WHEREAS, all Alaskans, regardless of age, ability, or location deserve access to the wide variety of health care options in Alaska; and
WHEREAS, we are blessed to live in a time when medicine and technology have helped us live longer. However, despite these advances, many Americans suffer from chronic illness or pain, are disabled or otherwise in need of ongoing care; and
WHEREAS, family caregivers are those who volunteer in service of loved ones who are in need of care. They courageously step forward to provide generous and constant support to their loved ones. Caregivers reflect family and community life at its best; and
WHEREAS, caregivers strive to meet and anticipate the needs of their loved ones, often working long hours and facing near-impossible obstacles. Their duties include running errands, attending medical appointments, providing transportation, preparing meals, grooming, and providing companionship. These tasks are vitally important to the quality of life of their charge and often require significant time and effort, especially when balancing the pressures and responsibilities of their own lives; and
WHEREAS, these extraordinary individuals – moms and dads, sons and daughters, siblings, grandparents, and many others – embody the values of compassion and service to others. Caregiving often exerts a heavy emotional, physical, and financial toll that can put family caregivers at risk for depression, poor health, and financial hardship, and taking time out for respite is important for family caregivers; and
WHEREAS, family caregivers deserve recognition and respect for the immeasurable sacrifices they make in service to others. They play an important role in the health care system in Alaska, and the men and women who provide care to loved ones dedicate their time and effort to improving the quality of life for many Alaskans struggling with a myriad of health conditions; and
WHEREAS, during National Family Caregivers Month, let us recognize and honor the important contributions of family caregivers and pledge to continue working toward a future where all caregivers know the same support and understanding they offer to our vulnerable loved ones.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim November 2021 as:
Family Caregivers Month
in Alaska, and encourage all Alaskans to recognize the importance of family caregivers as part of our long-term system and to care for them by offering support with their caregiving responsibilities.
Dated: November 1, 2021
