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Emergency relief, life-changing impact
When Rocky Bay customer Peter’s much anticipated respite stay in...
Elina and Hilda
For many parents, particularly those caring for children living with a disability, finding time for themselves can be difficult.
For Hilda, mother of Rocky Bay customer Elina, the option of respite care at the Bush Retreat has been a game-changer, not only for her daughter but also in allowing Hilda to focus on herself.
Elina has been a regular weekend visitor at the Bush Retreat for the past year and has made new friends, learned life skills, grown in confidence and embraced the fun activities offered.
From visiting the Swan Valley Cuddly Animal Farm to singing at karaoke parties, there is always something fun, new and exciting for Elina.
While Elina enjoys her stays at The Bush Retreat, the respite has also had a significant impact on Hilda’s well being.
The story continues...
Hilda uses Elina’s time at the Bush Retreat to take a break for herself, enjoying peaceful moments and focusing on spending quality time with Elina’s sisters.
“I’m able to go somewhere, not rush and just enjoy the moments,” Hilda says.
“I use that time to think more clearly and do things for myself, like catching up with a friend,” Hilda says.
Hilda says the experience with Rocky Bay and the Bush Retreat has been positive with Elina initially trialling day visits, allowing the family to take a flexible approach before Elina’s first weekend stay.
“It’s all about Elina and she’s happy,” Hilda explains.
Hilda says Elina has made friends at the Bush Retreat which is ‘really lovely.’
“All the staff at the Bush Retreat seem friendly and Elina loves it there, so I believe she is given the care, love and respect she deserves,” Hilda says.
How we helped
Overall, Elina accessing respite at Rocky Bay has had a positive impact on Hilda and her family.
Sending a child to stay with people who are essentially strangers can be a daunting decision for any parent, and Hilda acknowledges the difficulty of that initial choice.
“While it’s hard to send your child away with strangers, we can see that Elina is happy so we are happy,” Hilda says.
“It allows us to do things we normally wouldn’t be able to when she’s with us.”
For parents who may be considering respite care for their child, Hilda says to lean on your support system.
“I wasn’t sure at first, and I had guilt about sending my daughter away, but I appreciated everyone who helped us be more open to it,” Hilda says.
“Everyone is different, but you can’t go wrong with giving respite a try,” Hilda says.
Hilda explains that both the parent and the child can benefit from time apart.
“Your child might need some time away from you too, and they might get to do things they wouldn’t normally do at home,” Hilda concluded.
The Bush Retreat is in Beeliar and is one of four Rocky Bay short-term accommodation options.
To discover more about Rocky Bay’s short-term accommodation, head here: https://www.rockybay.org.au/services/accommodation/guest-houses/
A few words
Your child might need some time away from you too, and they might get to do things they wouldn’t normally do at home
- Hilda, Elina's Mum
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