Sarah, supported by Mingary Care

Sarah’s Story: Easing the Overwhelm of End-of-Life Care

Caring for a loved one at the end of life can be very taxing on many levels. It is emotionally and physically demanding and requires you to give of your time. Sarah discovered this when she took on the role of caring for a close friend who had been given a cancer diagnosis. With next to no support network, Jason was very alone. Sarah wanted to make sure he was cared for.

“Jason’s health declined rapidly, and he was very weak,” said Sarah. “I was concerned that he wasn’t eating as he was unable to cook for himself. He had very limited financial resources and his mental health wasn’t good. As the primary carer I was beginning to feel overwhelmed.”

“We were truly lost and had no idea where to go for help. Finding Mingary Care was an absolute game changer. They asked all the right questions, and their help was so practical, without us having to jump through all the complicated hoops that other palliative care options seem to present,” said Sarah.

Initial support to Jason came in the form of practical but essential items such as food vouchers and a shower chair for home. Sarah says that having people who understand the system and were able to manage the admin was invaluable.

“When Sue told me that she had secured a place at Sundale, I was overwhelmed with relief. I seriously have no idea what I would have done without Mingary Care. It just meant so much to me and Jason to know that he was going to be safe and cared for.”

Mingary Care also provided financial support to cover the cost of legal work to ensure Jason’s Will was in order and continues to support Sarah as she navigates the paperwork since Jason’s passing.

Jason and Sarah have become a special part of the Mingary community and Jason has given back by donating his possessions to the Mingary Care Op Shops.