Sara's story: caring, coping and rebuilding

Sara was the primary carer for her husband after he was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer. While she managed the physical side of caring with strength and determination, the emotional strain of knowing she could lose him was incredibly difficult. His health declined very quickly, and unfortunately, Sara's husband passed away.

Throughout this time, Sara's local carers' centre supported her as best they could, encouraging her to talk openly, reach out when she needed help, and still take moments of care for herself. With their encouragement, Sara applied for a Time to Live microgrant to give her the chance to reconnect with something positive and grounding during an overwhelming period.

Sara used the microgrant to attend wreath‑making and pottery classes, activities she loved and had not allowed herself time for while caring. These sessions not only offered her a creative outlet, but also helped reduce feelings of isolation by giving her a space to meet and talk with others.

Find out more about Time to Live here.

Sara said

“I am still very much a 'work in progress', and I am slowly getting back on track and reconnecting with friends. But with the break and the support, I feel I am going in the right direction.”