h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

....Who cares for the carers?

Rather than repeat everything I wrote for the Post some time ago I'll just put links. It's a classic example of how the health, wealth and well being of a carer can also be badly affected.

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Both my GP and Cardiologist have no doubt that the stress's and strains took its toll and have made my already dodgy ticker a darn sight worse than it need be.
My advice to anyone caring for friends, relatives or whatever, don't be afraid to ask for help and get a break. Start with your own GP, Social Services or (in the UK), contact the carers charity, now called Aspects. Afterall, what happens to the person you care for if you yourself end up ill and needing care?

Indeed so, BMT.

I was poorly the other day, nowt serious, just a small tummy bug, however, that meant that I couldn't bear the thought of cooking. Hubby made tea for him and our son, nowt elaborate, just fish and chips made in the oven - and then - did the washing up. It buggared him up!

What can you do?

Sympathies. I also do everything in my house, and carry on, my dear

I'm afraid I value the microwave at times like this. I remember when my wife was in hospital for a spell, I'd visit her until 8 (kicking out time) then walk home, get in about nine and be too tired to cook anything properly, so being able to nuke something was a real boon. I think you always have to be as prepared as you can, it's been a learning curve for me (still is) getting used to coping when my wife takes a turn for the worse and she can't do what she usually does around the house. My wife is a great one for having systems for everything and trying to make sure that things like the washing up are done straight away, such that, should the circumstances dictate, all the little jobs have already been done and you can make time for the other work or, god forbid, a rest for yourself. I also recommend a good long hot bath and a glass of wine. Always have wine.

I don't have a bath anymore, just a rather funly walk-in shower. It's does, however, have a pull down seat and can be taken to 10. All Men (and carers) Play on 10

Always have cider and vodka.

Ahhh... cider. Everyone's friend. That is good, that is very good.

is no good for me, I'm allergic to it

Malibu is my treat tipple

Well as long as you've got something to keep you going when the going gets tough, that's what matters.

I'm not allowed alcohol anymore due to the mega doses of meds I'm on. Been -total for over 10 years now and I don't drink either.

Was supposed to get to the post office, pay the bills and get the shopping today.

Couldn't - spent the day on the settee sleeping off one of the worst migraines I've had in months. Eyes went funny, not safe to use a kettle - and that's even after the tablets had started working. My caree (has M.E.) had to more or less fend for himself - luckily, one of his slightly less bad days and he hadn't got to be anywhere.

As a result, the freezer got raided for tea (sausages thin enough to thaw quickly) and then tomorrow I've got to get today's stuff done, plus dropping off a repeat prescription (not in the same direction) and getting some washing done. Oh joy, oh rapture.