K'June and Brian found help with Easterseals Support Groups

Twelve years ago, K'June and Brian Evans' daughter, Ariell Green, had an asthma attack and was without oxygen for 25 minutes. They were afraid, but K'June knew Ariell would come through. And she did! The incident permanently changed their lives, however, and they transitioned from being just her parents to Ariell's full-time caregivers. Thankfully, K'June found Easterseals Community Outreach program and their caregiver support group to help connect with others walking the same path.

"Anyone can get burned out from caregiving because there is no break," K'June says. "Easterseals' support group helps me keep my laughter. They are wonderful."

K'June, of Wilmington, DE, participates in Easterseals' caregiver support group twice a month. She has also taken advantage of the Resource and Technology Demonstration Center to find different types of assistive technology which can lessen the strain of caregiving on her life and help her daughter continue to be as independent as possible. She uses a gait belt to help Ariell walk with assistance. She also uses adaptive clothing recommended by Easterseals which makes it easier to get Ariell dressed each day.

"We don't feel bad for ourselves. She is a miracle," K'June says. "I get weary sometimes, but I can still talk to her. We laugh a lot in my house."

According to the National Alliance for Caregiving, there are more than 34 million family caregivers in the U.S. One of the greatest needs of these caregivers is respite or a temporary relief for caregivers and families who are caring for children or adults with disabilities, chronic or terminal illness, or the elderly.

"Easterseals gives me more than they know. I try to give back by bringing joy and laughter to the group. To see someone else receive joy is a blessing," K'June says. "Easterseals calls to check in. It is a testament to how they care for those in the group. The support they give me gives me the extra umph to keep going."

Stories like K’June’s highlight the strength of caregivers and the importance of having a support system. Easterseals is proud to stand beside families every step of the way.
Join us this August at our Caregiver Conference to connect with resources, experts, and other caregivers. For immediate support or to explore available services, reach out to our Caregiver Resource Center at resources@esdel.org or 302-221-2087.