Mark's Story

Chronic fatigue syndrome is an invisible illness. My wife Claire looks perfectly healthy to most people, and that makes the caring role harder to explain. Friends would say, "She seems fine!" not understanding that Claire had spent three days resting just to manage that one social event.

My role as a carer crept up gradually. First it was doing more housework. Then taking over the school run. Then managing all the cooking, shopping, appointments, and admin. One day I realised I was running the entire household while working part-time, and I was exhausted.

Carers in Luton helped me see that what I was doing counted as caring. I was entitled to support, rest, and recognition. The counselling service they offered gave me a safe place to process the frustration and grief that comes with watching someone you love lose their independence.