Yvonne's story

I have been caring for my son for nine years. He is autistic and has a micro duplication of chromosome 16p11.2.  

I suffer with anxiety, constantly worrying about my son, from sleep deprivation and guilt. I joined Carers in Bedfordshire four years ago. They advised me that I needed to take care of myself as I am no good to my son ill.  

My first steps were to attend the carers groups and to have counselling. You realise there are others out there who are going through the same things as you. I now have a stronger relationship with my son, and the confidence to go out with him because I plan our journeys. I also find I don’t dwell on the past anymore. I have found my identity through baking and writing blogs.