Caring for someone with a chronic illness like MS can be deeply satisfying. Spouses and partners, family, and friends can be drawn more closely together by their shared concerns and collaborative efforts. But caregiving can also be physically and emotionally exhausting, particularly for the primary caregiver. While this is most often a partner or spouse, the primary caregiver may also be an adult child, parent, or friend. Whoever you are, remember that paying attention to your own health and well-being is essential to being able to care for someone else.
Caregiver Recognition Month takes place every November. The Chapter wants to acknowledge the dedication of caregivers; you are appreciated! Be sure to check the Chapter’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/NJMProgramsandServices and Twitter account @MSNJMetro in November to honor caregivers; give a shout out to your caregiver letting them know how much you appreciate them and all that they do for you!
Upcoming Caregiver Awareness Day Activities
What: Informative speakers, local resources, exhibitors, giveaways
When: Thursday, November 13, 2014, 4:30-7:30 pm
Where: Project Freedom of Hamilton, 715 Kuser Rd, Hamilton, NJ
RSVP: Michelle Smith at 732-262-8020, ex. 211 or msmith@njcaregivers.org
Presented By: Caregivers of New Jersey and Mercer County Caregiver Coalition
What: Ocean County Annual Caregiving Awareness Night
When: Tuesday, November 18, 2014, 4pm-7pm
Where: The Toms River Elks
RSVP: Michelle Smith at 732-262-8020, ex. 211 or msmith@njcaregivers.org
What: Monmouth County Caregiver Retreat
When: Saturday, November 15, 2014, 9am-2pm
Where: The Sheraton Hotel Eatontown
More information: Colleen Smith at Colleen.Smith@co.monmouth.nj.us
Be sure to check your local Caregiver Coalition to see about Awareness Days offered by you. To learn more about Caregiving Coalitions in NJ, view this link: http://njcaregivers.org/what-we-offer/caregiving-coalitions/.
Other resources for Cargivers:
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National Family Caregivers Association (NFCA)
Organization that educates, supports, empowers, and speaks up for the millions of Americans who care for chronically ill, aged, or disabled loved ones.
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Caregiver.com
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Well Spouse Foundation
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CaringBridge is a free one-stop shop that connects and updates communities of supporters on a person's ongoing health status, treatment, surgeries, progress in therapies and recovery. A personalized CaringBridge website helps keep loved ones informed during difficult times. In return, family and friends give support through guestbook messages.