Time to honor Veterans’ caregivers

During National Family Caregivers Month, we reaffirm our support for those, like the wife of the Navy Veteran pictured above, who give of themselves to be there for their family in challenging times.

A Marine Corps Veteran’s wife tells of the honor and the challenges

On November 11^th we honor our nation’s Veterans. Did you know the entire month of November is also National Family Caregivers Month? National Family Caregivers Month is a time to recognize and honor family caregivers for their valuable contributions. Celebrating family caregivers during November enables all of us to raise awareness of the issues caregivers face, especially those who care for Veterans.

I have been inspired to serve this community of “hidden heroes.”Edit date and time

I am the proud caregiver to my husband SSGT Stephen Comeau who medically retired from the Marine Corps in 2013. When he transitioned from the Wounded Warrior Battalion to VA in Long Beach we had a warm handoff that placed us in the program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers.

Our case manager, Greg Garcia, and our caregiver support coordinator, ZsaZsa Sanders, were extremely welcoming and supportive during our transition to the VA medical system. This program allowed me to be an actively engaged participant in my husband’s care and recovery while also providing me with valuable assistance, including mental health support.

Being a family caregiver is an honor, but it comes with many challenges. Throughout my experiences with the VA and with my caregiving peers, I have been inspired to serve this community of “hidden heroes.”

I am grateful for my appointment to the Federal Advisory Committee for Veterans Families, Caregivers and Survivors. Under the leadership of Senator Elizabeth Dole and other esteemed committee members, we hope to continue to improve the caregiving journey for all Veteran family caregivers.

This November when you are thanking our Veterans for their service, please be sure to also thank the family caregivers in their lives.

Melissa Comeau is a member of the Federal Advisory Committee for Veterans Families, Caregivers and Survivors.