Edward was diagnosed with dementia in 2013. Crossroads, which helps people with all sorts of disabilities, first began to feature in our lives through their clubs. Edward thoroughly enjoyed the social contact, the activities - and the lunches. The quality of care and the kindness of the staff to both Edward and me was outstanding.

Edward also had a Crossroads carer who took him out on walks and played ping-pong with him in the park in all weathers. As time went on and Edward deteriorated, his carer took him out for drives and they visited garden centres with tea rooms which served delicious cakes!

In the final 6 months while Edward was still at home, a Crossroads carer came to look after him for one night a week so that I could get some unbroken sleep. I had been reluctant to accept this idea. However, a Crossroads organiser managed to persuade me to go on a weekend break in August 2019 and I felt the benefits.

That weekend was part-funded by Crossroads. One of his weekly sessions with his carer was wholly funded by Crossroads. Donations to Crossroads Care Surrey will help people with all sorts of disabilities and their carers, too.

Lucy Huddleston