In late 2013, my father was diagnosed with an aggressive Stage 4 Terminal Brain Cancer. A GBM (Glioblastoma Multiforme).

And just like that, without warning, life for my father and our family changed overnight.

We did our research and spoke to everyone, but no-one could give us clear instructions or tell us what to expect.

We didn’t know where to find the specific support we were going to need for my father, or even what your needs would be towards the end at the same time making sure the rest of the family didn’t fall apart.

Those months of providing caring support, mostly through trial-and-error, were the most difficult I had ever experienced.

It almost broke me.

I had no plan. No guidelines.

I just didn't know what you expect, or who to call or even what questions to ask to get the help we so deparately needed.

I made many mistakes. Some can never be fixed.

My own lived experience (like so many others I've helped) has inspired me to help make a difference in the lives of others in similar circumstances.

Carers Compass is the service I wish I had available to me as I navigated caring for my father, my family and myself.

But I believe I am where I am for a reason. Balance and resilience has made me stronger and unbreakable. You can experience that too.

And if there is only ONE thing you take away today .. it's to know YOU ARE NOT ALONE.

I can't take away the pain of you losing your loved one, but I can sure as hell help make that end of life care journey a little easier for you, your loved one and your family.

And it comes from being better informed about choices that give you back some control.