Publish date: 9 June 2023
As part of Carers Week (5-11 June), we’re sharing one of our inspiring carer stories.
In ‘The Art of Spinning Plates’, Alex W helps shed light on the experiences of our colleagues who have embraced the role of caregivers alongside their professional responsibilities. In it, Alex W shares her own personal journey as a carer. Showing the strength, resilience, and compassion that many of our staff carers symbolise every day.
Alex has been with the Trust for a number of years, making a significant impact in her role. However, her life took an unexpected turn five years ago. Suddenly, she found herself working through the complex and demanding world of caregiving, balancing her professional commitments with the responsibility of supporting her son’s healthcare needs.
The initial period was overwhelming for Alex. The demands of her dual roles tested her emotionally, physically, and mentally. She struggled to find a balance between work deadlines and the responsibilities of caregiving, often feeling stretched thin. However, Alex's determination and her unwavering love for her child motivated her to look for support and connect with others who were going through similar experiences.
It was through the Trust’s existing support groups that Alex discovered the importance of building a community. She realised the huge value of sharing stories, seeking advice, and finding comfort among colleagues who understood the unique challenges of being a working carer.
Thank you to Alex for bravely sharing her journey as a carer, her experiences and allowing us to gain insight into the challenges and rewards of being a carer.
Read Alex's carer experience: The Art of Spinning Plates here.