By NICOLE VALICEK
LOCAL woman Bev, who gives up part of her week to look after her disabled sister, said she could not have done it without the help of a local support group.
Bev has cared for her sister Marl, who is legally blind in both eyes for about three years, and became a part-time carer more than a year ago when Marl’s husband passed away.
By this time Marl required oxygen 24-hours a day.
Bev said her role as shared-carer includes taking Marl to hospital and doctor appointments, helping with shopping and cooking.
The caring sister said she enjoys caring for Marl and feels a strong sense of altruism for her and others.
“I do not do this to feel good, it’s something I need to do with my life,” she said.
“I really feel strongly about altruism because I’m like that with others.”
But despite this Bev said it was important to have support as a carer and she attends a Grow-Better Together Support Group for Families, Friends and Carers in Laverton.
“You can never know everything, an ordinary person can’t have enough support dealing with problems people with a disability have.
“The friendly support of other people in a similar role and the compassion that goes with that is really important.”
Grow is a national organisation that provides recovery focused self-help support groups to those suffering from mental health and other issues.
“The grow program provides knowledge and you can learn and grow better together.”
Meetings are held at the Laverton Community Hub. For more information call 1800 558 268 or visit. www.grow.net.au
