TESTIMONIALS
''DISC were a constant source of support to me during what has probably been the most challenging 18 months of my very long and varied life.
Coming to terms with, and dealing with, my husband’s dementia was, and remains, my hardest task so far. The complex muddle of paperwork and procedure people already distressed and tired are expected to wade through, and deal with intelligently, are dismaying.
DISC was a huge help through the unhappy time of acknowledging and coming to terms with my husbands condition and with the endless, complicated and exhausting process of trying to access information and support. They are always cheerful, informative, encouraging and accessible and of great societal value - all of this help and support given, literally, freely.''
LM
''How has DISC helped me in my caring journey from when I was first introduced to them? Where do I begin? Sadly, my husband and I did not find them till post lockdown. Since then we have a whole new circle of friends as a result of the different groups and courses. It is such a great opportunity to meet people who are living through similar experiences to us, and it means we are not alone as Dementia takes its hold, and changes lives.
I have learnt so much through the courses I have taken, all of which have helped me understand what is happening to my husband who has a diagnosis of Alzheimers and Vascular Dementia. I have been able to adapt my behaviour, attitude and responses to him because of what I have learnt. But more than that I have had the opportunity to share this with new friends at the beginning of their journey, and signpost them to Disc too.
We have both made many new friendships, with both the Disc team, and users of their services through the courses, Carers Support group, Disc Talks Dementia and Sing and Social. Personally I have had, and still receive much support from the team. They are just a phone call or text away, and are quick to point me in the right direction when needed. For example they were recently able to make a referral to Adult Services to obtain a Needs Assessment and funding for Day Care. I definitely believe that I would not be coping with my husband's changing needs if it were not for their support.''
SM
''I was introduced to DISC in January 2020. Their first course gave me a broader understanding of what dementia was and how it might affect my husband.
Then COVID struck. It was a long stretch to be locked down with a man with very little conversation etc. DISC were still available on the phone for emotional and practical support and for a quick zoom quiz’s.
When COVID eased I did three courses with DISC. They drilled down in more depth than my initial understanding. DISC staff listened to feedback and added another course to deal solely with finances.
I have made friends with other carers who I continue to keep in contact with for mutual support.
Six years after diagnosis, my husband has recently gone into permanent residential care. Such a difficult time for the whole family. But I was well prepared. By attending DISC courses, support groups and their craft club I wasn’t surprised by the feelings and paperwork this change would bring. Although I was sad I was able to cope. I’m not sure it would have been the same without the gentle preparation DISC provided.
DISC provides a safe space for carers to be honest about how they’re feeling without judgement. They are as helpful with factual information and guidance as they are with emotional support. I’ve laughed and cried with them.''
KE
''Without Disc I’m not sure how I would have managed before Covid. I tried to get help at the time from my Doctors and they had nothing for me. A friend told me about DISC and from then on I had excellent advice and support.
I have also done their training courses which has helped me so much in dealing with my husband.
They are a non profit that deserves help to keep running, there is no one that I could phone for help and get instant assistance like the three girls that run it.''
JW
When DISC first started supporting us we’d just had our monthly meetings stopped by another provider of which Emma was our support worker.
Upon seeing our distraught reaction to losing this DISC was born.
The ladies of DISC saw me through what I can only describe as the worst period of my life. They were there when my dad had a most horrendous stay in hospital and helped me get the right care in place for him to return home to mum. Without them I feel he would’ve ended up in a home just in time for Covid. This would have put a tremendous strain on all of us as to not be able to see dad during that time would have caused irreparable suffering.
We managed to keep dad at home until September 2021 where unfortunately he had a couple of falls and I deemed it necessary at that point for dad to go in a home, taking in to account my mums safety as well. DISC helped me choose the right environment for dad and were with me during the calls to the home helping me if I got stuck with what to ask.
He lived for another 3 months in which we were able to make some lovely memories.
I can honestly say that I don’t know where I would have been without DISC. Their knowledge of dementia and the system or more importantly, lack of system around dementia was invaluable. Their patience and understanding is second to none.
Although my journey with dementia has now ended, there are plenty more people, ordinary people like myself who will be lost without them.
DISC will always hold a special place in my heart. Which I thank them from the bottom of.''
SC
''A couple of years ago my husband was diagnosed with Dementia, at first you try and blot it out and hope that it had either been a mistake or that he would improve and get better.
Unfortunately, we were wrong and after speaking to many different people and organisations it was real.
We were put in contact with Disc Dementia Support, May, Emma and Louise. They listened and informed me of the Carers Course they do and invited me to go along. I did, and l have just completed level 3.
This has been so informative and helpful, meeting other Carers that are going through the same thing. Without the help, support and information that the Disc team have given me l would struggle with the day to day life living with someone with Dementia.
So, for their help l would like to Thank them all.''
MK
