Carer of the Year
One day at a time for love of Chris
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| CARING FAMILY: Chris with parents Claire and Neil and sister Chantelle. Echo picture by John Luthwaite. Order no: rad170cd |
CHRIS McBeth's life was changed forever as a result of the road accident which left the teenager severely disabled. But the accident also changed the lives of his entire family.
Chris's parents Claire and Neil have now been nominated for the Daily Echo Carer of the Year award, backed by Southampton Lions.
The couple, who also have a daughter Chantelle, aged 15, look after Chris, 17, at their specially adapted home in Mayfield Road, Swaythling, Southampton.
Neil's mother Joan nominated the couple for the award citing their unstinting care and dedication towards their son.
Chris, a former pupil at St George's Catholic School, was hit by a car when he crossed Lordshill Way in May 2003.
He suffered brain damage and was left confined to a wheelchair and unable to speak. However, Claire said he had made progress since the accident and it was a matter of taking "one day at a time."
Communication
"He is learning to communicate by winking. He also laughs a lot. Rosewood School has been absolutely fantastic. They do not just support Chris, they support the whole family."
Claire said the family had coped with Chris's accident and resulting disabilities thanks to a close network of family and friends.
"We have always been honest with each other about how we are feeling and have had a lot of support.
"It's a matter of taking one day at a time. Chris is an absolute joy. But it is not always easy. You have to cope with losing the child you knew and getting to know a new young person."
Claire, 37, who used to work as a learning support assistant and hopes to help other carers, and Neil, 38, who works at Southampton Airport, have carers come into their home to help look after Chris at night.
The Daily Echo is organising the competition in conjunction with the Southampton Lions club whose members every year raise thousands of pounds to support local good causes. The Lions are holding their dinner dance on March 1 and would like to hear from businesses which can help out with raffle and auction prizes
If you can offer support call 0845 833 5835.
12:20pm Wednesday 5th December 2007
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NOMINATIONS are still open for the junor and adult section of the Daily Echo Carer of the Year.
We would like to hear from you if you would like to nominate a full-time carer or a friend, neighbour or relative who helps out with everyday chores.
Nominations are also open for those who work in the caring professions and make a real difference.
Write to Clare Kennedy, Newspaper House, Test Lane, Redbridge, Southampton SO16 9JX, e-mail clare.kennedy@dailyecho.co.uk or call 023 8042 4500 |
