Mum caring for son with Cerebral Palsy tells of joy at being reunited with family this weekend – Chronicle Live

Dedicating their lives to looking after their loved ones, hundreds of unpaid carers have found coronavirus lockdown tough.

Feeling isolated while unable to see her family, mum-of-three Fran Currington has found the last 11 weeks incredibly hard.

After Frans husband Victor sadly passed away aged 52 of organ failure on 23 September 2010, she is now the sole carer for her 28-year-old son Steven.

Steven was born with Spastic Quadriplegia Cerebral Palsy and is completely dependant on his mums around the clock care.

Following Boris Johnson's announcement on June 10 that single parents will be able to form a 'support bubble' with one other household from Saturday, Fran is over the moon she and Steven can see family.

One of Fran's other sons Michael lives in Birmingham with wife Sarah and their four-year-old son Alex.

The 59-year-old mum from Gateshead said: "During lockdown I don't have anyone to talk to as Steven cant speak or communicate or do anything for himself.

"Paid carers visit our home three times a day but only for a total of 1 hour. We have a bit of a chat but it is only for such a short time.

"I was overjoyed following the government's announcement, it will be so nice to be able to see my son Michael, his wife Sarah and my little grandson Alex, and finally give them all a hug."

Steven receives respite care from 9 am - 3 pm Monday to Friday which gives Fran some time for herself.

Fran suffers from clinical depression so this time would allow her to rest while knowing her son was being well-cared for.

After hearing about Gateshead Carers, a charity supporting unpaid carers in Gateshead, Fran decided to reach out for support.

The charity has become a lifeline to her and she gained help from a support worker and enjoys going on carers trips.

And the charity has continued offering vital support throughout lockdown.

Fran added: "I often feel invisible as a carer and that no one else understands.

"During lockdown, Gateshead Carers have called me every week to check that I am okay and it has been so nice to hear that somebody cares and is there for me. They are a great organisation and I am so pleased I got to know them."

If you are a carer or know someone who would like support visit Gateshead Carers Website: https://www.gatesheadcarers.com/

View original post here:
Mum caring for son with Cerebral Palsy tells of joy at being reunited with family this weekend - Chronicle Live