Subscribe
CAREGIFTED is an amazing story. Heather McHugh, poet/author of eight volumes of poetry, a book of essays and other published writings is the Milliman Distinguished Writer-in-Residence at the University of Washington. In 2009 she received an MacArthus Fellows Program award – an unrestricted $500,000 five-year fellowship given to talented individuals who have shown extraordinary originality and dedication in their creative pursuits. There are absolutely no strings attached, and Heather has used her money to found CAREGIFTED. CAREGIFTED helps “enabling angels” – the weariest of caregivers: ones who have been at it for more than a decade, and who have had to give up their own professions, ambitions, income, wishes and needs for the duration, and for the sake of others. Over a 2-year pilot program, the organization hopes to provide week-long all-expense-paid fully – concierged getaways (transportation, lodging, food etc) for 24 exhausted people unlikely ever to be able otherwise to take such a break.
As a caregiver myself, I luckily have had the chance for respite. However, this thoughtful and inspiring program helps to recharge and re-inspire a caregiver who otherwise NEVER gets time off (or any pay for) his or her work at home with disabled loved ones. What other ways can caregivers get a break? Any ideas to share? written by Norma
