Rock County Relay for Life to honor caregivers

Each year Rock County Relay for Life recognizes survivors who share stories about their experiences with cancer. 
This year, in addition to having an Honorary Survivor, the group is recognizing an Honorary Caregiver. 
“Caregivers are often unsung heroes in the journey of a cancer patient,” said Jennifer Evans of the American Cancer Society.
“They are a constant source of strength, encouragement and, most of all, support.”
She said there are many different types of support that caregivers can provide.
“We often think of a spouse, a parent, a sibling, an adult child or another close relative as being caregivers for cancer patients,” Evans said.
“They are with the cancer patient day in and day out, keeping doctor’s appointments and treatment schedules organized and holding all of the pieces of the puzzle together on the difficult journey.”
A caregiver also can be anyone who provides any kind of support for a patient during their cancer journey.
“It could be a friend preparing a meal, a nurse who provides care to the patient while they are receiving treatment, a child sharing a picture they’ve drawn or a coworker who just takes time to call and ask how things are going,” Evans said.
“Anyone who does something to fight back against cancer and support a patient on their journey is a caregiver.”
She said it’s important to understand that a caregiver never stops being a caregiver.
“Even if the patient they supported is no longer with us, the support that they provided is no less important,” Evans said. “The role that all caregivers fulfill in the lives of cancer patients is pivotal, undeniable and, above all, unforgettable.”
Community members are encouraged to nominate a caregiver to be honored at the June 10 Relay for Life event at the Luverne City Park.
Nomination forms are available at Merecie Domagala’s office at the American Family Insurance office on West Main Street or mdomagal@amfam.com.
Nominations are due by May 1.
Relay for Life is a national fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. Rock County’s first Relay event was in 2001.