the encouragement needed to maintain personal well-being while offering the best care possible for loved ones.

 

Connect with Cynthia:

Website

Email

Facebook

Youtube