A Family's First Holiday - Mary's story

Mary is a devoted mother who provides care for her 16-year-old daughter, who has Down Syndrome and requires significant emotional, personal, and practical support - including assistance with daily tasks such as toileting. 

In addition to her caring responsibilities, Mary also works full-time and is raising two other children. Life at home is understandably hectic, and the constant demands placed on her have been a source of mounting stress. Financial pressures have only added to the strain on Mary and her family. 

The family had never experienced a holiday together - something that could offer not just rest, but also meaningful bonding time. Recognising the emotional toll this was taking, the family’s support worker identified that a short break could make a real difference, a chance for Mary to rest and recharge, and an opportunity for the whole family to create joyful memories and enjoy time together. 

In response, the support worker reached out to the Respitality Coordinator, who recommended a short family break at Duchally. To help ease the financial burden, an application was also submitted to the Time to Live fund to support the family with travel and food expenses. 

Feedback received a few days after their break started: "Hi, just to say thank you so much for making this holiday happen. We arrived safely to this beautiful home and everyone is having the best time ever. The service is amazing and staffs very responsive when we need help. The kids are exploring different places, had swimming yesterday, plays football, *Jane played chess, enjoys food at the cafe and still expecting much more in the coming days. God bless you a million times."

To protect anonymity, the name of the carer has been changed.