Feature Written by Michelle Wolfenbarger

     It is an astounding fact that the percentage of Palm Beach County's disabled population is so much greater than the percentage of the disabled population for the U.S. as a whole 30.7% to 19.2% according to the Census 2.000 Demographic Profile). To make a difference in one life at a time, the Boca Raton/Delray Beach Soroptomist International (SI) women and Boca Respite Volunteers (BRV) have fused efforts and opened their hearts to proactively making a positive change in our community.

    By modifying the time and the tasks each volunteer assumes in the care of the disabled, harmonized schedules facilitate the provision of optimum care without overburdening personal and professional commitments.

    Gerri Asquith is one local resident receiving such collaborative care and is now making strides to a more independent life. Executing every- day chores such as grocery shopping clipping coupons, and helping Gerri with general household responsibilities are individually small tasks but a great challenge for Gerri She is also occasionally taken to the beach, which she expresses is extremely uplifting. Her experiences with BRV and the SI women have spawned noticeably positive changes, such as new art on her wall and her initiative to incite conversation during volunteer caregiver visits.

     Gerri asserts that the computer donated by BRV through an Sl member, is also a "huge factor'' in her feeling less isolated. She states "It has really opened up my world." She is now connected with not only others who endure her same predicament, but also enjoys the plethora of medical and motivational advice available via the web. (continued on page 1)

     The 2005 National Family Caregivers Association (NFCA) message for National Family Caregivers Month. Caring Every Day campaign was: Believe; Protect; Reach Out. As a family caregiver, Believe in yourself, Protect your health, and Reach Out for help. In doing these three things. you will make your life easier, provide the best care possible, and raise overall awareness.
Membership in NFCA is free for all family caregivers. If you are a family caregiver, join NFCA by calling I -800-896-3650.