At our recent Mental Health Carer Retreat, one of our carers penned this letter to us and we were so moved, we asked her if we could share it on our website. She has very kindly given us permission, so we have shared it with you below.
“To whom it may concern,
On our road to recovery from unimaginable trauma and tragedy, we came across, or rather had the privilege of being introduced to Arafmi.
My three beautiful children had suffered at the hands of a toxic tyrant who almost got away with murder – in some ways he did actually as we lost the will to live. I reached out in frantic desperation and sent out a multitude of emails to various organisations, crying for help. I did the best I could but my children required specialised support.
Arafmi held my hand on this journey to help me recover and are still doing so. Carers and their loved ones, at times of crisis, rely heavily on organisations like Arafmi. The support workers provide a safe, loving environment allowing carers to be human again.
The gravity of my stress levels hit me hardest during, ironically, a meditation session organised by Arafmi on our retreat. What a privilege it was to be supported when I was falling apart and reluctantly allowing my suppressed emotions to resurface. We are taught to develop habits of self-care so easily forgotten when our first instinct is to care for our loved ones.
All 3 of my children were diagnosed with various mental health issues and personality disorders but this was only the tip of the iceberg. I worked long and hard to help them, encourage them and most of all, love them unconditionally on their journey towards healing and self-reliance. In the process I took pride in – neglecting myself. It was and is an honour to be able to put their needs and wants first. Today they live independently, after many years of fierce battle and struggles. Every tear, blood and sweat was worth its weight in gold as I see how far they have come.
But who cares for the carer? When all is said and done, doctors, hospitals, medications, sleepless nights, panic attacks, broken relationships, heartache and more?
Arafmi reminds us: You are not alone.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
I sincerely hope and pray Arafmi can continue to serve the community of carers in their selfless, dedicated way as they always have.
I fully support their services and appreciate their efforts. Thank you is not enough, but Thank you anyway.
Imrana, proud mother of 3 gifted and able, young adults“
From all of us here at Arafmi, we’d like to thank Imrana for sharing her story with us. If this resonates with you, and you would also like to share your story, we invite you to submit your details online and one of our friendly staff will be in contact with you.
24 Hour Helpline
If you have any questions about this article or need someone to talk to, you can call Arafmi any time of the day on 07 3254 1881. It’s comforting to know that when you need to talk – someone who understands will be there – at any hour.
