After 27 years of adventure together, Julianne and Robert Wignall are now navigating their most challenging journey yet, adapting to a new way of life as Julianne steps into the role of full-time carer.

Julianne is one of the 87,000 Tasmanian informal carers of a loved one with disability, mental ill health, chronic or life limiting condition or alcohol or other drug dependence or who is frail aged.

It was during a trip across Australia that their world changed in an instant.

Robert suddenly fell critically ill and was rushed by the Royal Flying Doctor Service to Adelaide Hospital, where he spent time in intensive care fighting for his life.

Since returning home to their seven-acre property in Dulcot, Julianne has taken on most of the responsibilities of running their home and garden while caring for Robert.

“When Robert was in hospital, it was incredibly hard seeing him so unwell,” Julianne said.

“At the same time, I had to keep everything else ticking along back home.”

“He’s lived such an active life, always capable and independent, so this new reality has been a huge adjustment for both of us.”

As the physical and emotional challenges mounted, Julianne turned to the Carer Gateway for support.

Care2Serve, the service arm of Carers Tasmania, is the Tasmanian provider of Carer Gateway, an Australian Government initiative developed to provide carers with advice, information and a range of other free support and services.

Through Carer Gateway, carers can access vital services, including help with booking residential respite, connection with other carers, advice and information on planning for the future, tailored support packages, access to free counselling, personalised sessions with a specialised carer coach and 24/7 emergency support if something happens that prevents them from caring.

“I’m so grateful for Carer Gateway,” she said.

“The emotional toll has been enormous, but thanks to their counsellors, I’ve found strength I didn’t know I had and I’ll never forget the difference they’ve made.”

Julianne now attends a Care2Serve Carer Support Group and receives practical help at home.

“We’re determined to stay here but managing a big property on my own can be tough,” she said.

“Having someone help out has been such a relief.”

“The support has been outstanding and it’s clear the people involved genuinely care, which means the world to us.”

Julianne herself has never struggled to give back to those in need.

After seeing how much comfort Trauma Teddies brought her grandson during long hospital stays, she began knitting them herself.

“Each time he was admitted, he was given a teddy and it always brightened his day,” she said.

“Eight years later, I have finished my 1000th teddy.”

“I used to hand them out myself but now the Care2Serve helps me get them into the arms of people who need them most.”

Julianne said this experience had taught her and Robert a lot about resilience and the importance of accepting help.

“Don’t be too proud to reach out, no one is invincible” she said.

“Carer Gateway has made us feel valued and respected and I encourage anyone in need to ask for support.”

“Just remember that there are people out there who really want to help.”

If you are in a similar situation and need help with your caring role, contact us by emailing intake@care2serve.com.au or by calling 1800 422 737 (and press 1 at the menu).