A No.1 Tip from Mel
It’s me, Mel in London: - a big hello to all those Carers out there. And I must just add, why haven't we had a website like this before? I'm trying to spread the word to tell more carers about it ...... thanks Elaine for taking the time to build such a fun and friendly website.... I'm sure as the years role by it will be a meeting ground for carers everywhere!!
I have been Caring for a relative now for almost twelve years, who is physically disabled.. At times it is tough,when he is really ill, (I'll admit that .. not many carers are brave enough to say as we all think we are failing in some way if we do) but I have a lot of support from other members of the family, and I grab it with both hands and am always eternally grateful for the support I receive. Without it I honestly don't know how I would cope. Having a break really makes all the difference and tops up my reserves and gives me the energy to continue doing what I do.
Although I am his primary Carer, I do accept help from others whenever it is offered and I’m not afraid to ask (before it gets too much) because as I mentioned earlier, I realize the benefits of a bit of respite.
I don’t work as Caring is my full time job. Actually, let me re-word that, I DO work - I’m a “No.1 Carer.” I like that - and I’m always going to remember that one.
My tip to other carers is to take regular breaks from your caring to ensure that you can continue to care without it ever getting too much to bare. A simple tip - and I suppose an obvious one, but not many of us remember it – is, you’re not being selfish if you do this - it’s necessary to “top-up your reserves..... and I just thought I would add that I love the job that I do and the difference I make to the person I care for... but I guess I am lucky in that I have support. So all you carers out there don't be afraid to ASK, and as Elaine says in one of her Top Tips, (I'm sure I remember reading that somehere and I'm not going mad) "your a champion for admitting it" ... so bite the bullet today and get out there and ASK away you will probably be surprised at how many people will say, "why didn't you ask before". But don't be disheartened if you are told 'NO' not everyone can be a carer... but get back out there and keep asking... and seek out support from some of the Charities that offer support to cares, like previously mentioned in another carers story, I think I am right in saying it was Crossroads. If there is a waiting list get yourself on it and ring them up periodically to let them know you are still needing support.
Hope to chat to you all soon and I cant wait to share other tips with other carers and find someone else who is in the same boat as me.
Bye for now,
Mel
Archive
Your Carer Story
Mistaken identity: Bag Lady, Carer or Patient
Charity Rethink offers Carer Support
Tips from EPP: Break the Symptom Cycle & Reduce Anxiety
Happy New Year .. is it a good one?
Dont be blue!!
Thrifty Spending: be a Credit Card Tart
Don't stay down in the dumps for long!
Took CCI's advice
Total Pampering
Take smaller steps - you'll get there in the end
A New You!!
My New Year Resolution
A helping hand!
A Big Thank you to Elaine
Carersconnectint.com to the Rescue!
Thank you Carer Buddy
Calling Maxeytrisha1 … Steve to the rescue!
All is not lost Beth, Tracey to the Rescue!!
I Feel Invisible
Looking After Me - Free EPP course
I Know How You Feel
Josie is “a little star”
Charity Crossroads lightens the load
‘Fresher’ meets experienced ‘Carer’
I'm a moany old minny but I'm not alone