Your stories
11th June 2021
As part of Carers Week, we're raising awareness of caring, highlighting the challenges unpaid carers face and recognising the contribution they make to families and communities throughout the UK.
We are coming together to Make Caring Visible and Valued.
A story about a parent carer
“Over the years needs change and I think we as a family have learned to adjust to these needs. The support we have given and continue to give comes in the shape of everyday life.”
49 years ago, when my son was born with hydrocephalus, there was very little understanding of the condition or its long-term effects.
He has received excellent medical treatment for shunt surgery for over 27 years, the first when he was only 4 months old and several subsequent operations since, and for this, we are eternally grateful.
Over the years needs change and I think we as a family have learned to adjust to these needs. The support we have given and continue to give comes in the shape of everyday life. Motivation, confidence building, encouragement, getting around outside (appointments, etc) and memory prompting.
In recent years what has really helped is discovering Shine. We have learned so much about hydrocephalus from reading Together Magazine, attending zoom meetings and quiz sessions with Shine staff and members.
Knowing there is someone who understands is a great comfort. Thank you Shine and your wonderful staff.
We offer support and can make referrals to those caring for Shine members, and we also want those who don't think of themselves as having caring responsibilities to identify as carers and be able to access much-needed support.
Please call us on 01733 555988 or email firstcontact@shinecharity.org.uk to find out how we can help.