To My Caregiver

Judith Rappaport Musson

Have I thanked you for digging deep and being strong for another day? Maybe not, but I should. Because I know that without your strength, I might not have enough of my own.

Have I thanked you for hiding your fears and being brave for one more day? Probably not, but I should. Because I know that without your courage, I might give up and give in.

I’m sure I meant to thank you for looking past my illness to help me remember who I really am. You deserve my thanks. Because I know that without your memories, the ‘me’ that I was might disappear and leave just an old person in my place.

I know I meant to thank you for struggling each day to add my needs to your life’s plan. You deserve my thanks. Because I know that without your sacrifices, the world might forget me without a trace.

If I could give you one gift back as my thanks for everything, it would be this message: You’ve shown your colors to me and the world. You have the colors of a true champion, a hero. Were you born with these colors? No. I think you earned them.

Whatever else happens as your life unfurls, you will have the strength and courage you need. Choose your own path. Believe in yourself. You have the power, insight, and wisdom to succeed.

For yours are the colors of a hero, a true champion, a caregiver.

For all you’ve given, for all you’ve endured, for all the thankless tasks you’ve performed, for all your frustration and tears, and for all you’ve accomplished—on behalf of your parents and the parents of future caregivers who will benefit from your deeds, we offer our sincerest and heartfelt gratitude.