Family Ties

Published at: ‘Newslink'; Headstart ABI Service, June 2010.

Families are essential. Were it not for the unwavering support of my own family, I would not have coped nearly half so well through the dramas of rehabilitation. Fortunately, we still co-operate- no matter the upsets we sometimes cause each other.

While I was down at Ryde Rehabilitation, we were advised to organise weekly family meetings. These sort of gatherings are very important, as they keep us all informed.  With mum often out for Yoga, my step-father Greg away on work related trips and my brother Simon at the gym, it helps us stay connected and provide the support we need as we then transfer our collated information into the family diary located on the kitchen bench.

Sunday nights are the rare night we are all home together. Typically, we will sit down with our diaries and talk about the week ahead, sometimes planning ahead further if need be. I would encourage you all to do the same, as it has helped us avoid much frustration.

What helps your family stay connected and work together?