When the symptoms of Parkinson’s get really troublesome, we first think of the person with the disease.
But think of the love, sacrifice, and hard work of the families we celebrate during this National Caregivers Month — the families of Parkinsonians, who are also facing these troubling times.
Without the constant compassion and strength of these caregivers, 1.5 million people would battle Parkinson’s alone.
If you’re a caregiver, let me thank you for your commitment and love. They’re amazing gifts — and indispensable.
I must say this on behalf of every partner in APDA’s struggle against the uncertainty of this disease: Caregivers are the backbone of the Parkinson’s community.
No one else on the care team is better equipped to ensure consistency of care. No one else is more familiar with their loved one’s medicine, treatment and exercise regimens.
But, as incredible as they are, caregivers cannot do it alone. Caring for someone with Parkinson’s can be more than a full-time job, and caregivers need help to get the resources they need.
That’s why the APDA Information and Referral Centers you support are so vital. So are APDA support groups. Caregivers need to know they’re not all alone. They need to meet other caregivers and share advice, comfort and stories.
Celebrating Caregivers!
Joel Miele,Sr.,P.E.
Chairman
American Parkinson Disease Association
