November is National Family Caregivers Month

Nov 1, 2019

November is National Family Caregivers Month

National Family Caregivers Month – celebrated each November -- is a time to recognize and honor family caregivers across the country.

November is National Family Caregivers Month

Celebrating the efforts of family caregivers.
 
National Family Caregivers Month celebrated each November is a time to recognize and honor family caregivers across the country.
November 1, 2019

Caregiving can be a 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week job, so, this year’s theme is “Caregiving Around the Clock,” recognizing the challenges that family caregivers face and how they manage them day and night.

 
“Family members, friends, and neighbors devote countless hours to providing care to their relatives or loved ones. During National Family Caregivers Month, we recognize and thank the humble heroes who do so much to keep our families and communities strong.”
President Barack Obama,
NFC Month Proclamation 2012
 
This year, we pay tribute to Mary. A mom and caregiver who called Disability Rights California, concerned about her 8-year-old daughter Crystal’s well-being at school, and advocated for her to receive the proper care and support she needed.

Mary had numerous concerns regarding the support her daughter was receiving at school and primarily Crystal's school aid. First, the aide programmed Crystal's feeding machine incorrectly. Second, she noticed the aide unable to lift Crystal during transfer to and from her wheelchair. And lastly, the aide placed Crystal's oxygen cannula incorrectly before Crystal's hour-long bus ride, putting Crystal's health in danger.

Frustrated and concerned, Mary sought help for her daughter and called Disability Rights California (DRC). After speaking with a DRC advocate, it was recommended to set up an individualized education program (IEP) meeting to develop a plan for Crystal’s support services.

At the (IEP) meeting, a DRC advocate attended with Mary, giving examples of how the 1:1 aide’s physical limitations and errors were affecting the care Crystal was receiving.

Following this meeting, the District then changed Crystal’s 1:1 aid, ensuring Crystal received the appropriate care she needed while at school.

Mary was a champion mom and caregiver who stayed observant of the problems and persistent in advocating for her daughter.

We pay tribute to Mary and other caregivers like her, who provide compassionate care while enhancing the lives of their loved ones in need.

*Names have been changed to protect the privacy of individuals.

To learn more about self-advocacy view our fact sheets:

  • 15 Tips for Parent & Family Member Advocates

    This fact sheet includes tips to help you prepare for meetings, develop the best plan for your child or family member, and resolve conflicts that may arise in the process.

  • 15 Tips for Self-Advocates

    This fact sheet includes tips to help you prepare for meetings, develop a service plan, and resolve conflicts that may arise in the process.