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Carers Week

Meet Our People: Jessica Lewis

As Carers Week is celebrated, Jessica’s story shines a light on the incredible dedication and resilience of carers worldwide.

Jessica, a Despatcher and Shift Manager at HUC since 2019, juggles her professional responsibilities with the round-the-clock demands of being a full-time carer for her 6-year-old daughter, Avah. 

Avah, who is non-verbal and unable to walk or communicate her needs, requires constant care and advocacy. “She cannot walk or talk and needs someone there to do all the tasks for her as she cannot do it herself,” Jessica explains. “She is also non-verbal, so you instantly become an advocate for her to make sure she’s happy and comfortable, which is the biggest goal for her as parents.”

Beyond the physical demands of caregiving, Jessica’s role encompasses a number of responsibilities. “With addition to caring for her, you also have hospital appointments, chasing appointments, ordering and collecting her medication and having reviews to make sure she’s on the right ones, respite care, and research to make sure you are making the best decisions for her.”

For years, the weight of these duties left little room for self-care. However, with  respite care and understanding management at HUC, Jessica has slowly started to reclaim moments for herself. “We now get respite care for Avah, which includes a carer, and in the summer holidays, she also attends Mencap Playscheme two days a week, which gives us as parents the needed break. We have to make sure we do something for us,” she says.

 

 

Jessica Lewis

Prioritising self-care

While these breaks are often filled with practical tasks, Jessica and her partner are learning to prioritise self-care activities. “We are slowly learning self-care and starting to do things for ourselves, like going to the cinema or going out for dinner,” she shares.

Jessica has also found solace in physical activity, recognising the importance of maintaining her strength to care for Avah as she grows. “A personal form of self-care is me going to the gym, but it also benefits Avah as she is getting bigger and stronger. I need to make myself stronger so I can keep lifting her.”

Despite the challenges, Jessica’s love for her daughter fuels her determination. “Caring for someone is something that isn’t discussed much about, and I find isn’t celebrated. What a great job all the carers out there are doing!” she exclaims. “I’m hoping that carers start getting the support they need rather than us having to fight at every obstacle!”

Jessica’s story is an important reminder of the unsung heroes among us – the carers who pour their hearts into ensuring the well-being of their loved ones, often sacrificing their own needs in the process. As Carers Day is commemorated, it’s a call to recognise and support these extraordinary individuals, who embody the true essence of love, strength, and resilience.