Robert's story: reconnection with Airbnb
Robert cares for his wife as she manages a recent cancer diagnosis. The past year has been incredibly challenging for them both, filled with hospital appointments, treatment, uncertainty, and the emotional impact that serious illness can bring. While they have faced these challenges together, the focus on treatment and day-to-day responsibilities often left little time to focus on themselves as a couple.
"It's been a really tough time for both of us over the past few months. Although we've been getting through it together, you can sometimes lose sight of your relationship as other responsibilities take over and life changes so much."
Recognising the pressures Robert was facing as a carer, his local carers' centre encouraged him to take a short break and offered support through the Time to Live voucher scheme. Knowing that organising a break can feel overwhelming when caring responsibilities are already demanding; the staff helped Robert plan everything, ensuring the process was as stress-free as possible.
Using the voucher, Robert and his wife were able to enjoy a two-night stay in a peaceful Airbnb by the sea. Surrounded by nature and away from the routines and worries of everyday life, they were able to relax, spend quality time together, and enjoy a change of scenery at a time when they needed it most.
Shortly before their break, Robert and his wife received welcome news that her treatment was having a positive effect.
The break provided much more than a change of location. It gave Robert and his wife the opportunity to step away from the stresses and anxieties they had been carrying for so long, allowing them to relax and reflect on their journey.
Find out more about Time to Live here.
Robert said
"Having this time away together was exactly what we needed. We'd like to thank the carers' centre for supporting us...everything was taken care of, so all we had to do was turn up and switch off from worrying for a while."