26/11/2025
Each November, National Family Caregivers Month recognizes the 53 million Americans who provide care to loved ones with complex health needs. This year, we highlight the experiences of two current caregivers and two survivors to shed light on the realities of caring for patients with ALS.
1️⃣ Michele's caregiving journey began in 2018 with small acts of assistance for her husband, Benjamin—tying ties, buttoning shirts, shaving and bathing. By 2019, after a series of misdiagnoses, Benjamin was diagnosed with ALS.
"He is my priority, and I wouldn't trade this for anything."
2️⃣ Lisa's caregiving experience began in 2011 when her husband was diagnosed with ALS. At first, the disease progressed slowly, but by 2020 his near-paralysis forced her to seek help.
"Everything changed once we were onboarded with Maxim," Lisa said. "My husband was able to leave hospice."
3️⃣ Ashley's journey was unique—an adult child caring for a parent while also raising her own family following her husband's death. Ashley says the most rewarding part was simply being there for her father. "In that isolation, we found connection," she said. "We were able to take advantage of a second chance at time and making memories."
4️⃣ Lara's caregiving journey began in 2016 when her husband was diagnosed with ALS. Unlike many veterans with full coverage, their journey was slow and complicated. By 2019, he had a tracheostomy and ventilator and left the ICU fully paralyzed.
Her message to caregivers: you are not alone. "Connecting with others saved my life," Lara said. "Support groups and VA resources provided both emotional outlets and practical tips that made caregiving more manageable."
Caregiving through ALS can be exhausting, frightening and deeply fulfilling.
Each story—Michele's grace, Lisa's advocacy, Ashley's resilience and Lara's love—reminds us that caregivers are the hidden heroes of this journey. National Family Caregivers Month honors them, but their strength deserves recognition every day.
Read the stories of Michele, Lisa, Ashley, and Lara on our blog here: https://www.maximhealthcare.com/healthcare-blog/national-family-caregivers-month-voices-from-the-als-community/
