Caregivers Recognized for Excellence in Family Care

The Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities (DSAAPD) honored four caregivers for providing outstanding caregiving support for their Delaware family members.  They were honored in November, National Family Caregivers Month, at the Division’s New Castle offices.

Division Director Allan R. Zaback praised the more than 130,000 family caregivers in Delaware and said, “Caregiving is an important and time-consuming role that many people take for granted until they are forced into that position.  Many people don’t even realize that they are caregivers as their responsibilities have increased gradually, and they don’t realize how much time they give to caring for someone because it’s done out of love and affection.”

“Although all caregivers are winners, we are honoring four outstanding caregivers this year to show our appreciation and to bring more attention to the topic and needs of all Delaware caregivers,” Zaback said.

The following four caregivers were selected among nominations to receive the Division’s “Caregiver of the Year Award.”

Dana Bowman, Greenwood

Dana is an extraordinary young woman who has been providing flawless care to her mother since 1996.  She was in the process of encountering major obstacles in her own life and caring for 3 small children under the age of 6 when she became responsible for the total care of her mother.  Over the years, Dana’s mother’s health has deteriorated to the point where she is bedridden.  And what’s remarkable, her mother has never had a bed sore – which demonstrates the superb care she has received.  Dana currently maintains a spotless home, is very active in church and school activities, and provides for a family of 9.

Joyce Butler, Wilmington

Since November, 2001, Joyce has provided loving care to a woman with Alzheimer’s and a needed break for the woman’s husband.  “Joyce is perfect,” reports the husband.  “She is kind, caring and helpful.  I couldn't do any better than this gal.”

Eileen Howell, Georgetown

Eileen was nominated for her exceptional service of providing the highest quality care while maintaining the dignity, comfort, safety and happiness of those she cares for, and because of her patience, self-spoken nature, compassion and her willingness to go above and beyond.

Catherine White, Sharon Hill, Pennsylvania

Catherine has worked full-time for 10 years.  Over the past 5 years, she has taken on an additional responsibility of caring for her elderly mother who lives in Delaware and  is not well.  As a result, she is on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, giving constant care.  On top of working 40+ hours a week and caring for her mother, she is also a caregiver to her son’s 4-year-old daughter.  Despite her caregiving responsibilities, this amazing woman still finds time to be active in the community with her church, utilize CARE Delaware services and she even planned her own wedding this Christmas eve.