Caregivers

Caregiving is not a role people usually choose. It seems to choose us, emerging from events and circumstances beyond our control.  Spinal cord injury, debilitation or sudden illness may come without warning.

This is a job that cannot be skirted and cannot always be delegated. It can be difficult, physically and emotionally. It can be time-consuming. While caring for loved ones can be enormously satisfying, there are days, it seems, that offer little reward.

Caregivers, the men and women who care for family members and loved ones, deserve to be recognized and supported for the vital part they play in the lives of people with paralysis.

Caregivers may work in isolation from others in similar circumstances but they share much in common. It is important that caregivers connect with each other, to gain strength and to know that they are not alone.

It is essential that caregivers know about tools -- the homecare products and services -- that might make their jobs easier. It's also important that caregivers are aware of community and public resources that offer assistance.

Caregivers also need to know that support and respite systems exist to address the well-being and health of caregivers themselves.

The caregivers links (click on Recommended Web Sites in the right column) connect to several national organizations addressing the concerns of caregivers, including resources for hiring and managing personal care attendants.