ORLANDO, Fla. – The Orlando VA Healthcare System (OVAHCS) welcomed caregivers, VA staff, and community partners on Monday for its Annual Caregiver Summit, a half-day event designed to connect, inform, and uplift those who provide daily support to the nation’s Veterans.

Held at the Orlando VA Medical Center in Lake Nona, the summit focused on equipping caregivers with tools, resources, and emotional encouragement to continue their vital roles. A virtual option was also offered to include participants across Central Florida.

“Caregiving is very rewarding, but it has its challenges too,” said Michelle Harper, a social worker and care coordinator at the Orlando VA. “We like to teach caregivers to turn the attention to themselves, to focus on what they need to stay healthy, strong emotionally and spiritually, so that they can continue to be a caregiver.”

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The summit featured guest speakers, panel discussions, and networking opportunities aimed at strengthening collaboration between families and the VA system.

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Topics ranged from mental health and self-care to navigating support programs and balancing work-life responsibilities.

Caregiver Emmy Ligeikis, who has supported and cared for her husband, says the summit served as a powerful reminder of self-worth.

“We still need to grow as a person and professionally as well,” Ligeikis said. “These programs keep reminding us, take care of you, take care of you. We’re here to help you take care of you. And that’s important.”

The event was hosted by the Orlando VA’s Caregiver Support Program, which provides ongoing education, peer support, and wellness tools to families navigating the caregiving journey.

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Organizers say the goal is simple: empower those who empower Veterans.

For more information about the Caregiver Support Program or to register for future events, visit va.gov/orlando-health-care or contact the support team directly at michelle.harper@va.gov.

Virtual resources remain available for caregivers who could not attend in person.