Imagine you are 12 years old, riding your bike or playing with friends. When suddenly you are faced with a devastating and heartbreaking reality. That was Rosalynn Carter’s story when her father was diagnosed with terminal leukemia. This marked the beginning of her journey as a caregiver, a role she would embrace throughout her life.
During Women’s History Month, Caregiving College pays tribute to an extraordinary figure in the field of caregiving – Rosalynn Carter. What began as a personal challenge, evolved into a lifelong mission, touching the lives of caregivers nationwide.
Roselyn Carter, born Eleanor Rosalynn Smith on August 18, 1927, served as the First Lady of the United States from January 20, 1977, to January 20, 1981, during the presidency of her husband, Jimmy Carter.
Serving as the First Lady of the United States from 1977 to 1981, alongside her husband, Jimmy Carter, Rosalynn leveraged her platform to champion the causes of senior citizens, the disabled, and families in need. Her pivotal role in the enactment of the Mental Health Systems Act of 1980 marked a significant stride towards better services for individuals with mental illnesses.
Through her personal experience, Rosalynn understood the complexities and the silent heroism embedded in caregiving. Her empathy translated into action, and she became a voice for those who care for others. She wrote several notable books throughout her lifetime. Her works include:
- “First Lady from Plains”- An autobiography that covers her life from childhood in Plains, Georgia, through her time as First Lady of the United States.
- “Everything to Gain: Making the Most of the Rest of Your Life”-Co-authored with her husband, Jimmy Carter, this book offers insights into making the most of life’s later years.
- “Helping Yourself Help Others: A Book for Caregivers”- A guide for caregivers, offering advice and support based on her advocacy in mental health and caregiving.
- “Helping Someone with Mental Illness: A Compassionate Guide for Family, Friends, and Caregivers”- This book is about assisting those who are supporting individuals with mental illness.
- “Within Our Reach: Ending the Mental Health Crisis”- Rosalynn Carter discusses the mental health crisis and outlines steps towards improvement.
These works highlight Rosalynn Carter’s dedication to public service, mental health advocacy, and her support for caregivers, reflecting her lifelong commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
Perhaps one of her most enduring legacies is the establishment of the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers in 1987. Founded on the principle that caregivers deserve recognition, education, and support, the institute stands as a testament to her vision, offering resources, educational programs, and advocacy for caregiver support.
During her career, she was an advocate for caregivers, instrumental in helping to form mental health policy, and a defender of human rights. Her legacy in public service and humanitarian work is an inspiration today.
Join us in honoring Rosalynn Carter for her uplifting spirit, her tireless advocacy, and her lasting impact on the lives of caregivers and those they support. Her story is a call to action, reminding us of the power of empathy and the importance of supporting those who care for others.
#WomensHistoryMonth #CaregivingHeroes #RosalynnCarter #CaregivingCollege