I have been wondering lately if there is one defining lesson to be learned from the soon-to-be-departed 2005.  So many things have happened to our families, our nation and the world that it would seem an impossible thing to try and select just one such lesson.  No matter where we live, we could not help but be affected by those in the path of natural disasters such as Katrina, Wilma, Rita, countless tornados, a Tsunami, and various floods and fires.   This year, we have celebrated the small victories with our loved ones; a moment of clarity and recognition from a mother living deep within the shadows of Alzheimer’s, the first words of an eight year old boy living with Autism, the first steps of a loved one wounded in war, or even the new friends and compatriots found at a local support group that you finally decided to join. 

Reflecting on our 2005 Fearless Caregiver Conference tour, one overriding element of each event had been the fact that almost every caregiver starts the day thinking they are absolutely alone in their pain, fears and challenges and by the end of the day are overjoyed to find out that there is actually a tremendous amount of advice, support and wisdom that can be found by spending time with others who are also caring for their loved ones. 

So, upon reflection, I think there actually is a defining lesson to be learned from the waning days of 2005. Consider that as we enter the new year,  not only are we not alone as we care for our loved ones, but we actually represent potentially the most powerful force in our nation’s history.   Imagine if all 54 million caregivers only bought products that were “Caregiver Friendly” and only elected those with our best interest in mind. Imagine what kind of world that would be to live in.  And your voice can be heard, no matter if you are a caregiver living in rural Alabama, upstate Maine or urban Philadelphia.

As a state representative in Ohio told me a few years ago, he is more moved by a heartfelt message written in pencil on the back of an envelope, than any organized email campaign with tens of thousands of signatories sent with the push of a button. Although, I feel that it is vitally important to join advocacy groups dealing with issues of importance to you and your loved ones, it’s still your voice that needs to be heard.