“I really needed a break from my grandchildren, now I feel like I can face each day again.”

Maria and Frank have been caring for their 4 grandchildren since their daughter died 3 years ago. Maria describes her life as “very difficult” and says that she worries about the future of the children. Maria and Frank have already celebrated their 80th birthday and their grandchildren are aged between 9 and 3. Prior to the establishment of the Mirabel House program, Maria and Frank had never had a break from their grandchildren.

On the first two occasions that the family received respite, Maria came to the house with the 4 children and rested while the children were cared for and entertained by Mirabel staff. Maria described the house as “paradise” and said that she had never felt so “happy and relaxed”. Once Maria and the children felt comfortable with the Mirabel House and the respite program, Maria and Frank spent time together at home while the children had an “adventure” at the Mirabel House. Maria, Frank and the children benefited from regular respite until the task of parenting small children became too difficult for Maria and Frank and it was agreed that 2 of the children would live with their aunt and uncle. Since their separation, the 4 children display a great sense of loss for one other. Mirabel House has become a safe and happy environment where the children spend time together while both sets of carers have a much-needed break.