How do I handle a long gap on my résumé? (update)

I took time out to care for a family member after working as a mechanic. I have done some volunteering and a course during that time. What do you say in interviews?

Thanks for writing this out. I went through something close to it 8 months ago, and it settled down once I kept a simple log of every call and form.

Keep everything in writing and save the confirmation numbers. It made the follow-up calls so much easier.