A Personal Message

November is National Family Caregivers Month.  The National Family Caregivers Association (NFCA), formed in 1993, began their outreach program to promote and identify the common bonds shared by more than 65 million Americans caring for loved ones.  Caregivers can be friends, or relatives or neighbors – anyone offering ongoing help to loved ones who are no longer able to care for themselves.  I have been a family caregiver since 2001; first, for my mom who passed away in 2003 and ever since, for my dad.  My parents had the resources for outside help, but the overall handling of their lives unexpectedly fell into my hands eleven years ago.

The NFCA offers support to caregivers who often feel very alone with their “duties” and overwhelmed by it all.  Very often caregivers will not ask for help, may neglect their own health, doubt that they are doing their own very best, and/or feel guilty about other responsibilities being ignored.

I bring this up on our blog not to be depressing, but to give voice to something important to me. This time of the year – the holiday season – can play havoc on the emotions of caregivers. I know this from my own experience.  I meet many people while working at Nest and Roots, and sometimes I recognize a fellow “hidden caregiver.”  When I do, I try to show a bit more sensitivity, kindness, and   patience – whatever I can to make it a better moment in that day for that person.  Believe me when I say that just that little bit of support can make a difference.

When I was researching the NFCA for this blog I was touched by their core Caring Every Day messages, meant for us caregivers:

Believe in Yourself.
Protect Your Health.
Reach Out for Help.
Speak Up for Your Rights.

Thanks for reading this and may you all experience kindness and caring in your lives.