I had an opportunity to participate in a holiday event put on by local organization called “Caregiver Christmas”. It was advertised as being for anyone who provides care for a family member. I was hesitant to sign up because, as a member of our support group said, I can afford to buy the things I need. Thinking about it further, I realized this event wasn’t about income, it was about the role I play as CarePartner and the burden it places on my life. It was about recognition for the life choices I make out of love. I decided to go ahead and register for the drive through event and am so glad that I did. 

The program was set up in a shed at the fairgrounds. As I entered the covered area, I was immediately overwhelmed by emotion. There were dozens of people dressed in holiday attire waving and thanking me for what I do. Tears started to flow down my cheeks. I drove through slowly and at the end of the line there was a huge table of gift bags volunteers were handing out to each participant. I rolled down my window and a woman asked if I needed one bag for a female. Being the good CarePartner that I am, I responded “No, I care for my husband, a male.” She looked me in the eye and said, “Oh, no honey, this is all about you.” I choked back my tears and drove on.

This event made me stop and think for a moment. I don’t often consider how things would be different if I weren’t here to care for my husband. What would he do and who would be doing it for him? Would he still be able to live independently or would he be in a senior housing facility? What impact does the support I provide have on our community as a whole? I am so thankful to the people who organized this event to remind me that what I do matters not only to my husband, but to others as well, something I don’t acknowledge enough.