Letter to the Editor: Please thank a caregiver and continue supporting them

Since 1997, National Family Caregivers Month has been observed in November to recognize the many individuals who compassionately and humbly care for others and to draw attention to the many challenges they face.

Grandparents stepping forward to protect and nurture children, and relatives care for other family members are tremendous sacrifices. Taking on the primary responsibility, a caregiver’s dedication and commitment often put their own health and financial security at risk. Add in the lingering pandemic and the challenges caregivers confront are now even greater.

Family caregivers deserve our praise, respect, and utmost support for their efforts to provide a safe, secure, and loving environment for children, grandparents, parents, family members with disabilities, and others. Whether it’s providing a roof over their heads or assistance with meals, transportation, medicine, or simply companionship, those receiving care profoundly need and benefit from the unconditional love and selfless support they receive.

This is the time and season for all citizens to recognize and thank grandparents and other relative caregivers everywhere for the many valuable contributions they make to our lives, our families, our community and to our society. We must continue to push for the availability of services and support caregivers at the local, state, and national levels to promote their wellbeing.

Katie M. Johnson
Quinton