November is National Family Caregivers Month. It’s the time to recognize and honor family caregivers across the country. Although caregivers of people with Myasthenia Gravis are included, National Family Caregivers Month isn’t exclusive to only MG, but to anyone who provides care to someone with an acute or chronic condition.
By celebrating National Family Caregivers Month, we are able to:
- Raise awareness of family caregiver issues
- Celebrate the efforts of family caregivers
- Educate family caregivers about self-identification
- Increase support for family caregivers
- Reduce feelings of isolation
My entire family are my caregivers. Whether it’s putting up with me or helping me through difficult times, every member of my family has taken good care of me. They’ve been so supportive and are always there for me when I need them.
We often forget that caregivers are often are subjected to physical and mental wear and tear while taking care of us. We sometimes forget that our condition isn’t easy for them either. They would much rather see us healthy, but they have volunteered and invested their time and effort to help us. As recipients of their kindness, we need to make sure they know how much we appreciate them.
While stories of people with tragic or chronic conditions are frequently featured in the news, periodicals, podcasts and blogs, you rarely hear about the tireless efforts of their caregivers.
Everyone has heard the story of Christopher Reeve, the man that played Superman in the movies who tragically became paralyzed due to a fall off a horse. How many people can name his wife who tirelessly took care of him and provided him with the emotional support and strength through the remainder of his life? Her name is Dana Morosini, such a strong and amazing woman.
Everyone’s heard of Helen Keller, but how many of you can name the caregiver who taught Helen how to sign language and express herself in spite of being deaf and blind? It was Anne Sullivan. The name Helen Keller wouldn’t even be known without the amazing efforts of Anne Sullivan.
Let’s make sure we take the time during November to thank the caregivers of this world, be they your caregivers or caregivers of someone you know. They are the true heroes in the story of your journey. They are what keeps you going.
I want to especially thank all my caregivers, from my wife to my children, to my grandchildren. They keep me going. They make sure I’m safe. They make sure I’m doing the right things. They are always there for me.
It shouldn’t take a special month to honor and appreciate caregivers, but since it’s here, let’s take advantage of it.
Thank you to everyone who is a caregiver. We couldn’t be the person we are today without you.
For more information about National Family Caregivers Month, go to:
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