The enduring bond between a mother and daughter is celebrated in this year’s Carer of the Year.
Personal Stories
A colostomy at the age of 21 was not the end of the world but the beginning of a new one. Now at 95 years of age, Jean Croxton shares some of her inspirational wisdom with granddaughter Kellie Matalone
Brisbane-born model Anja Christoffersen was only 17 when she first walked in Amsterdam Fashion Week. Three years later, she’s also focusing on another kind of modelling—being a role model for young people with chronic bladder and bowel conditions. Anja was born with VACTERL Association, a disorder that affects many body systems. While she’s been incontinent her entire life, she hasn’t let it get in the way of pursing her dreams. Anja speaks to Kasia Kosidlo about her challenges and ambition to help others.
Joe Roberts was born 10 years ago with profound disabilities as the result of a mild virus his mother, Jodie, contracted while pregnant. Her remarkable strength and leadership since his birth have earned her the 2015 Continence Foundation’s Carer of the Year award.
Gabrielle Fakhri has been caring for her son Simon, for 42 years. She gave this touching account of life as Simon’s carer at the launch of the Carers count special project during World Continence Week.
Gerard* was cleaning up about 25 of his mother’s faecal incontinence accidents each year until he spoke with continence nurse Lisa from the National Continence Helpline.