MANDURAH resident Garry Aitchison cares for his wife Sandy. He not only cares for her like a husband cares for his wife, he also cares for her fulltime, helping with everyday tasks like preparing meals and cleaning the house.
“Fourteen years ago Sandy was bitten by a mozzie and caught Ross River fever,” Mr Aitchison said.
This was the beginning of an escalation of ailments that have led her to require a carer.
Mr Aitchison has been caring for his wife for 2½ years since taking over the role from their daughter.
But Mr Aitchison also needs his “own little group of carers” who look after him – the Red Cross Carers’ Support Service.
Once a month the group of carers meet to support each other.
“Knowing that a carers support meeting is coming up is a little bit of light at the end of the tunnel,” Mr Aitchison said.
Meeting with the other carers is a way he can look after himself and have some time just for him.
“Sandy is happy that I go to the support group; she knows that it gives me an out for a few hours of the day,” he said.
The group not only acts as a social outing, but also has guest speakers on issues relevant to the carers.
There are two carers support groups in Mandurah and one in Rockingham. The service is free and respite can be arranged for the person a carer looks after, as well as transport to and from the support groups if required.
Call Debby 08 9225 1940 or email dwilliums@redcross.org.au.