The right support at the right time

Michael has lived with the long-term effects of rare neurological conditions for most of his life. However, his story is not defined by limitation – rather it is a story of resilience. Moreover, it is a story of determination and having the right support at the right time.

As a child Michael was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome. This is a rare autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks peripheral nerves. It causes rapid muscle weakness and numbness. These symptoms often start in the legs and move upward.

Although he worked hard to rebuild his strength, Michael was left with lasting physical challenges.

“When it’s done with you, you’ve been in bed for a long time and you lose the ability to walk, coordinate and everything, so you have to basically go through proper physiotherapy and learn everything again essentially,” he explains.

Entrusting Caremark with his care

Later, in adulthood, Michael was struck another blow when he developed another rare condition, Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO). This is another autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the spinal cord and optic nerves.

After returning home from hospital, despite amazing support from his mum, with whom he lives, Michael found it harder to manage alone.

“I struggled to look after myself and do personal care and other things,” he adds.

Michael was driving one day when he spotted someone with a Caremark uniform. He pulled over to ask her a few questions. Consequently, this led him to entrusting us with his care. Three years later, he says it was the best decision he has made.

Help with everyday tasks that make a real difference

Our carers visit him three days a week to help with personal care and meal preparation. They also help with everyday household tasks that make a real difference to his routine.

Our support helps Michael continue living life on his own terms. He works full-time for Haringey Council and strives to remain as independent as possible.

“When I first needed care, I used two companies because I always felt I needed a plan B if something went wrong, but I don’t need to worry about that with Caremark,” he says.

“I would 100% recommend Caremark. What stands out most is their responsiveness and warmth of the team. They are natural carers.

“To me, they feel like a family and if I need something, I know I’m going to get a response.”

Spurs supporting Michael insists there’s only one downside so far – one of his carers, Yvonne, is an Arsenal supporter.

“She’s absolutely brilliant,” he laughs. “The only problem is she’s an Arsenal fan. With the season Spurs have had, she’s not let me forget it—but I won’t hold it against her!”

About Caremark Dunmow

If you have a condition or anything else which is making it more difficult to remain at home, why not view our list of home care in Great Dunmow?