“Praxis Care for me, and I’m not just saying this, has been life changing. It’s been life saving, because I didn’t realise how much damage I was doing to my mental health.”
The Challenges of Caring for a Child with Complex Needs
Declan’s journey as a father of a child with autism and complex care needs has been filled with trials and tribulations. His 15-year-old son, Alex, has a range of needs that make everyday life a delicate balancing act. Non-verbal and often unable to communicate his physical or emotional needs, Alex’s care requires constant vigilance. Declan and his wife, Jo-Anne, found themselves in a constant state of worry, unsure when Alex might be in pain, hungry, or anxious. “The biggest challenge for us has been his inability to communicate. When Alex is in pain or upset, he can’t tell us what’s wrong, and that uncertainty creates so much stress,” Declan says.
Life with Alex has meant adapting to an unpredictable world. One day, Alex might be calm and content; the next, he could be overwhelmed by something as simple as a change in routine or a sound that seems insignificant to others. The complexities of his needs often left Declan and his wife feeling isolated, unable to access the support they desperately needed. The constant worry and lack of time for themselves put a strain on their mental health. “I’d be on edge constantly, overthinking every situation, second-guessing myself, and wondering if I was doing enough for Alex. It was emotionally draining,” Declan explains.
A New Lease on Life for the Family
It was then that Declan and Jo-Anne decided to give respite care a try. Their first experience was a trial visit for just two hours. They were nervous, unsure how Alex would respond, but when they returned, they were met with a pleasant surprise. “When we first came back to pick him up, we were shocked. He was in good form, and it felt like he was comfortable and at ease. It gave us a huge sense of relief,” Declan says. Over time, they began to trust the staff at Praxis Care, and saw how their support enabled Alex to flourish in a structured and understanding environment.
“He started skipping into the building like it was his favourite place in the world! I’d never seen him so excited to be somewhere outside of home. He genuinely looked forward to his time there,” Declan recalls. “Our family calls the respite service Alex’s ‘happy house’”.
A Life-Changing Decision
With regular visits for Alex to respite care now in place, Declan and Jo-Anne now find themselves with much-needed time to relax and recharge. “We never realised how much damage was being done to our mental health until we started using respite care,” Declan reflects. “It’s given us a chance to breathe, to take care of ourselves, and to reconnect as a couple. We never thought we could take a proper break from caregiving, but now we can.”
“Praxis Care for me, and I’m not just saying this, has been life changing. It’s been life saving, because I didn’t realise how much damage I was doing to my mental health.”
Declan’s experience underscores the immense value of respite care for parents of children with complex needs. “It’s been a game-changer for us. The fact that Alex feels as comfortable there as he does at home is a huge testament to the compassionate care provided by Praxis Care,” he says.
Advice for Other Parents
“Don’t hesitate to ask for help,” Declan advises. “I know it can be hard to admit that you can’t do it all, but reaching out for support is crucial. It’s not a sign of failure—it’s a sign of strength. Taking care of your own well-being is just as important as taking care of your child. And when you find a service that works, don’t be afraid to trust them. It’s been life-changing for us, and I think it could be for others too.”