A Mother's Sacrifice: Giving Up Work to Care for Her Son

Stephanie's son Gabe needs a lot of help every day.

Stephanie, 46, has been taking care of Gabe since he was born. She had to stop working and is very tired. Many people in the UK take care of family members without getting paid.

When Gabe was little, his parents knew he needed more help. He has cerebral palsy, autism, and a learning disability.

Stephanie takes care of Gabe for about 70 hours a week. She had to stop working because it was too hard.

Stephanie said, 'I went part-time after Gabe was born, but it was too hard. I had to stop working completely. This was a big sacrifice for our family.'

Stephanie is worried about money because she is not working. She knows her retirement will be different from her friends.

Stephanie is worried about what will happen to Gabe when she can't take care of him.

Stephanie is worried about the future and what will happen to Gabe when she and her husband can't take care of him.

Gabe is 10 and goes to school sometimes. This gives Stephanie a little time to work. But she is still very tired.

Stephanie said, 'I'm very tired because I'm taking care of Gabe and doing everything for him.'

Stephanie doesn't have time for herself. Her other kids need her, and she and her husband don't have time together.

Stephanie and her husband have to take Gabe to appointments and therapy. They are very busy and tired.

Stephanie said, 'It's very hard. I haven't found a balance. I get burned out.'

Stephanie's family has less money because she's not working. Gabe's medical needs also cost a lot of money.

Stephanie gets some money from the government to help take care of Gabe. But it's not enough.

Many people in the UK are taking care of family members without getting paid.

Stephanie said, 'We're struggling with money and emotions. I'm worried about our future.'

Georgia Colman, from a company that helps people with disabilities, said, 'Many families have to take care of someone without realizing it.'

The cost of taking care of someone is often hidden, but it's very real.

Stephanie said, 'We need to value the people who take care of others. It's a big job, but it's also a privilege.'

Stephanie loves taking care of Gabe and will do anything to help him. He's a happy boy who brings joy to their lives.

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