November has been designated "National Family Caregivers Month." During November, The Arc of Monmouth would like to recognize and express appreciation to the hundreds of family members throughout the county who are caregivers of persons with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities.
Mothers and fathers of people with developmental disabilities are most often their primary caregivers for the major part of their lives. Often siblings also play a role, which may become larger as parents age, become ill or die. A remarkable degree of love, tender care, creativity, advocacy, and perseverance are displayed by many of the families caring for a person with developmental disabilities. The commitment is lifelong.
Family caregivers fill the needs of the person with a disability on a 24-hour-a-day basis well beyond the number of years a typical parent may take care of a child. The needs may be complex, demanding and unique. They may be physically and emotionally exhausting.
At The Arc of Monmouth, we see on a daily basis the positive effects of the efforts of family caregivers on the lives of persons with mental retardation. These children and adults are confident in the love and affection of their families and therefore confident in their lives. They can explore new challenges in their communities because they have a firm foundation of support at home. Their achievements and accomplishments in neighborhood schools, jobs, athletics, and social activities are encouraged and reinforced by their family caregivers.
The very existence of The Arc of Monmouth is a testament to family members of persons with mental retardation. More than 50 years ago, parents started the organization to directly provide schooling to children with mental retardation, and to fight for protection of the rights of these children and for funding to meet their needs. Parents have remained the heart and backbone of this organization and many others like it in New Jersey and across the country.
Family caregivers provide support and care that are invaluable, not only to their family member but also to the community at-large. To replace their caregiving with paid staffing would cost billions of dollars a year.
We are very grateful for the many families who provide such wonderful care to a person with developmental disabilities. We thank you for your caregiving efforts.
Randall B. Smith
President
The Arc of Monmouth
Tinton Falls