18. Caring for Ken; David’s Story (part 1)

Family, Whanau and Disability

Research and co-ordination: Lisa Pirihi and Carolyn Jury
Presenter: Louise Ratcliffe
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe and FreeFM89.0
Guests: David Taylor
Dad, Husband, Carer, Builder, Inventor David grew up on Waiheke Island the youngest of 4 siblings. In the 1970s, his older brother, Ken, had a motorbike accident which left him an amputee and with severe spinal injuries. Eventually, David and his wife decided to care for Ken in their own home as he needed round-the-clock care as his condition slowly deteriorated.
David cared for his brother for over 10 years, both by himself, and as Lead Carer working alongside care support agencies.
Over the years David has learned a lot about the rollercoaster of providing care for a loved one, and he has kindly agreed to share his story with us.
Programme Synopsis

• Being a carer, the support you need
• Working with agencies and hiring care support workers
• David’s story continues next week

Music
“No one’s heros” Stiff Little Fingers
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, Support
Connect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links

• http://www.healthvision.co.nz
• http://www.lifeplus.co.nz
• Presbeterian Support NZ
• Safesquares
• Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
• Altogether Autism
• Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
• Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only