National Family Caregivers Month is celebrated in November to recognize the 50 million Americans who provide care and medical assistance to loved ones. The month aims to increase support for caregivers, protect their well-being, and raise awareness about the issues they face.
Many wheelchair users rely on care support to lead healthy and independent lives. Here are some of their stories.
‘It’s OK to care for each other. It’s OK to need each other.’
“One thing that comes from constantly needing help is the level of intimacy—the jokes, the conversations and the interdependence of helping each other as we plot out the day—that occurs with your partner or friends because you’re always in close spaces,” says Kam Redlawsk.
“These are the moments nondisabled people don’t think of when they only look at me as a victim or burden and my husband as the ‘hero.’ It’s OK to care for each other. It’s OK to need each other.”
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Got questions? Ask away
“It’s two of your favorite caregivers here to celebrate National Family Caregivers Month! Are we using this as an excuse to post a bunch of our favorite moments together? YES! But we’re also excited to answer any questions you have about caregiving and relationships,” says United Spinal board member Charisma Sydnor.
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‘We see the challenges you face, and we honor you.’
“In honor of National Family Caregiver Month, we sincerely thank all caregivers. At Shepherd Center, we understand the journey of caring for a loved one with a life-changing injury or illness—the strength, patience, and endless compassion it take,” says Shephard Center, one of United Spinal’s hospital partners.
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‘Throughout all the highs and lows.’
“You dove headfirst into learning what it means to be a partner of someone living with spinal cord injury. You’ve had to navigate some really difficult situations and have had to wear many, many different hats,” says Sam Scribner about his partner Katarina.
“I’m so grateful for your tenacity and ambition to be the best at whatever it is you’re doing.”
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Physical and emotional support
“This #NationalFamilyCaregiversMonth, I’m giving a big shout out to my parents for helping me navigate life with #ALS,” says Brooke Eby.
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Join our Care Support Working Group to collaborate with advocates from across the United States. Together, we identify policy and advocacy initiatives to improve care support services for people with disabilities. Check out all of our caregiving resources.