written by Sue Faulkner

Giving something new a try and having some fun.  This was the idea behind this month’s activity.  A small group from the Port Macquarie Parkinson’s Carer Support Group took themselves out of their comfort zone and look what we produced…amazing.

Life is full of ups and downs for us as carers. So, throwing us in the deep-end is nothing new. Thanks goes to Margaret Healey our Carer Co-ordinator for organising a fun afternoon at the Lake Cathie Pottery studio.

Many of us have never had a chance to use a pottery wheel and play with clay before.  The expert teacher, Heather encouraged us to get in and try something new, to listen to her instructions on technique and to focus on the clay and the wheel and to get our hands working with the clay to make our masterpieces.

Probably the biggest advantage of being involved and participating in our Carer’s Support Group is the opportunity to be with other carers, to talk about our experiences and to realise that we are not alone.

In participating in activities and discussions, we all gain comfort, form friendships, and gain moral support through non-judgemental and confidential interactions with each other.  A variety of topics are generally discussed which leads to finding out about coping mechanisms and practical tips and ways to live day-to-day.