March is Women’s History Month. At AmeriBest Home Care Harrisburg, we’re excited to honor the women who helped shape what care is through their work and advocacy. Let’s look at some of the most influential caregivers in history.

First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt

Though Franklin Roosevelt’s polio left him paralyzed, he still became President in 1933. As strong and influential as he was during a tumultuous time in US History, it was the care that his wife Eleanor provided that enabled him to be the leader we remember today. When Franklin Roosevelt passed away, Eleanor continued to advocate for effective and empathetic care for those who needed it most.

Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler

In 1864, Rebecca Lee Crumpler became the first African American woman in the US to earn an M.D. degree. She focused her work on the care of women and children and further secured her place in medical history with her Book of Medical Discourses.

Anne Sullivan

When Hellen Keller lost her sight and hearing from scarlet fever as an infant, her family saw little hope for her. However, Anne Sullivan rose to the challenge, helping Hellen learn to communicate and interact with the world around her.

Hellen Keller

With the help of Anne Sullivan, Hellen Keller was able to overcome incredible obstacles to become an activist and speaker. Among her numerous causes, Hellen Keller became a fierce advocate for people with disabilities.

Debbie Reynolds

Debbie Reynolds was best known as a Hollywood actress (Singin’ in the Rain as well as the voice of Charlotte in Charlotte’s web). She was also the mother of one of the most beloved actresses in science fiction – Carrie Fisher. What most don’t know is that Debbie also spent her life as a caregiver to her own mother and grandmother when she was 14 and even her own daughter Carrie when she showed signs of depression and bipolar disorder.

Rosalynn Carter

Another First Lady on our list, Rosalynn Carter, became a caregiver at the young age of 12 when her father was diagnosed with leukemia. In addition to serving as a caregiver for other family members, she has written books about caregiving and started the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers to promote the health, strength, and resilience of those who dedicate their lives to serving others.

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