Caregiving can demoralize and deplete us at times. But, in the end, it can also be one of the most elevating, beautiful, loving and growth-filled things you will ever do.

I learned first-hand the hardships, demands and life changes that caregivers face when I took care of my husband at home for the nine years he battled Alzheimer’s. During those hard years, I learned that unexpected hardship, disappointment and loss can bring out our best.

I now consider those years a time of great blessing. It was a time of testing but also a time of growth. I experienced that it is possible to elevate caregiving to a feat of great love and virtue.

Look at the word “caregiver.” It is made up of the word “care” and the word “giver.” What a beautiful description that is! It identifies the person as a giver of something very personal and fine. Caregivers provide comfort, nourishment and support in untold ways. Even reluctant caregivers have stepped up and are giving of themselves to meet the needs of another.

It is a demanding role and draws from every aspect of the caregiver’s resources. The risk of physical, emotional, social, mental and financial depletion is real.

Caregiving for a sick or disabled loved one is one of the most physically and emotionally exhausting missions we may ever attempt. In the midst of emotions of grief, loss, fear, uncertainty and anger, we are tasked with learning new skills, reordering our family and social life, and coming to terms with our new reality.

We are faced with letting go of our dreams of what might have been and learning to accept and cherish what is. And with acceptance, the remarkable blessings of caregiving can begin to flow.