Selina Smith feels she was born to be a carer. She has devoted most of her life to looking after family, including her late husband Randall (Ran) who had muscular dystrophy, and three sons who have a range of health conditions.
Selina is one of over 3 million informal carers across Australia who provide unpaid care and support to family members or friends who have a disability, illness or are frail aged.
"In the early years of our marriage, Ran worked in insurance and could look after himself, but his condition got progressively worse over time," Selina said.
"When he was 42, Ran was really sick in hospital. We nearly lost him and they were very close to amputating his legs.
"We were living in an old Queenslander in Nanango and when it was time to bring him home, he couldn't make it up the steps to the front door.
"We had to leave him in the car for the night and I pulled out a little tent beside him in my front yard to make sure he was okay. I couldn't let him out of my sight because I was so worried and loved him so much, but we coped and finally got him inside.
"Our name was on the emergency list with the Housing Commission for a more suitable home and finally they found us a place in Toogoolawah."
Luckily for the Smith family, their new residence was just down the road from Carinity's disability support service, Our House, although they would not get acquainted until another unfortunate event four years later.
In the 2011 floods, a wave of water surged through the Smith home, forcing them to evacuate. While most locals stayed at the showgrounds, Our House opened their doors to some vulnerable people who were seeking temporary accommodation.
"Maggie (Our House Client Services Coordinator) was so welcoming and helpful during our stay and beyond," Selinda said.
She offered me a job cleaning here one day a week, which became my only break from caring responsibilities at home and made me feel really special.
"Two of my boys started receiving support from Our House, which was amazing, but unfortunately Ran refused to allow me to organise any home support for him.
"He was old fashioned and felt that I should be the only one to help him, but it was exhausting. His muscles continued to deteriorate so it got to a point where I was doing absolutely everything for him.
"As well as cooking his meals, I would cut up all his food I had always dressed the wounds on his feet, but now I started helping him in the toilet and showering him. He couldn't shave or brush his own hair.
"I had to learn how to use a hoist to get him out of bed into his wheelchair each morning. He wanted everything done a certain way and never wanted me to leave his side.
"People would tell me I looked tired and urge me to take a holiday, but I felt there was no way I could take any time for myself.
"Looking back, I wish I'd insisted that we got outside help and that I'd taken time to look after myself, even if it had just been going for a walk every now and then."
With carer fatigue a significant issue for those who dedicate their lives to looking after loved ones, it's important to know that there is support available.
Carer Gateway is a national service funded by the Australian Government that provides
free local support including counselling, coaching, domestic assistance, education, equipment and respite care. They can be contacted on 1800 422 737.
Selina sadly lost Randall to a stroke in February last year and is working through her grief, continuing to care for two of her sons who live with her, while making plans for the future.
"I was born for this life of caring, even though it was so much harder than I ever expected," Selina said.
"I was married for over 40 years and had three lovely lads who are my pride and joy. They've encouraged me to take up a hobby and I want to, but in the back of my mind I still think Ran needs me.
"I've always wanted to get a van and travel around Australia. If I ever have the chance to fulfill this dream, I have peace of mind that Our House will be there for my boys."
