Joanna's story: discovering the joy of opera
Joanna is an unpaid carer who, like many, finds it challenging to carve out time for herself. She has had a good relationship with her local carers' centre for years and always looks forward to her conversations with them. So much so, she says it "feels like catching up with old friends."
Appreciating the toll Joanna's caring responsibilities was taking on her alongside a full time job, together they explored different ways of taking time out that worked best for Joanna. Through Respitality, the carers' centre were delighted to match Joanna with tickets donated by the Scottish Opera.
An evening at the opera helped Joanna find the balance she needed. This helped her feel like a functioning member of society again, even for a short while.
Joanna said:
"I felt like a VIP! I was ushered to a queue for press...I was offered a free programme. and even a free refreshment at the interval. The seats were incredible and it was so lovely to have a guilt-free trip to the theatre. Thanks so much to Respitality and [the carers' centre] for offering a break that was so perfect for a very weary unpaid carer who misses her regular visits to the theatre!"
Find out more about Respitality here.
Joanna said
"It was glorious! It was lovely to feel like a grown up, proper member of society for a short period of time. I did feel like I was a competition winner in the fantastic seats. I went home feeling so much better!"