Client stories

Most 18 year olds are either at Uni, working, on a gap year or hanging out with friends. But Gabi Palme isn’t most 18 year olds. Gabi is a young carer. In fact, she is one of Australia’s 235,300 unpaid young carers under the age of 25. She cares for her 90 year old grandma, Elaine, who suffered from a stroke in January earlier this year. Both Gabi’s parents are in the teaching profession and work full time so she takes care of Elaine – who has moved into the family home.

Courtney looks after her mum, who has multiple sclerosis. She knows that carers need their own support, so they can continue to support the person they care for.

Both David and Mel look after members of their family. They have found that talking to other carers and counsellors makes a real difference to their lives.

Anne cares for her partner, Edie, who has dementia. It’s a demanding, full-time role, balanced with love, trust and commitment.

Dolly cares for her 2 daughters – Gemma who has a mental health condition, and Sheena who has an intellectual disability. She finds respite helps her to enjoy caring again when she comes back home.

Rachel cares full time for her daughter, Emily, who is a quadriplegic. She has found caring is done best when it’s shared with family and friends.