In the U.S. alone, over 53 million people identify as family caregivers. These everyday people—neighbors, friends, parents, and relatives—dedicate countless hours to caring for others while managing the emotional, physical and financial tolls that caregiving can take. 

A devoted mother and full-time family caregiver, Sherthea cares for her young son Jamel, who has a rare neurodegenerative condition that requires around-the-clock care. As his mother and primary caretaker, Sherthea knows Jamel best, which means that when it comes to getting the care he needs, she speaks up when he cannot. But when it came to finding the right care team, she hit a wall familiar to many family caregivers: a health care system that fails to recognize and include caregivers as an essential part of the care team. 

Through perseverance, Sherthea was finally able to find a care team that made her feel seen and heard. Recognizing the expertise she brought to the table as Jamel’s primary caregiver, they evaluated Jamel’s medical needs and worked with her to map a path forward that worked for both her and Jamel. 

Sherthea’s story demonstrates the value of including family caregivers in the care planning and decision-making process. When family caregivers are recognized as a vital member of the care team, we can support them in their roles and responsibilities to improve patient outcomes and ensure that everyone receives the care they need, and that no one is left behind. 

Learn more about how Community Catalyst is transforming support systems for family caregivers across the nation.