Dear readers,

Today, in many countries, the term carer or caregiver has a broad meaning. Voluntary carers can be family members, friends or others with diverse roles that vary depending on the needs of the person to whom they provide care. In some countries, such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and others, the activities of carer groups often include lobbying and advocacy.

These movements have certainly brought the needs of carers to the forefront, providing a voice to many family members and others who are dedicated to providing quality care to their loved ones.

While putting together this issue of MS in focus, we discovered that in many countries, the term carer or caregiver is not part of the language. In some cultures, the responsibility of helping a family member with MS or other illness is an accepted and expected part of one’s role as a member of a family, so that no special word to name it seems necessary. While the absence of a specific word for a person who provides care to another person is meaningful, some would argue that not giving a name to this specific and important role results in isolation and silence for many caregivers who provide care without recognition, assistance and support.

Issue 9 discusses the effects of caregiving, the needs of carers and practical information on managing activities related to caregiving. Our hope is that this issue of MS in focus provides information that is relevant, practical and hopeful for carers of people with MS, healthcare professionals and people with MS themselves, in every country and culture affected by this disease and the caregiving issues that accompany it.

I look forward to receiving your comments.

Michele Messmer Uccelli, Editor