MedicAlert – Caring for the Carer
For a number of years, Alan Ingram 65 years old from Bexley in Kent has lovingly cared each day for his wife Ann.
Ann who is 70 years old has Parkinson's, Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB) and more recently has been diagnosed with breast cancer. Although Ann is responding well to her breast cancer treatment, she takes a long list of medication to control her conditions.
As the main carer for Ann, Alan wears a MedicAlert bracelet on his wrist every single minute of the day. He relies on the service so that should something happen to him; the appropriate care will be given to Ann.
Alan says:-
‘As a member of the Lions Clubs, I have always known about the MedicAlert service and how it helps those with hidden medical conditions.
But now, I take great peace of mind in the knowledge that should something happen to me, my MedicAlert Emblem will notify the emergency services that I care for Ann.
‘It is clearly stated on my MedicAlert file that if something happens to me, Bexley Social Services are to be contacted and their support will then kick in to help Ann.'
‘You hope that you never need it, but I know its there just in case!'
MedicAlert provides medical and personal information which is accessible 24/7 to the emergency services. On spotting the MedicAlert Emblem, the emergency services simply telephone the emergency line and quote the ID number engraved on the disc.
Any relevant medical and personal details are passed to the emergency services to ensure that the right treatment is given. As well as storing medical details, other information can be stored such as next of kin, advance decision wishes, organ donation pledges and care plans.
Chris Lunn from MedicAlert says:-
‘We know that many carers lead busy lives, juggling with caring responsibilities, employment and other parts of daily life.'
‘Many people like Alan, rely on the MedicAlert identicication service so that should something happen to them, the person that they care for will be looked after.'
To help raise awareness about how the service supports carers, MedicAlert will be presenting at the 5th International Carers Conference in Leeds on Friday 9th July.
Download a picture of Ann and Alan Ingram here.
More pictures avaialble on request-please phone Roisin on 020 7923 6478
