Carers Week: Millions of Reasons to Care
13-19 October 2024
In recognition of the Carers Australia national theme 'Millions of Reasons to Care', BrainLink will promote stories that showcase many of those reasons throughout the week.
BrainLink’s message is to take time out from your caring role, keep active and stay socially connected and we can help you do all of that.
Learn more about Carers Week
Paul's story
My journey as a carer began over 50 years ago when I held my first son. Growing up with three siblings taught me responsibility, but nothing prepared me for raising children alone after my eldest was seven. This role has defined me in ways I never anticipated.
Now, I share my home with my son and we live near my other children who have their own families, continuing the family bonds that ground me. Caring is demanding and exhausting, but it fills my heart in unexpected ways. Each challenge has taught me about love, resilience, and commitment.
Watching my sons grow and knowing they feel supported is all I could hope for. Every evening, as I tuck them into bed, I feel a sense of accomplishment. My efforts, late nights, and sacrifices don’t go unnoticed. Community organizations and services have been invaluable, reminding me that caring is a shared journey.
I can’t stress enough the importance of finding a supportive community. “You have to find your people,” I advise anyone stepping into this role. For me, organizations like BrainLink and the carer support team, along with the NDIS coordinators, have been lifelines. They’ve become like family—there in times of crisis, or simply when I need someone to listen. Connecting with others who understand can make all the difference, allowing me to share burdens and triumphs alike.
The knowledge that I’m impacting my sons’ lives keeps me going. Each moment of joy and each milestone fuels my spirit. I’ve gained wisdom I wish to share with new carers: caring for another creates priceless bonds. Finding a supportive community is crucial. Organizations like BrainLink and the NDIS coordinators have been lifelines, allowing me to share burdens and triumphs.
My story is a testament to the power of love and commitment in caring. While the road is demanding, it’s also filled with precious moments and connections. Community, perseverance, and the rewarding nature of caring make even the toughest days brighter. Each experience serves as a guiding light for my journey and hopefully inspires others to navigate their caregiving paths with heart and resilience.