13-05-2025
Cheshire caregiver honored by Elizabeth Dole Foundation
WASHINGTON, D.C. (WTNH) — Liz Wright of Cheshire was named as one of 20 military and veteran caregivers from across the country to be named as the Class of 2025 Dole Caregiver Fellows, the Elizabeth Dole Foundation announced Tuesday.
According to the Dole Foundation press release, Wright serves as a caregiver for her husband who suffers from PTSD, a TBI, tinnitus and burn pit exposure complications.
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'My role as a caregiver has paralleled my journey as a mother,' Wright said in the release. 'Raising a family while supporting my husband has often left me exhausted and overextended. Navigating the Department of Veterans Affairs' system alone could be a full-time job. I've had to scale back professionally and delay my plans for doctoral studies due to the demands at home. This phase of my life has allowed me to embrace flexibility and discover unexpected benefits in slowing down.'
Wright, a mother of three, runs leadership development consulting firm who has been a lecturer for eight years. She hopes to return to school to pursue her doctorate researching trauma in the workplace.
Wright said her role as a caregiver revealed her capacity for patience and empathy.
'But it has also taught me the importance of setting boundaries and practicing self-care so I can be my best for both of us,' Wright said. 'Most surprisingly, I've discovered that even in the most difficult moments, I can find moments of joy and meaning that I might have missed in an easier life path.
The Fellowship program empowers those caring for a service member or veteran to serve as leaders in their local communities while also representing their peers in national advocacy initiatives, according to the release. There are currently 14.3 million military and veteran caregivers according a study by the Foundation.
Wright will begin her two-year Fellowship this month by traveling to Washington, D.C. to participate in the Foundation's 10th Annual National Convening on Military Caregiving on May 20.
Wright will also receive training from the Foundation to serve as a community builder in her home state and share her experiences with elected officials.
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