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SCRC'S Caregiver of the Month Spotlight: Santiago
Santiago is a second-generation caregiver for his grandmother, who is primarily cared for by his mother. Santiago and his mother are long-distance caregivers, meaning much of the support they provide is from afar. His mother travels to be with her a couple of times a year while Santiago manages the legal and medical paperwork on behalf of his grandmother. Together, they coordinate with in-home caregivers who assist his grandmother full-time.
Santiago believes the most crucial aspect of his caregiving role is offering emotional support to his mother. After 13 years of caregiving, Santiago’s mother frequently experiences caregiving-related stress and appreciates being able to confide in her son. Santiago uses his knowledge as a public health professional to offer self-care strategies to his mother as well as his community. He firmly believes that the challenges associated with caregiving, while overwhelming at times, can be alleviated with empathy and awareness.
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