Kim, Gary & Josh
Shared Lives - Central Bedfordshire
Initially, the couple decided to foster children. “We knew we had so much love to give, and fostering felt like the right path for us,” they explain. Which was when they welcomed Josh into their home. Their journey through fostering became a source of healing and purpose. The couple fondly recalls how Josh enriched their lives: “It’s incredible how much joy you can find in helping someone else. Those moments of laughter and connection made every challenge worthwhile.”
As their fostering journey continued, and as Josh became an adult, they discovered the concept of Shared Lives and felt an immediate connection to the philosophy behind it. Transitioning into Shared Lives carers was a natural progression, driven by their commitment to providing a loving home and building meaningful relationships.
Today, as Shared Lives carers, they describe their experience as one that is not only rewarding but also enriching for both them and Josh.
Their journey has not been without its challenges. They often find themselves grappling with the expectations of others. They laugh when recalling the well-meaning compliments they receive, such as “Oh, you’re so wonderful,” or “You’re angels.” While they appreciate the sentiment, they also note “We’re not angels; we’re just ordinary people who chose to do something meaningful,” they explain. “We know people mean well.”
They recognise that many don't know how to express their gratitude or understanding of their work. “It’s like when someone dies, and people say, ‘Oh, you’re so brave.’ What are we supposed to do—hide away? Life goes on, and you find ways to cope,” they say. They firmly believe that it’s not about being labelled as heroes but rather about making a difference in someone’s life.
Through Shared Lives and Ategi’s support, they have created a life filled with purpose and connection. “This isn’t just caregiving; it’s about building relationships that last,” they emphasise. The bond they have formed with Josh the has become an integral part of their life. “We’ve shared countless moments of joy, from celebrating birthdays to simply enjoying quiet evenings together. Those memories are priceless,”.
Kim and Gary show us how fostering and Shared Lives arrangements can go beyond mere caregiving; they are about creating meaningful relationships that enrich everyone's lives. By opening their home, they continue to make an impact, providing care that is both compassionate and transformative.
As they look back on their journey, they express gratitude for the opportunity to turn their loss into a legacy of love.
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