Join David’s Refuge as we celebrate National Caregiver Awareness Month all November. Each week, we will offer wellness tips, caregiver burnout education and increased awareness of what unpaid family caregivers experience each day. Being a full-time caregiver to a loved one requires selflessness most of us will never truly know until we are in the role ourselves. Learning how to care for yourself will provide you with the strength you need to continue to show up for those around you. 

 

David’s Refuge came into existence specifically to remind the caregivers who provide 24/7 care to their children with special needs of this important message. Unfortunately and understandably, self-care falls to the bottom of the extensive to-do list a caregiver faces each day. Did you know that caregiver fatigue leads to burnout, anxiety, depression, divorce and both physical and mental sickness? The daily uncertainty of your child’s diagnosis, the future and the constant struggle to get the basic help you need can be overwhelming.    

 

Because there are thousands of families in our local community who have a child with special needs or a life-threatening medical condition, David’s Refuge continues to grow. The organization works daily to provide respite, resources and support to caregivers. We focus on reminding these parents that they are not alone, that what they do matters and that they are loved by God and our community.  Our multi-service approach ensures that their entire family is accepted and reminded of the importance of self-care, wellness and community.

 

Our largest service offers caregivers a two-night experience at a beautiful bed and breakfast location where they have the freedom to reconnect as a couple and meet other caregivers. Additionally, we offer year-round community events for the whole family. Lastly, our Wellness programming offers caregivers support through Mental Health Services and more!  We intend to provide constant contact and community to caregivers so that they are reminded that self-care matters and is a necessity for their own health. Our vision is to empower these parents to have the tools to lead their families with strength and grace. We want our families to thrive!

 

When I started at David’s Refuge six years ago, I was encouraged by this mission and the people who had come alongside our founders and helped them bring their dreams to life. We are making a tangible impact and changing the lives of caregivers- and there is so much more to be done.  Do you know a caregiver who needs us or wants to learn more about our mission and how you can help?  At www.davidsrefuge.org, you will find information about all of our November activities, our application for services and of course a great place to donate in support of our services.   Together we will create impact, change lives and make this community a better place for all.