Last Friday, I attended the memorial service for a high school friend’s son who passed away. It was a lovely service in the National Cathedral in DC with touching tributes from the siblings, a thoughtful sermon, and great music. 

He was a freshman at Harvard thirteen years ago when he got hit with a horrific issue in his brain — a glioblastoma, I think it’s called. He should have died, but he lived for another 13 years due to an athlete’s constitution and the devoted care of his family. It was a twilight life, and I’m sure he’s in a better place. 

Through my work, community projects, and friendships, I’ve met many caretakers — invisible heroes in our backyard. These folks, like my dear friend, sacrifice so much for their loved ones. Steve and I have had our challenges over the years, too. 

There is not enough support for caretakers in our communities. With cuts to SSI, Medicaid, and DVRS, their job is getting harder. We can do better.

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