Charlie, aged 8, and Thomas, 10, have to care for their sick mum, Sarah, who has needed numerous operations due to her chronic Crohn’s disease. This has left her with horrendous fatigue and needing daily medication. As a result the boys have to help with many jobs in the house, much more than other children their age, including preparing dinner and drinks, as well as doing other tasks; it is a routine way of life for them.
At least two kids in every class are a young carer. They have an increased risk of being bullied, underperforming in school, having reduced life chances and poor health. With your help we can improve lives and reduce the harmful effects of caring.
As well as Crohn’s disease, Sarah also has rheumatoid arthritis and in 2016 she was newly diagnosed with osteoporosis. She has blood clots in her bowel and osteoporosis in her eyes/legs/skin/mouth and now in her bones.
In May 2016 the boys were referred to our Young Carers Service in Cambridgeshire which relies solely on fundraising.
Sarah said “I am so grateful for Young Carers. They are doing complete wonders for my two boys – they love every minute of their time they spend with you all!! Thank you so, so much for making their childhood a little better with a poorly mum. Thank you again xxx 100% angels.”
Your support has allowed Thomas and Charlie to have several breaks from caring including visiting Hunstanton beach, Lady De Ramsey’s garden party and Wicksteed Park. Our James Griffin Bursary scheme awarded them bursaries enabling Thomas to go on a school trip and new school uniform to be purchased for Charlie.
