We recently caught up with one of our long-standing care in the home clients, Patty, to learn more about how our service has supported her over the years and enabled her to live a varied and fascinating life, including a recent trip to Australia to see her sister and her family!
Can you tell us a bit about how you came to be cared for by our care in the home division?
“I had a stroke 17 years ago which left me in a wheelchair. My late husband was initially able to provide care for me, but about seven years ago, when he could no longer drive or cook, we started receiving support from care in the home support workers. They have assisted with transportation, meal preparation, and personal care ever since. Sadly, my husband passed away in 2022 after battling multiple systems atrophy, but the support workers have been invaluable throughout.”
What is your relationship like with your support workers?
“I have a good relationship with the support workers. They are all very friendly. I’ve even taken some of them to the theatre and exhibitions with me over the years.”
You recently took an amazing trip to Australia — can you tell us about that experience?
“My younger sister lives in Australia, so that’s why we decided to visit. I took two support workers with me. We flew via Singapore and spent a few days there on the way. In Australia, my sister had organised an incredible house right on the ocean with a hospital bed, wet room, and open living areas — it was perfectly accessible.
We did so many wonderful things — visiting the Sydney Opera House twice to see a ballet and an incredible Verdi opera performance, a trip to the Blue Mountains, the Walkabout Wildlife Sanctuary where I got to hold snakes and other reptiles, going to beaches in a beach wheelchair, cruising Sydney harbour and the Hawkesbury river, visiting art galleries, and more. The support workers ensured I could fully experience and enjoy everything. It was an absolutely magical trip that I’ll never forget!”
Do you have any other trips planned soon?
“We’re going up to Silverstone at the end of this month for a friend’s 25th wedding anniversary, but other than that I need to focus on some home renovations for now before planning my next big adventure.”
How would you describe the difference care in the home makes in your life?
“Having the support workers from care in the home has given me so much more confidence and independence. I used to avoid traveling into London by train, but now I’m a pro at it because they are always there to help. And because they are all capable drivers, they’re happy to take me on day trips to places like Bath and Silverstone.
Their assistance has really enabled me to live life to the fullest despite my mobility challenges. I’m so grateful for their care.”
We’re delighted to hear how our care in the home services have enriched Patty’s life and allowed her to keep exploring the world. Having caring, capable support makes all the difference.
