Lena’s Story

Lena has been caring for both her dad and brother for over 13 years.

Her father has several health issues, including: Arthritis, a hearing impairment, a heart condition, and he has had a stroke. Her brother has learning disabilities and is living with cancer. Here is Lena’s story:

“I didn’t realise I was a carer until seven years in. My dad did not live with me but I went to see him every day, often leaving home at 10am and returning at 7pm. Combined with my own health condition and disability, I began to find it too much and had to arrange for additional care support for Dad. It was only at this point I realised I was a carer.

Caring brought various challenges, including depression, but also personal growth. Talking therapies helped me through some tough times, and I’ve gained confidence from what I have learnt at the group to be able to speak to professionals and manage appointments, with more confidence.

I was referred to Carers in Hertfordshire by a nurse at my GP surgery. My first visit to one of your Carer Hub groups was eye-opening. It was comforting to know I wasn’t alone. I learnt so much from other carers.

I heard about mentoring at this Hub and thought it sounded interesting. The Hub Leader advised me to call one of the Carer Support Advisors who talked through the programme and helped me decide that it whether it might be useful for me.

Mentoring gave me a safe space to ask questions and feel supported. It was good to talk to someone outside my family. They helped me find answers and made me feel heard.

I really value the ongoing support. It’s lonely being a carer, but the Hub and Keep in Touch calls remind you someone cares. People always ask about the people we care for, but Carers in Hertfordshire ask about you.”

My advice to other carers?
“Sometimes you need to say, I have everything I need, now I need a break.”