Caregivers Count Vanessa Battista

It is no surprise that ALS affects not only the person who has it but also everyone who is a part of their life. This statement certainly is personified at each and every Support Group meeting through the interactions between the patients and their caregivers. As the facilitator of the ALS Educational Support Groups, one in New York City and now also one in Westchester, I have the unique privilege of getting to know several patients and their caregivers very well. At each meeting I am always impressed by the level of care that is provided and also the range of caregivers that come to the meetings, many on their own, proving that getting support is just as important for caregivers as it is for people who have ALS. Thus it is not only the patients who inspire me with their courage, enthusiasm, and seemingly endless vision of hope, but also their caregivers.

November is National Caregivers Month and even though one month hardly seems like enough time to commemorate all that our amazing caregivers do, I hope that you will recognize how significant your contribution is. Take some time to do something for yourselves. Even if it is something as simple as having coffee with a friend, going for a walk or shopping, going to the movies or the gym, or spending some quiet time alone, it is important to remember that taking care of yourself will allow you to take better care of others. I would also encourage you to attend one of our upcoming Support Group meetings where you can meet other caregivers and people living with ALS to exchange ideas, coping skills, and support. You may also find the following link to the National Caregivers Association’s website helpful for literature, materials, and other information:
www.familycaregiving101.org. Lastly, please feel free to contact me at 212-305-1677 or vb2109@columbia.edu for more information regarding the New York City or Westchester Support Group meetings. Otherwise, relax, enjoy the month, and know how much you are appreciated. Caregivers, thank you for all that you do.