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I am a caregiver
of someone with MS
Caring for someone you love – someone
who has multiple sclerosis – is a role that many people
assume willingly and without question. Whether you are a spouse,
partner, family member or friend providing care on a regular
basis to someone with MS, your role is an important one and
means a great deal to the person with MS.
The bond between a person with a chronic
disease such as MS and the person who provides care, can be
very strong and very positive. At the same time, caregiving
can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Some caregivers
may feel that they have no time for their own needs and interests.
They may feel guilty for being occasionally resentful or angry
over life with MS, or for thinking about their own well-being
when the person they care deeply for is dealing with multiple
sclerosis.
No matter the extent of your caregiving,
it is critical that you do not neglect your own self-care.
The MS Society recognizes the incredible contribution that
caregivers make to the fight against MS at a personal level
and we are committed to supporting you.
The MS Society can be a valuable source of
information about multiple sclerosis and provide resources and
support group contacts for caregivers like yourself, to help
you effectively manage the ongoing stress of providing care.
For information on possible caregiver resources
in your area, contact your MS Society division office at 1-800-268-7582
or visit In Your Community
to locate the nearest MS Society office to you.
Visit our section on Multiple
Sclerosis to learn more about the disease including information
on symptoms and tips for living with MS.
Other useful resources for caregivers:
On June 4th, 2008 in partnership with the Care-ring Voice Network the MS Society of Canada offered a national tele-learning session that connected caregivers and families to information and support. Here is the presentation and biographies from this call for your information.
MS
in focus magazine - Caregiving and MS
Caregiver
Profiles - Caregivers from
across the country share their personal experiences of caring
for someone living
with MS.
A
Guide for Caregivers - This guide provides information on
practical issues faced by caregivers. A resource list is included.
Taking Care:
Resources for Caregivers -
Provides caregivers with useful insights and resources to help
manage their important
role as a caregiver.
Balancing Work and Caregiving: Tips for
Employees
Services for you and your family
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