As the clocks go back this post is to give a very big virtual hug to the carers and bereaved carers who are part of this community. Make sure you are looking after yourselves really well!
I believe that you as a carer you should be getting the jabs for flu and covid from your GP irrespective of age, and if it's appropriate a hepatology specialist nurse at the hospital can let the surgery know what's needed to reduce the risk to you and the person you are caring for. I was a carer, bereaved earlier this year, and even thought I don't qualify by age I still got the full set of vaccines a couple of weeks ago, which was reassuring now that I live alone.
My husband was generally very tired or he was sleepy from the pain medication, so I know 'the darker nights' can be a bit lonely. I am still working my way through the episodes of QI on BBC iPlayer and sometimes they do make me laugh out loud. It is not disrespectful, although for me always with a twinge of regret about not being together to share the jokes there and then.
I think most importantly, don't ignore signs about your own health and wellbeing. I knew my vision was blurry from time to time, and I put it down to lack of sleep and stress. When my husband passed away I thought it would clear up after the funeral and all the admin was done and dusted. It didn't, and when I finally went to the optician they saw a quite serious cataract. It was sorted within 3 weeks, and I am still so thankful that there were no bad consequences when I was driving or crossing the road, because I had neglected my own health.
These are three somewhat disconnected thoughts, and knowing the people here you are already well up to speed on all this.
Take very good care of yourselves and those you love
Andy, Bristol UK
Out of the woods?
Almost out of the woods?
Where is the support for partners of loved ones who are needing or who are waiting for a transplant ?? 
Sometimes help comes too late
