This coming Fourth of July marks the fourteenth anniversary of Today’s Caregiver magazine.  By the way, the fourteenth anniversary present is jewelry.  I’m not picky, diamonds, emeralds, whatever can fit in a mail pouch is fine with me.   In reviewing the past 168 months of publishing, I am most grateful for the articles, poems and stories that have been passed over the transom by family caregivers.  No knock on the care professionals, journalists and writers who have graced our pages, but nothing compares to the heartfelt intimacy and wisdom of a story which is faxed or emailed with the note “I am not a writer, so don’t laugh, but I just had to share this story.”  These are always the articles which get the most response for their spot-on advice and tremendously helpful insights.  So, keep those cards, letters and poems coming.
 
This past week has encompassed one sad passing of a public figure after another.  We send our condolences to all of these families, from Ed McMahon, a caregiver and cover interview from a few years ago, to Farrah Fawcett, Billy Mays, Fred Travelino and of course, Michael Jackson.  For all we know these people in their public personas, they also leave behind grieving parents, sons, daughters and friends who remember them as more than public figures.  The Michael Jackson family saga also reminds us that no matter how old you are (or who you are,) there is no better time than the present to make sure that your family does not have the burden of trying to uncover your wishes in their time of grief.  Take the time to put your advanced directives, wills and final wishes together. Sit with your adult family members to share your thoughts on these matters and let people know where the important documents are in case of emergencies. 
After all, the gift of preparation is the greatest gift you can give your family in their time of need.     
 
Our anniversary gift to you

 

Gary Barg
Editor-in-Chief
gary@caregiver.com