Family Carers Speak Up 1m+ New Zealanders care for someone in their family or whānau who is frail, unwell, or has a long-term health condition or disability. Here are some of their stories. Renee's StoryDear Hon Penny Simmonds and Paula Tesoriero,I am a carer of two (potentially three) children with challenges such as Autism, Intellectual Disability, ADHD, Anxiety, Oppositional Defiance Disorder, Avoidant Food RestrictiveRead more Shannon's StoryWhat if it was you? Shannon Douglas of Whangarei says a lot more consideration and support is needed for New Zealand’s 1m+ family, whānau, and āiga carers. Read more Maxine's Story I have two co-existing emotions: exhaustion and dread I am exhausted because in the past six years, I have had only about 20 days when I wasn’t a full- time carer, Read more Wendy's Story Sandwich generation caregiving Life can change in a flash, with none of us immune. No one knows that better than Wendy Slieker and her husband Steve Kallipolitis. Read more Allanah's Story Supporting disabled family carers Allanah* is one of the 40+% of New Zealand family carers who have a disability themselves while caring for other family members who are unwell or have disabilities.Read more Cherie's Story I have been my son’s mum and Carer for more than 7,000 days nowIn 2003, I became a mother to twins. My daughter, Holly, was healthy, and my son, Mitchell, was born with a rare disorder. Read more
