CARING FOR THE CARERS
CARERS from around the country joined together in Ballyvaloo Retreat Centre for a rare and much-appreciated bit of pampering as part of the ‘Caring for Carer’s’ weekend.
Hosted by the Wexford Lions Club, the third annual event saw 26 carers from Dublin, Kildare, Tipperary, Waterford, Wexford and Wicklow come together for a weekend of R and R. The guests were well looked after over the course of the two days, with Lions Clubs in each area sponsoring their guest’s stay.
Guests were greeted by Mayor Frank Staples, who acknowledged the role that carers play in our community and the work they do.
‘You take on a responsibility that doesn’t operate Monday to Friday, nine to five, but more often, a twenty four/seven role which can be very rewarding but also overwhelm- ing at times,’ he said.
He thanked the Lions Club for their work throughout the year and their recognition of some of the most valuable people in our communities.
President of Wexford Lions Club Dan Redmond joined the Mayor in welcoming the guests and reminded them that the weekend was all about them.
‘You are often forgotten for the work you do. Wexford Lions Club is privileged to host this weekend for you,’ he said.
He went to thank the organising committee, headed by Lion Trina Barnes, and the club as a whole for the work put into organising the weekend.
The weekend was certainly all about the guests, as a host of activities were organised in their honour. Live music on Friday and Saturday night as well as presentations from an IT specialist and motivational speaker Bob Carley kicked off the weekend. Guests also enjoyed group and individual sessions with a reflexologist, beautician, fashion advisor and counsellor.
Throughout the weekend, the carers had the opportunity to swap stories about their own experience, which many agreed was a very positive and encouraging experience.
‘We were treated like dignitaries; it was such a happy time and will have an everlasting effect on all who attended,’ one of the guests told Wexford Lion’s Club in a post-weekend survey.
The Caring for Carer’s weekend is held in Sligo and Wexford on an annual basis, with Lions Clubs across the country sponsoring guests to attend. The next Wexford weekend will be in the autumn of 2017. This and similar events hosted by the Lions Club are provided for from public donations.
On behalf of the Caring for Carer’s guests, the Lions Club expressed their gratitude to everyone who donates to their local club, enabling them to continue to serve their local community.