A Calling and Passion
National Caregivers Month 2022
Unlike many adult-related diseases, childhood cancer is usually not something a family can predict. Cancer growing in a young person’s body doesn’t consider whether a future caregiver was at the height of their career, just decided where their forever home would be, or maybe finally got their dream vacation planned and ready to go. Even if you know with all your heart and soul that you would sacrifice anything to care for your precious child, it’s natural to feel like parts of your own personal life, career success, or lifestyle will never be the same again. In honor of the millions of courageous and selfless caregivers worldwide, let’s look at the unexpected role of the caregiver in a way you can make a personal and passionate connection with during this National Caregivers month 2022.
Your pre-diagnosis job/work was based on skills you cultivated over formal education and/or on-the-job experience. Now in the position of a caregiver of a critically-ill child with cancer, you have no learning curve. It’s “game on” right from diagnosis. Quickly stepping into the role of caregiver, you must learn and absorb new information on demand, which is daunting! A caregiver often provides medical, mental, and physical support without realizing it. You become an advocate for your child and their well-being and provide relentless and compassionate care and companionship. These are all crucial skills to bolster a child’s health and emotional well-being.
So to all the caregivers, your role can assume a sacrifice for yourself, but one that brings many rewards. The fact that you stepped up to the plate and released one phase of your life to accept another with open arms makes you a true hero. Your child, your world, and the universe will continue to always need the skills you have applied and acquired along the way of your caregiver journey.
“You’ve done it before, and you can do it now.
See the positive possibilities. Redirect the substantial
energy of your frustration and turn it into
positive, effective, unstoppable determination.”
-Ralph Marston
Are you a caregiver that needs support?
Here To Serve is here to help you! During this National Caregivers month 2022, we recognize you. As a caregiver, it’s okay to acknowledge you need help managing your role at home. If you are a family with a newly diagnosed cancer child or know of a family who finds themselves in this challenging situation, please contact Here to Serve. Please click on the Get Help button from our homepage.
By Sameera Rangwala, M.S., M.P.H
About the Author
Sameera Rangwala spent 15 years in the biotechnology industry. As a scientist and research professional, she uses her skills to blog and provides words of support to the cancer community.
All content in this blog is for informational and educational purposes only. Always consult a medical provider in your particular area of need before making significant changes in your medical decisions or lifestyle.