Llandudno Junction woman's years as a carer

Jun 17 2010 by Rayyan Parry, North Wales Weekly News

A WOMAN who cares for her husband living with a memory impairment has spoken of her life as a carer.

Mary Trinder, 65, from Llandudno Junction has been caring for her husband Jim for six years.

Jim, 78, developed an eye condition that left him partially sighted. It was then that Mary began her role as a carer.

As Jim’s condition became gradually worse, he suffered two strokes which left him with a memory impairment.

Now Mary provides day to day care for Jim, including organising activities and reminding her husband when his memory goes.

“It’s important for somebody to be around and be there to give the confidence,” said Mary.

Latest figures show that 79% of carers in Wales don’t have a social life outside of their caring role, often driving them into isolation and loneliness.

Eighty per cent of carers have also lost touch with family and friends and no longer rely on their support.

But Mary, who chairs Carers Wales and the Conwy Voluntary Services Council locally, is insistent on not letting that happen to her.

“I’ve seen so many carers fold under the stress,” she said.

“I do volunteering, it’s my way out. I’ve realised how important it is to have a life of your own as well.

“Knowing things is one thing, putting it into your life is another. You don’t like to face reality.

“I’m not ready to sit in a corner. I have been quite fortunate that we do have a close network of friends and family.”

Carers Week, running from June 14-20, aims to raise more awareness and celebrate the often invisible work of the UK’s six million carers.

The week is also working for major changes in the way carers live their lives.

The week is organised by seven national charities, including Carers UK and Macmillan Cancer Support, and is supported by a range of celebrities, including Cilla Black and Sir David Jason.

Paul Matz, Carers Week manager, says: “Carers need and deserve change. We need to see better access to advice and information, improved funding for breaks, and support and flexibility for carers at the workplace.

“Only then will carers get a real chance at a life of their own, and the opportunity to do some of the things the rest of us take for granted.”

Contact Carers Wales on 0808 808 7777 or see www.carerswales.org