Lise Prosser was named Prince George's Family Caregiver 2011 Tuesday by We Care Home Health Services during the Canadian government's National Family Caregiver Week.
Prosser has taken care of her 18-year-old granddaughter, Lily Weir, since she was a year-and-a-half old and her parents were no longer able to care for her.
"I am shocked and honoured to get the caregiver award," said Prosser, who was quickly overwhelmed with emotion as she was presented with flowers and a gift basket by We Care representatives Charlotte Callahan and Leon Caillier.
Weir, who has Down Syndrome, has several health issues including a hearing impairment, diabetes, and she's had to have two kidney transplants.
She has been a thriving young lady since her last kidney transplant took place last year, said Prosser.
We Care Health Services has offered Prosser respite from her constant care of her granddaughter since 1998. The local healthcare providers were there when Prosser had to have open-heart surgery in 2007 and two knee surgeries.
"We Care Home Health Services understands the commitment, time and effort it takes to provide care for a loved one," said Callahan, manager at the local We Care office. "Lise has demonstrated commitment and advocacy for care on behalf of her granddaughter and we wanted to recognize that with this award."
The award will provide six hours of care for Lily at no charge, a letter of recognition from president and CEO of We Care Home Health Services, John Schram, as well as the gift basket and flowers put together by the team at the local office.
"Mostly we provide respite for grandma," said Callahan. "We pick up Lily and take her out into the community for socialization. We take her out for walks, we take her to the movies, we take her to the mall."
Prosser said she and Lily live in harmony and peace and the consistency of always living in the same place provides them the stability they need to thrive.
"We're a team," said Prosser.
Camera-shy Lily could not believe all the fuss and enjoyed watching her grandmother receive the recognition for her hard work.
"You're kidding me, right?" she said when Prosser was presented with her basket and flowers.
Prosser said it was nice to be recognized by We Care but there are better rewards than that.
"I get rewarded every day when Lily says 'I love you Grandma!' and that's all I need," Prosser smiled.
