After meeting hundreds (actually probably into the thousands now) of family caregivers, I have come to several firm conclusions:
Family caregivers deserve a holiday, a parade, and a free week on a private beach to rest and recuperate!
Even on their worst days, 99% of caregivers still care for their loved ones better than anyone else ever could.
Even as their worlds are flooded with often incomprehensible medical jargon, grim prognoses, and the declining health of their beloved, most family caregivers still live with uncommon grace, beauty, and hope.
So, I want to be a champion of caregivers! And, I ask you to do the same.
Think of someone you know who is caring for a family member with a chronic or serious condition and surprise them with appreciation. Perhaps you will offer direct encouragement or a card or a gift certificate or a unique and creative way to send a surge of hope and good energy into their world.
But just today for at least one family caregiver you know, find a way to say thank you. The only excuse you need is that it is National Caregiver Month and that you appreciate them.
Worth Repeating
There are only four kinds of people in this world–those who have been caregivers, those who are currently caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need caregivers.
-Rosalyn Carter
