Colin & Carol

Finding support together

Colin and Carol have been together since they were teenagers. They met at 14, married at 21 and have now shared more than 57 years of marriage, raising two sons and building a life together.

In recent years, life has changed significantly following Carol's dementia diagnosis. As her condition has progressed, Colin has taken on the role of full-time carer. He manages many of the household responsibilities, supports Carol with daily decisions and helps her navigate a world that can often feel confusing and uncertain.

Despite the challenges, Colin is determined to keep life active and enjoyable for them both. They regularly visit garden centres, cafés and local attractions, believing that staying connected to the outside world is important for Carol's wellbeing.

Link Thursdays

Caring can be isolating, and Colin found that meeting others in similar situations made a real difference.

"Coming to Link has been very helpful for me. There are people you can talk to - people who understand."

Since discovering Link Thursdays, Colin and Carol have become regular attendees, and the welcoming environment offers something valuable to them both. Colin benefits from meeting other carers and sharing experiences, while Carol particularly enjoys the chair yoga sessions, which help her stay active, engaged and connected, as well as the chance to socialise and meet new people.

"There are always carers here. There's always someone at your table to talk to."

Unlike some other groups they had attended, Colin noticed that people actively included Carol in conversations, helping her feel part of the group rather than simply accompanying her husband.

A place to belong

For Colin, Link offers more than social interaction. It provides reassurance, understanding and a supportive community during a difficult period in their lives.

"This place helps. You can talk to people. You can step away and have a break. It's like a new family."

For Carol, the benefit is simpler but equally important.

"It's nice to see new faces."

Today, Link Thursdays gives Colin and Carol something to look forward to each week. It provides friendship, understanding and a sense of belonging, helping them continue to live well together despite the challenges of dementia.

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