One of our favorite quotes from William Shakespeare states, “Be not afraid of greatness. Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and others have greatness thrust upon them.” Those who care for their disabled loved ones are achieving greatness every day. The role of caregiver is demanding and often comes without breaks. However, caring for a disabled loved one is one of the most important and noblest jobs you can have. If you didn’t know already, you’re in good company with these famous caregivers.
Famous Caregivers in History
Mother Teresa
When most people think of selflessness, Mother Teresa usually comes to mind. She may be one of the most well-known, famous caregivers on the list. During her lifetime, she taught that value comes when helping others with love and compassion. Although we may not care for our loved ones in the same way, our value is immeasurable. In a society where our aging loved ones are often forgotten, she also reminded her followers that the worst suffering one can have is loneliness.
Anne Sullivan
Although this famous caregiver may not be as recognizable as the woman she cared for, the work she achieved during her lifetime affected many. Anne Sullivan cared for Helen Keller, who lost her hearing and sight after having scarlet fever as an infant. Young Sullivan tamed the wild child many described as stubborn. With love, patience, and acceptance, she was eventually able to teach Keller to speak, leading to a career as a public speaker and activist.
Eleanor Roosevelt
In the early 1920’s, Franklin Roosevelt suffered an attack of polio, which left him paralyzed. Eleanor Roosevelt, his wife, took on the role of mother, wife, and caregiver. When her husband became president in 1933, she took on many of his political responsibilities, as well as the responsibilities of being a mother. Eleanor helped shape the role of First Lady to what it is today while becoming one of the most famous caregivers in the United States. After her husband died, she continued to care for those who could not take care of themselves through social activism.
Seth Rogen
Funny man, Seth Rogen, has been public about his mother-in-law’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis. He and his wife care for his mother-in-law and also created the Hilarity for Charity organization. Many of his Hollywood comrades like actor, Owen Wilson, and journalist, Maria Shriver, have also become famous caregivers to their parents who suffer from Alzheimer’s.
Caregivers Need Caring For, Too
At Nevada Adult Day Healthcare Centers, we know caregivers for seniors need support from others in their community. Call us today, and we can offer words of encouragement for caregivers like you.
