Son’s boy is dying... I feel so helpless
by researching what’s available and pestering the authorities – from your computer! There has been a lot of criticism of government recently regarding such meagre support.
So let me point you towards a charity that particularly tries to help families with a child who has a lifethreatening or lifelimiting condition.
Have your son and his wife had any respite care?
Children’s hospices can provide short residential breaks where your child – or even the whole family – can stay. They look after your child while you relax and rest or perhaps enjoy a few days away on holiday. Remember, if a child has a life-limiting or lifethreatening condition, social services have a statutory responsibility to assess your needs and provide short breaks and care in the home as necessary. Have you even started along that journey?
Many don’t know such help is not only available but obligatory – usually because they’re so busy caring that they can’t do the research, the nagging or the demanding! That could be your role.
Start with www. togetherforshortlives. org.uk.
They have lots of online information and links to other groups that could help. Or call them on 0808 8088 100.
Many parents are too busy caring to find the help that’s available. You can do it from your computer