Acworth Nonprofit Recognizes Family Caregivers

The Golden Soldiers recognizes that “family caregivers matter.”

And that's the theme for National Family Caregivers Month. In 1994, the National Family Caregivers Association began promoting the celebration of family caregivers during the week of Thanksgiving. President Clinton signed the first presidential proclamation in 1997 and every president since - Democrat and Republican alike - has issued an annual proclamation appreciating family caregivers. As interest grew in family caregiving issues, National Family Caregivers Week became National Family Caregivers Month.

Day in and day out, more than 65 million family caregivers in this country fulfill a vital role on the care team. No one else is in a better position to ensure continuity of care. Family caregivers are the most familiar with their care recipients’ medicine regimen; they are the most knowledgeable about the treatment regimen; and they understand best the dietary and exercise regimen.

“Fourteen percent of family caregivers care for a special needs child with an estimated 16.8 million caring for special needs children under 18 years old. 55% of these caregivers are caring for their own children,” according to National Alliance for Caregiving in collaboration with AARP - November 2009.

“Bless the families who support, nurture and provide for their children with special needs," said Lindsey Turner, CEO and Founder of The Golden Soldiers. "They work tirelessly often times without the resources or credit they deserve. These caregivers serve out of love and commitment to their loved ones in relative obscurity. This month, I ask that you join The Golden Soldiers as we recognize and honor their sacrifice.” 

For more information about National Family Caregivers Month, visit www.thefamilycaregiver.org.

Editor's note: This was prepared by Alisa Bennett-Hart of The Golden Soldiers.