.......asked Louise when her university ready daughter and her visited Invisible Army exhibition in The Vestibules. In their family of 5 they brought up Mikey who has Williams Syndrome.
Williams syndrome is a developmental disorder that affects many parts of the body. This condition is characterised by mild to moderate intellectual disability or learning problems, unique personality characteristics, distinctive facial features, and heart and blood vessel (cardiovascular) problems. Louise tells that she never suffered from exhaustion from sleepless nights or felt she had to give up a career to look after her son so even though their family live slightly differently to most she would feel like a cheat to be part of this project when she comepares herself to families who 24/7 look after a loved one. I believe that Louise and her family are all unpaid carers who should be celebrated.
Many unpaid carers do not see themselves as carers but they contribute to society by dealing with the demands of bringing up another person who needs more care than luncheon club, child care and schooling.
And lovely Annie came to look and read and she has luckily agreed to let us take her portrait and write her story. 3 Years ago her mother passed away after suffering from multiple mental and physical illness. Annie was a carer from a young age and now as a woman in her mid 20s she is trying to find balance in her new life without the purpose of being a carer. I will be looking forward to spending time with her next week
I will also try to convince Louise and Jo to take part and make them believe that they need to be appreciated and valued too.