Finding Your Voice as a Full-Time Carer Requires Immense Inner Strength

Resilience emerges as the central theme when textile artist Caz Holmes shares her journey as a full-time carer for her husband following his debilitating stroke. She offers profound insights into finding balance between caring for others and maintaining your own identity through creativity and connection.• Caz balances her renowned artistic career with caring for her husband Derek after his stroke in 2021• The stroke left Derek with left-side weakness, limited vision, and spatial awareness challenges• Creativity serves as healing for both carer and patient, providing focus and purpose• Maintaining your identity is crucial when transitioning from life partner to caregiver• Small moments of respite are essential for carers – walks, garden time, coffee with friends• Finding ways to collaborate despite limitations helps preserve dignity for both individuals• Caz identifies her "triangle of needs": challenge, connection to creativity, and connection to others• The UK has approximately 5 million unpaid carers providing essential support• Human connection is being eroded in our increasingly technology-focused society• Speaking up about what you need as a carer is vital for maintaining your wellbeing• Caz's motto "to do different" encourages finding alternative approaches to life's challengesContact Caz through Instagram to see her work and connect with her community of makers @casholmestextilesWant to reach out? Suggest a guest? Drop us a text! Support the show