Sue Chitty is a full-time carer to husband Bill, who has multiple health problems including type 2 diabetes, a stoma and a damaged spine. They have just completed the Expert Patients Programme in Cheriton.
“When someone has a serious health issue it changes everything,” says Sue. “We lost friends and became isolated. But the Expert Patients Programme has been fantastic for us and has made a real difference.
“The fact that those leading the course have long-term conditions themselves is beneficial as they understand your frustrations. They use non-clinical language when explaining things, they listen and give everyone the chance to have their say.
“We have finished the course feeling more relaxed. We are able to recognise potential problems and deal with them before they become unmanageable. We highly recommend the course.”