After you have been a veteran caregiver for a while you start to feel completely invisible and forgotten. The sense of isolation leaves you feeling cut off from society and the world and trying to survive each day becomes the priority. You stop doing things you enjoy. Friends and extended family relationships become strained due to the lack of energy to participate in anything other than basic needs. You feel that nothing you do is making any difference.
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I was adopted last Christmas by an amazing group of friends and Even though they had never met me, it was like they knew exactly what I was going through as a veteran caregiver.  ​
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​They asked for a list of things that I enjoy and I could only come up with ideas for my spouse and kids. Finally, it was my children who said, “Gee mom, you like to bird watch and really need a new birdfeeder because yours is broken.” So, a birdfeeder was what I listed.    
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​Well, my sponsor exceeded my expectation by about a million-fold. Instead of a new birdfeeder I received multiple feeders including birdseed for the feeders. Also in the gift box where puzzles, lavender scented soaps and my favorite snacks. It was such an

.incredible experience since my role is always caring for others I rarely receive gifts myself.  I felt like a child on Christmas morning and I hadn’t felt that excited in a very long time!  This program reminded me that I matter too and that was the message that I needed to stay strong and carry on. The program is nothing short of amazing. It reinvigorates you enough to keep you going and keep fighting those battles on the Homefront. Thank you so much!

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