The Long Fade to morning

"The Long Fade to Morning is a tender tribute to the quiet, complex tension that arises when we are both caregiver and loved one. This dual role, so common yet so rarely discussed, unfolds mostly behind closed doors—often in silence. There is healing when shedding light on this kind of experience naming the loneliness, the fatigue, and the aching love that coexist in the space between holding on and letting go. For those walking the long road of care and anticipatory grief, this story offers more than comfort. It offers companionship, validation, and a kind of gentle courage. 

The Long Fade to Morning doesn’t try to fix or simplify the pain. Instead, it honors it—and in doing so, gives hope."

"This book captures the quiet heroism of caregiving in all its beauty and heartbreak. As a family physician, I’ve witnessed many families rise to the challenge of caring for loved ones—often at great personal cost. Laurie’s story is a deeply honest, compassionate reflection on what it means to show up when it’s hardest. It honors not only her mother’s extraordinary devotion, but also the complex emotional terrain of becoming the caregiver for the one who once cared for you."    

"The Long Fade to Morning" is a must-read for anyone navigating the complex realities of the sandwich generation—caring for aging parents while raising children. With honesty and grace, Laurie Barr offers a deeply personal and unflinchingly real account of walking alongside a loved one through serious illness and the final chapters of life. Her words gave voice to experiences I thought were mine alone and offered comfort, clarity, and guidance. I came away feeling seen, strengthened, and more prepared to ask the questions that matter most as I walk this path with my own parent."

“This book fully takes on the complexity of the parent child relationship with all  the dynamics of navigating the medical silos on which our healthcare system is based. It tells the story of one daughter who struggles to advocate on her mother’s behalf not only medically, but physically, mentally, and emotionally. For some who have experienced this emotional roller coaster, they will relate to being a champion for their loved one and their wishes in  the end!”    

"Reading this book was like walking beside someone through a storm—raw, relentless,  and real. It gave voice to the silent strength of child turned caregiver and illuminated the honoring of a beautiful relationship in every hard-earned breath of love and endurance."

"Through raw emotion and moments of grace, this book offers a powerful reflection on love, loss, and what it means to show up for someone at the end of their life. A poignant and unforgettable read."    

"It is not always easy to be frank about your experiences as a caregiver. This book is a testament to what a caregiver has to go through to give the best care to a loved one. She captured all the ups and downs of caregiving with honesty, humor and compassion, caring and lots of love."

 “The Long Fade to Morning is an honest, well written and accessible book for all unexpected caregivers. The author does a superb job chronicling her journey and the process of her mother’s decline and ultimate diagnosis. This book is a much-needed resource for families who are struggling to find understanding and support with a difficult to diagnose illness. Barr’s thoughtful and candid narrative about her situation is both honest and relatable. I highly recommend it!”    

"A story of heartbreak, devotion and grace as one walks through the slow unravel of a disease that robs, while finding the beauty in letting go in love."    

"Laurie's words gave a voice to the ache of absence and the complicated beauty of love at the end of life. Beautifully written and her mom would be so proud."