With a recent New Year Donation of $50,000 to the Elizabeth Dole Foundation and the establishment of four national caregiver retreats in 2015, the Independence Fund has expanded their vision to help our nation’s wounded warriors by supporting the hidden heroes who stand behind them.
This past weekend (1/22/15-1/25/15) I had the opportunity, along with other Caregiver Fellows and military caregivers to attend the Inaugural Independence Fund Caregiver Retreat, in Point Clear, Alabama. I myself have never been on a caregiver retreat and to be able to spend a few days in the warm sun on the Gulf with other fabulous caregivers, was one of the greatest gifts I have received in a long time.
The retreat offered caregivers the opportunity to participate in hypnotherapy for stress management, a spa date, in-town excursions, a wonderful cooking demonstration and most of all, the ability to just unwind. Many of us agreed that this trip was much needed. Very rarely are we allowed to completely relax; personally, I have not had over 24 hours to myself since my husband was hospitalized. The Independence Fund helped us caregivers immensely this past weekend through this retreat. So on behalf of everyone who attended with me, thank you Independence Fund!
For upcoming Independence Fund Caregiver Retreats, please visit their website and/or sign up for the Hidden Heroes Caregiver Community by e-mailing Emery@ElizabethDoleFoundation.org and the information will be released when it becomes available.
~ Emery Popoloski
Hidden Heroes Caregiver Community Program Coordinator
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