Who here recognizes this statement: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by our Creator with certain inalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”
A one-sentence statement bespeaking basic human dignity – considered an act of treason in 1776 – set the stage for the U.S. Declaration of Independence. I dare to propose the same on behalf of weary caregivers everywhere who equally possess indisputable rights.
Like All Great Manifestos…
Consider that what I am unapologetically asserting is akin to the greatest inspirational pieces in history. “I have a dream…” Wikipedia defines the term manifesto as a published verbal declaration of the intentions, motives, or views of the issuer. This includes promoting a new idea with prescriptive notions for carrying out the changes the author believes should be made. The online dictionary has that one right!
Like Famous Movie Lines…
Something needs to shift – and fast – in the treatment caregivers of aging parents receive from bureaucratic and bullying institutions, organizations and consumer service providers who road-block at every turn (i.e., healthcare, legal, insurance, financial, automobile, real estate, funeral and others). Who here can place this vocal outcry: “I’m mad as hell, and I’m not going to take this anymore!” If you pinned Peter Finch’s iconic line from the 1976 film Network, you’ve got it.
It’s High Time for COMPLETE Support toward Caregivers!
I hereby call forth all caregivers to demand COMPLETE attentiveness to OUR needs. Famous for my love of acronyms, allow me to define at a high level what COMPLETE means in my world:
CARING = feeling valued
OPENNESS = willingness to work with (not against) you
MATURITY = not being a game-player
PARTNERSHIP = a spirit of give-and-receive collaboration
LOYALTY = dedication to stand up for you
EXCELLENCE = striving to be one’s best
TRIBE = those in a service role ‘get’ you
EXACTING = demonstrating impeccable standards of precision
Stay Tuned for the Meaning of SUPPORT
Next time, you’ll learn what total SUPPORT toward those attempting to advocate on behalf of aging parents actually entails. Suffice it is to say, those actions and behaviors are the polar opposite of the downright abuse adult-children Sandwich Generation members regularly endure.
Until you hear from me anew, you might want to tune into my radio show, The Conscious Caregiver, at www.boldbravemedia.com. My theme on May 1st will focus upon “Caregiver Health: It’s a Matter of Life and Death”.
Credit: National Archives is the original source for the posted image, even if in the public domain.
Carol-Ann Hamilton
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