My name is Steve, and I would like to share my carer story with you.
I have been caring for my elderly father for a couple of years now. My father had a stroke and finds it difficult to get about.
I don't know anyone else who is in the same position as me. I still work (although only part-time at the moment), and it is pretty hard going doing work and caring, but I guess I wouldn't have it any other way. I would hate to see my father in a care home and I am determined to give him a good quality of life.
I found out recently about a charity called Crossroads, that offers support to carers to give them a well deserved break. I wanted to pass that on so other carers could benefit. Crossroads will either come into your home and look after the person you care for while you pop out for a few hours, or they will take out your loved one or family member while you stay at home and rest. It's well worth giving them a go.
It may not seem like much, but a few hours break on a regular basis gives you something to look forward to and plan into your week. I sometimes meet up with a friend for lunch or go for a swim or a walk: I have even stayed at home and had a well deserved forty winks after reading the afternoon paper. It's great to just spend a little time doing what I enjoy.
A change is as good as a rest they say - and it's certainly made a difference to my life, and for that matter, my father's: he gets on great with his Crossroads carer and enjoys having someone else to chat to.
Hope my story has helped other carers and I look forward to getting to know new friends on the website.
Bye for now,
Steve