Caregiver Respite

Being a caregiver is not an easy job, and many don’t fully understand how demanding, stressful and never ending this uninvited role becomes. It’s a responsibility that never goes away – 24/7 and sparks many emotions in both parties; the caregiver and the one who is disabled. I am well aware of how my devoted wonderful husband needs a break from the daily task of taking care of me. My husband has a Skipper’s Licence, and had the opportunity of sailing with a group of other qualified skippers for five days. Naturally part of me didn't want him to go, but I knew it was important for him to clear his head, and have a complete break from work and looking after me. It took them 28 hours to sail non-stop there with winds of 25 knots, swells and waves up to 2 meters. They moored for a day in a marina, going ashore to sample local cuisine, before making the return journey. This morning my sweetheart returned home, and it’s awfully good to have him back. He looks great, and has had an amazing experience, an adventure that re-charged his batteries and did him the world of good. So my advice to any caregiver is to take care of yourself, for you deserve a break and it’s essential to take leave now and then. Likewise I would say to any fellow sufferer, how crucial it is consenting wholeheartedly for your caregiver to have a deserved time-out, acknowledging their needs are just as important.