National Carers' Week

Good morning everyone,

Before I come to National Carers' Week, may I first welcome back member FredaE who has been such a staunch and sensible support in the Care Community. I had noticed her absence for a little while now and was so sorry to read her post yesterday that she had suffered a stroke, but glad that she is home now. I'm sure you'll join with me in wishing her the best recovery possible, and I hope you'll feel well enough to continue to support us all FredaE!

The topic of today is that we are at the start of National Carers' Week once more. The week when this silent army of selfless people have a small recognition of all that they do for others, often through great love, and sometimes even when that love's not there.

I was lucky enough this morning to catch a piece on TV featuring Kate Mosse, the widely read author, who cares for her mum-in-law Rosie and has written a book about her experiences called 'An Extra Pair of Hands'. I hadn't heard of this book, but I will now make strides to read it. And I'll let you know what I thought after I have!

During her interview Kate pointed out that even before the start of the pandemic there were an estimated 8.8 million carers in UK alone and it's estimated by 'Carers UK', that this number has risen exponentially during the course of covid19. And that those carers have never been more isolated due to covid19 restrictions. As Kate pointed out, many of these people are 'hidden in plain sight'. And often at the bottom of everyone's list as needing help and consideration.

Kate's mum-in-law was delightful, as bright as a button and clearly a joy to be with, but sadly this often isn't the case for many carers.

Sending each and every one of you love, courage and the strength to keep going, in what are often really difficult circumstances. Be kind to yourself and remember that you matter so much to everyone, from society as a whole, right down to the person you are caring for.

Take care and I hope you have a happy Carers' Week.

Photo: Unsplash.com Markus-Spiske

[Snowdrops_17]

My nephew cares, my sister's son cares for my sister as well! He lives with her in the flat!As she is paralysed and bedridden!

He cooks meals, makes drinks etc all sorts he does, plus repositions her, changes her catheter bag! He is also quite technical on the ball with internet and laptop problems! Bonus 😁 They live in Cologne, Germany!

They still haven't had their Covid Vaccination yet and she is greatly at risk as home care staff attend to her 3 X per day, Physiotherapists once or twice per week!

Glad so glad I had both Vaccinations Sue!

By the note I wish FredaE a speedy recovery!

👌🤗🥰❤️

And yes carers at home, well done for looking after your family member (s) with love and dedication! You are amazing, loving and very dedicated people! Have a great week 💝

[Hidden in reply to Snowdrops_17]

A remarkable person Snowdrops_17. We so seldom get to hear about these quiet heroes! Hats off to them all. We are blessed to have had such a successful vaccination program! Like you I am so pleased I have both injections behind me! 👍🙏

[FredaE]

i w oke up with noright hand and not much right leg 3 weeks ago

muchbetter nowhome and still improving.

thksfor good wishes typing even worse

[sassy59 in reply to FredaE]

You’re doing really well FredaE and hope you’re improving with each passing day. Lots of love and hugs to you. Xx🤗💜

[Hellebelle in reply to FredaE]

Lovely to hear from you. Sending all good wishes for a speedy recovery. 💕

[sassy59]

Good afternoon Callendersgal,

I’ve just replied to FredaE and I wish her well after the stroke. It must be good to be home.

I think carers are amazing and do a wonderful job I count my blessings that caring for Pete isn’t too difficult at the moment. That may well change of course but I’m just thankful for each day and take nothing for granted.

I’m a huge fan of Kate Mosse and have read several of her books. She’s a lovely lady and l’m sure ‘An Extra Pair of Hands’ will be a good read. Kates mum in law is a very lucky lady.

Happy Carers Week to all and remember we’re all here for each other.

Take care everyone. Xxx🤗👍💜

[Hidden in reply to sassy59]

Do you have a favourite Kate Mosse sassy59. I must admit my favourite isn't one of her best known. It's The Winter Ghosts. I don't know if you've read that one but it really captured my imagination. But anyway, clearly a very caring and thoughtful lady who is making her mum-in-law's older age so much pleasanter. It's great stuff!

[sassy59 in reply to Hidden]

I really love Labyrinth and Citadel but I have read Winter Ghosts. Such a good writer and great lady. Xxxx

[Hellebelle]

Hi Callendersgal, Thank you for your very kind thoughts. I had also noticed FredaE's absence as she always gives such sound advice. If you are reading this FredaE, I am so sorry to hear about your ill health and send you lots of love and strength to get well as soon as possible.

Thinking of all the carers out there too. I hope you are managing to get some time to unwind in whatever way you can. 💕