Caring for the caregiver: Cansa Care Month
No first-time caregiver knows what to do as no journey with cancer is the same and there are no rules and regulations to follow,
Submitted by Anil Sookraj
Caregivers play an integral part in any cancer survivor’s journey, and in acknowledgement and recognition of the mammoth task and responsibility that falls on the shoulders of these individuals, CANSA has declared August 2017 CANSA Care Month, with special focus on caregivers. #CANSAcares
See these websites for more information
– https://www.cansa.org.za/caring-for-the-caregiver/
– https://www.cansa.org.za/sorg-vir-die-versorger/
Most caregivers don’t choose this role, but it is one that is suddenly thrown upon their shoulders when a family member, loved one or colleague becomes afflicted by this disease and urgently needs support and care.
No first-time caregiver knows what to do as no journey with cancer is the same and there are no rules and regulations to follow, however CANSA is able to offer knowledge, information, support and encouragement whenever required.
The wellbeing of every caregiver is important but sometimes compassion fatigue sets in which results in the individual no longer caring for themselves at the expense of caring for someone else.
Known as caregiver burnout, this condition is the culmination of stress, emotional exhaustion, de-personalisation and low self-esteem.
A myriad of emotions transpire in the Caregiver’s role and according to CANSA it is essential that the fears and stresses are dealt with sooner rather than later. CANSA knows the importance of connecting caregivers with others walking a similar path.
To this end we have a Facebook Support Group for caregivers of cancer patients. Please join our CANSA Caring for the Carers group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/CANSACaregivers/
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