National Caregiver Day

April 5th is National Caregiver Day, a time set aside to recognize those who dedicate their time caring for others, in turn making lives easier and more enjoyable.

In honour of this, Cancer Cares is running a special cross-country campaign asking Canadians to nominate a family or professional caregiver they believe deserves recognition. Nominators are also asked to explain how their nominee would use a potential monetary prize.

Ten exceptional caregivers will be selected with one nominee winning the $10,000 Canada Cares One Wish Award, sponsored by We Care Home Health Services.

“The number of caregivers is growing at a rapid pace across the country, with one in four Canadian adults providing care at home for a loved one, and it’s time to support and recognize people for their tireless, selfless efforts to help others in need,” said Caroline Tapp-McDougall, Chair of Canada Cares, explaining that the awards announcement follows the success of last year’s inaugural awards program.

This year the program will also recognize communities and employers who are proving to be leaders in ways that celebrate and support caregivers. The Caregiver-Friendly Workplace Award, in partnership with the Canadian Abilities Foundation, and the Caring Communities Award will be presented to one community and one business or organization nationally, based on public nominations.

Nominations can be submitted online, by mail or by video and will be accepted until September 15 2014 with winners announced in November. For details on how to nominate a caregiver, visit www.canadacares.org.