Every carer's situation is unique but there are lots of common themes, things that many experience because of their caring role. Some of the carers we've supported have kindly shared their story with us... If you'd like to do the same, please email your story to [email protected] with a photo. Thank you!
Shirley, 80, has always been a lively part of her Guildford community, but alongside this she cares for her husband Brian, who lives with early onset dementia and prostate cancer. Like many carers, she didn’t recognise her role at first, but as Brian’s needs grew, so did the challenges she faced.
Read young carer Dominique’s story - about being a young carer for her autistic and non-verbal brother, helping out at home, and the support she's got from Action for Carers Surrey.
Gracie’s has helped care for her sister from a young age. She talks about the challenges she faces, and how Surrey Young Carers has helped her take a break from caring.
Carer Vicky took part in the Surrey Half Marathon for Action for Carers in recognition of the support she and her son have received.
Former carer Francis was inspired to do the Camino de Santiago Challenge in memory of his late wife Carol, and in thanks of the support he received from Action for Carers
Sibling carers Nell and Ned, now young adults, talk about growing up caring for their Mum
Laura (who now works for Action for Carers) was caring for her daughter who has conditions including Autism for years without realising she was a carer. She's now a 'sandwich carer' too, giving her dad additional practical help and support.
Trevor has cared for his wife Linda for over 20 years. He shares some of their wonderful life together, and what caring has been like for him.
Amanda is in her 60s and lives in Surrey. She was formerly, and for a long time, carer for her husband.
Elliot cares for his brother who has autism and talks about how that experience affected his upbringing and who he is now.
Surrey carer Al reflects on caring for his wife, J, who developed Alzheimer's, including tips for other carers, as well as facing the difficult situation of moving to a care home.
Young carer Antony looks after his older brother who is Autistic. He gets a lot from being part of Surrey Young Carers, and from his caring role.
