Running from Sunday 15 to Saturday 21 October 2023, National Carers Week recognises the 2.65 million Australians who provide care and support to a family member or friend. Throughout National Carers Week, we will be sharing stories from the Afford community to raise awareness about the diversity of carers and their caring roles.
Are you a carer or know someone who is? Tap this link to provide to provide feedback about what would make carer experiences better: bit.ly/Carer-Feedback
Deb’s story
Deb cares for her daughter, Tegan, who is an Afford client.
I am the mother of a 36 year old daughter who was born with 1p36 deletion syndrome. She has lived with us for her whole life.
There have been so many memorable moments with Tegan. Something that springs to mind recently has been our combined efforts at growing vegetables in her vegie pod. Just a couple of weeks ago, we harvested our first carrots together and they were perfect! It was so rewarding to see how proud she was of this achievement.
Like us, many people have a lifetime commitment to making sure the person they care for lives a full and happy life. My advice to other carers is use whatever services are available because it will help you and the person you care for.
Tony’s story
Tony cares for his brother, Paul, who is an Afford client.
I had a career in the banking sector for 30+ years when our father passed away. My baby brother Paul has cerebral palsy and he had lived his entire life in our family home. I believed that if he was forced out of his home, it would adversely affect his quality of life. So, I left my career behind to take on the role as full time carer for him.
Caring is quite challenging at times. Negotiating the NDIS process is quite daunting. I had to go all the way to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal in one instance where fortunately we received a good result. That process is very intimidating and difficult to deal with.
But overall, I find it to be fulfilling and rewarding. I love my brother dearly and am very proud of him in so many ways. He is a fine man, quite articulate and very smart.
My advice to other carers is that you are the engine that drives the whole caring vehicle. If the engine is not fully maintained, the vehicle will break down and all progress stops.
Siu’s story
Siu cares for family members, including his brother, Darnell, who is a supported employee at Afford.
I care for my brother who lives with autism and intellectual disability and I recently started my own disability support and care service.
We are a family and we care for each other. That includes my nephews, five strong wahine tuafifine younger sisters, and four younger brothers.
The value of sharing our story might be that we are imaginative, courageous, and family-centred. I like to say let’s start with a conversation and go from there.
My advice to other carers is eat well, drink plenty of water, consider the impact, and listen to your body!
Scott’s story
Scott cares for his brother Glen, who is a supported employee at Afford.
I admitted my father into full time care in March 2022 and then my mother passed away in May 2022, meaning I had to move into my parents’ home become a carer for my brother Glen. Getting my head around NDIS, his support programs and getting his life structured was quite a lot to take on, especially after the death of mother and supporting my own three children and my wife.
Glen lives with intellectual disability, and he is a works at Afford’s Prestons factory. He likes to be independent but struggles with hygiene, finances and not having structure. Glen regularly wants to help others and be friendly, and sometimes that is to his detriment. But overall, compared to other carers, in a lot of ways I have it quite easy.
Some of the most memorable moments are seeing Glen come home with awards from ten pin bowling, and seeing videos and photos on Facebook of his group outings with other disabled adults showing he has a fulfilling life.
My advice to other carers would be to make time for yourself and your partner. Do not put yourself last. Have that regular dinner or date night with your partner to keep communication open and to maintain your relationship.
Lenora’s story
Lenora cares for her son, Jeremy, who is a supported employee at Afford.
I share many memorable moments with Jeremy daily. He is such a beautiful young man with a gentle easy going and happy nature.
Being a carer is a rewarding experience. I wouldn’t change a thing. I am proud to call him my son. I would tell other carers to always remember that you also matter too. You’ve got this!
Beverley’s story
Beverley cares for her daughter, Naomi, who is an Afford client.
After 53 years of caring for my daughter Naomi, maybe others will be interested in what I can share.
Many years ago, I heard a story from a woman. Her daughter was so bright and could do anything. I remember thinking if only Naomi was like that. Naomi could not talk and do very little.
My family made fun of her, and it hurt. But after hearing the woman’s story, I put everything into Naomi. The hardship, the times that people – including family – said things that ripped me up… It cost me a marriage, being left out of weddings and birthdays. But look at Naomi. She’s worth it! So, I never went to parties or weddings? Who cares? I’ve got Naomi.
I still cry in secret but yes, I have a carer story and it might help someone else see there’s hope.
National Carers Week
There are some great ways you can take part in National Carers Week by spreading the word and raising awareness. Find out more at afford.com.au/blog.
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