Tony's story
When Tony, 55, married his wife June he always knew that their lives were going to be different to other married couples. June, who is in her late forties, has lived with schizophrenia since before the couple met, and today, Tony is not only her devoted husband but also her full time carer.
Living with schizophrenia can be very distressing for June. She will often hear voices which sometimes lead her to self harm. Her sleep gets disturbed as at times she can become vocal, reacting to what the voices are saying, and at these times, Tony wakes to comfort her.
Throughout the day Tony keeps home life as calm as possible ensuring June doesn’t have to do much around the house. This can be tiring for Tony and he can get very emotional seeing his wife suffering.
Tony found out about the Caring with Confidence sessions through the Tree of Life Centre in Wythenshawe. Tony said: “As well as schizophrenia, June also suffers from angina, asthma and epilepsy which can at times be a lot to have to think about. The Caring with Confidence sessions have really helped me put things into perspective and meet other people going through similar situations.
“The tips and advice I gained from the other carers about how to manage different circumstances have helped me to be able to take a step back and cope a lot better when it is all getting a bit too much.
“The resource books we are given at the sessions are also really useful. If I ever need a reminder or just want to reassure myself I am doing the right thing I refer back to them.”
Tony also finds comfort in a new friend he made at the Caring with Confidence sessions as they both turn to each other when they need someone to talk to.