Family Friend Neighbor Caregiver Who am I
I have met some of the most amazing professional caregivers. They have given time and more energy than I could ever muster to care for others. Their patience seems in constant supply– their knowledge of what to do in any circumstance is unbelievable.
I am not one of those! Never have been, never will be. When I began my caregiving website, I fought it because “I wasn’t a real caregiver.” I am amazed at what is now available and want others to know. We need each other!
There are more than 65 million Family Caregivers in this country who work day in and day out to provide care as no “outsider” could. They often work other jobs; have children and parents to care for at the same time; struggle with lack of finances and health issues of their own. Most have no previous experience apart from life experiences as they grew into adulthood.
Are you one of those? Do you know others who are?
November is National Family Caregivers Month. It’s a great time to reflect on your personal caregiving journey and, at the same time, to find ways to encourage others who are caring for friends and family.
Ask God to give you a sensitive spirit toward the needs of others even as you struggle with your own needs. If you are a caregiver yourself, you may not feel you can spare the time or energy to reach out to help another. I have found that in my busiest, most hectic days, there was always time to pray for someone else. That is the first step; open your eyes and heart and look for others who could use a prayer. Taking a few minutes to pray, call, or send a card moves the focus from self to others and tends to multiply your time.
The internet is overloaded with free helps. Consider encouraging a non-computer caregiver with an article on some issue they may be facing. My favorite site is www.familycaregiving101.com for dozens of free articles. I will soon provide more great sites to explore.
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Psalm 139:14
“We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.’ Ephesians 2:10
In your weary moments, I pray you’ll never lose sight of the fact that you are a very special and unique creation. Blessings to you as you continue to share the wonder of God’s love with others.
Hugs,
P.S. Click the button at the upper right corner of my website at www.susiekinslowadams.com and sign up for the newsletter; it will be helpful to you. I welcome your comments and questions. Have a blessed week.
I was caregiver to my mom, dad, and more recently, my husband. It was and is a truly rewarding experience. I am grateful for having had the opportunity to give back to loved ones. I love your blog and the work you do. It is rewarding to know you are there to encourage, advise, and offer helpful tips and resources.
Thank you.
Linda Della Donna
founder
Griefcase.net
Thank you, Linda, for your comments.
Your parents and husband were blessed I’m sure with your good attitude and care. It is a great opportunity to give back. Blessings to you as you continue reaching out to others.
Hugs, Susie
I was a caregiver to my quadriplegic mom, and then my father who had Alzheimers. It can certainly be a difficult road, physically and emotionally. It’s great that there is now lots of help and support for caregivers.
I agree with Linda, you’re providing valuable information and support to those who find themselves in a care giving situation.
Karen, thank you for sharing your comments. My, you certainly did gain a load of experience with your parents. I’m thankful you were able to be there for them. No one knows until they have been there what challenges are faced when it is your parents you are caring for.
I, too, am so thankful there is so much help available. I hope to be at least a beacon of light to help others find hope and help.
Blessings and hugs, Susie
This is a wonderful blog, Susie. I know it will be a source of encourage-
ment to caregivers when things get a bit overwhelming. I cared for my mom until she died and I thank God that I was able to do it at the time. May God richly bless you as you continue to inspire others.
Angela,
Thank you for leaving a comment and for your kind words.
Thank you for taking care of your own mother; what a blessing that can be, even in the most difficult times. You honored her and our Lord by being obedient to His leading.
Blessings and hugs, Susie
PS…I am bookmarking your blogs so I can read more of them soon. Very good.