Siblings - say hi here :-)

[I_am_a_sibling]

Hi everyone,

I wanted to create a post that was for siblings of people with learning disabilities to come together. I’m Frances, and my older brother has a severe learning disability. He lives with our folks, who are his full-time carers and goes to a day centre that he loves. We also have a sister, who is a Mum to our adorable wee nephew.

Being a sibling has shaped who I am. I wouldn’t have become an occupational therapist, got involved with Sibs, been able to keep cool in a crisis or had such a wide perspective on life if it hadn’t been for growing up with our lad. There’s the future to think about too, and all the uncertainty around that.

So I wanted to give a wave and a shout out to other siblings, invite you to say hi, share your story and most of all – to know that you’re not alone.

F x

PS

Because I can’t resist sharing this – have a look at this unique and life-changing charity - sibs.org.uk and youngsibs.org.uk

PPS

I’m once you’ve said hi, join me on another thread ‘Siblings – share a memory that makes you smile’ healthunlocked.com/mencap/p...

[Dandyman01]

Hi Frances,

Hats off to you for all that you are doing for the Learning Disabled. My son is one of them {with Autism too} but, sadly, I have not seen him for a while. We did nothing wrong. He was stolen by the 'secret behind closed doors system' and he has become worse of in every aspect of life. I now suffer from Depression/Anxiety. Sorry, that is the situation. If I can give any input please let me know. Cheers, Danx

[I_am_a_sibling Survey Community friend in reply to Dandyman01]

Hi Dandyman01 , this is awful to hear. I'm so sorry your son is behind closed doors. Too many are, and yes - worse off for it. I am not surprised you suffer with depression and anxiety, it must be so hard knowing he is there. I hope you have good support nearby for yourself? It's so kind of you to offer to give input - if you meet any siblings of people with LD/autism along your way, do tell them about this forum and about sibs.org.uk

All the best to you, Fx