Honoring our Caregivers
Pfizers’ “This is Living With Cancer” web site contains resources and information for caregivers. Image credit: Pfizer
November is…National Family Caregivers Month
The majority of those impacted by lung cancer are aware November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, but in 2014 President Barack Obama created a proclamation to recognize National Family Caregivers Month in the month of November too.
Statistically speaking, it is estimated that 4.6 million people in the US alone care for someone with cancer in their home. Typically, these caregivers are ill-prepared for this demanding role and only a third of caregivers report being asked by a health care provider what they need to care for their loved one. Even fewer are asked what they need to care for themselves. This lack of preparation and consideration increases the anxiety that caregivers already feel.
Caregiving for a loved one is a high-risk occupation linked to diminished quality of life, depression, impaired immunity, heart disease, and early death. Lifestyle and social isolation are very common.
A cancer diagnosis is a shared journey impacting the entire family.
It is a MUST for family & caregivers to put a support system in place and prioritize self-care!
During the month of November, as we reflect on educating the public and bringing awareness to lung cancer, let all of us impacted by and living with lung cancer also give thought to our families & caregivers. Recognition, inclusion, appreciation, gratitude, and support are simple, but often overlooked ways to say “Thank You”. Consider planning a way to celebrate your families & caregivers.
President Obama noted “Each day, courageous individuals step forward to care for family members, their quiet acts of selflessness and sacrifice telling a story of love and devotion. Across our country, parents and children, siblings and spouses, friends and neighbors heroically give of themselves to support those in their lives affected by illness. We salute the people who play difficult and exhausting roles, and we recommit to lifting them up as they care for their loved ones while protecting their dignity and individuality”.
Caregiver Resources (click on each to access their web pages)
• ALK Positive Caregiver Support Group – managed by ALK Positive Support Group Admin
• The National Alliance for Caregivers
• US Department of Health & Human Services
Author: Rhonda Meckstroth, Lung Cancer Advocate/Caregiver; Administrator, ALK Positive Support Group