Diane named Louth Carer of the Year 2017
BLACKROCK woman Diane Arthur was named the Louth Carer of the year 2017 at a special ceremony on Friday last.
Diane, who is a full time carer for her daughter Kim (29) was surrounded by her family and friends as she accepted the award from Family Carers Ireland at Dundalk Golf Club.
Kim, who had nominated her mum for the Carer of the Year award, first began to display the symptoms of the rare condition Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) five years ago.
She was just 24 years old, and was working as a midwife in Mullingar.
As her condition deteriorated, the diagnosis was confirmed, and she began to require full time care.
Speaking to the Argus, Diane, explained that she was ‘ totally surprised’ to have won the award, as she hadn’t been aware she was nominated.
She also spoke about the challenges of her daughter’s condition.
‘It is a rare genetic condition that affects the connective tissue which provides support to the skin, tendons, ligaments, blood vessels, internal organs and bones.
As you can imagine, this means it displays a wide range of symptoms, and while for some it is mild, for others it is life threatening.’
She said Kim is ‘very high on the spectrum’ causing her to faint every day, and leading to her joints becoming dislocated.
The risks posed by the condition mean that Kim needs full time care, and has appointments in Dublin three times a week.
Due to the rare nature of her condition, Kim also has to be taken to London once every 12 weeks to access specialist treatment.
‘It is a difficult process getting her to London,’ said Diane. ‘But the treatment is starting to have an impact.’
Despite this, Diane and her family have had to accept that there is no cure for EDS, and that it is progressive.
‘But it is known as the hidden illness, as there are times Kim doesn’t need to use the wheelchair.’
The Blackrock woman’s award also came after the sad loss of her sister last year. Diane spent time caring for her, and is now guardian to her sister’s children.
Saying that she was ‘very grateful’ to have received the award, she thanked Family Carers Ireland, saying that it had vital in providing support and information on entitlements and other issues
She also thanked Blackrock Flowers for the beautiful bouquet presented to her on the day, Care Plus Pharmacy for the hamper and Eilish Brady from the Gift and Art Gallery.