Description
Juggling balls while riding a unicycle: the madness of being a carer was inspired by ‘The shaky reality‘ blog which is a carers viewpoint of life after a Parkinson’s diagnosis. The blog is weekly posts which look into the role of a carer and how it affects all aspects of life.
It easily transformed into a book covering the extra duties the carer has to integrate into their usual dally routine. The extra juggling that is required to keep everything running smoothly. It also looks at how other people can cause issues by not understanding the situation so you can find yourself juggling their needs too. It also covers how the system doesn’t always play nice and the hoops you need to jump all while grinning and gritting your teeth.
Juggling is the debut book in what looks like being a series named ‘Just Me’.
Back page blurb –
Being a carer won’t be a good addition to your CV. It will be considered a career break. The role doesn’t contribute to your own retirement fund and it certainly won’t help with a mortgage application. Yep it sucks!
But you are loved. That is priceless!
This book highlights the ripple effect that taking on the role of carer can have on all aspects of your life. The extra pressure it can put on daily activities, even on the relationship between the carer and the person who needs the care. It’s a balancing act between trying to be superhuman and managing it all, keeping everybody happy all while hanging on to your sanity.
There is no ‘one fix fits all’ and the care system that people find themselves in is not ideal and is creaking under the pressure of the amount of people needing its resources. This books shines a light on situations you probably would not consider unless you were in that position – hard choices that need to be made, the loneliness and isolation. The need for the right kind of support and a healthy dose of humour to see you through.
So why do many people find themselves in this role that gives them little recognition, yet that step up daily, without complaint? Do you have to be slightly mad to fill that role. If push came to shove … could you? Would you?
WARNING – contains mild swearing and dark humour. if that is likely to offend this book is not for you.
note from the author – Juggling was not where I imagined starting my writing journey, in fact it looks like the book I actually thought I would write first will be the third in the series. The one that had me asking ‘is it just me’ constantly. It has been started but has been shelved while I worked on this and the second in the series which was actually written first. I never do things in order. Another quirk that is ‘Just Me’.
I hope that you enjoy this book and my wish is that it will help just one person feel less isolated in what is a very lonely and difficult job. If I can do that, then I have achieved something magical. All while juggling the madness that is my life.
Ro Tryhorn –
This book offers a truly eye-opening glimpse into the life of a carer, a role I knew nothing about before reading. It is clear from the start that the author has captured the reality of caregiving with honesty and heart. The writing effortlessly balances the humour, the everyday challenges, and the moments of frustration that cares experience, making it a deeply relatable and genuine read.
What stood out most to me was how well the book portrays the full spectrum of this demanding job – never shying away from the tough parts but also highlighting the small, often overlooked joys. I found myself completely engrossed from beginning to end, learning to appreciate the dedication and resilience required in this profession. The authors voice is warm and insightful, making the story both accessible and compelling.
Overall, I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in understanding the reality behind caregiving. Its thought provoking, engaging and deserves a spot on your reading list. You will come away with a newfound respect for carers and a deeper awareness of the challenges they face every day
Lynn isham –
Wow what a read I just couldn’t put it down from start to finish! , Would really recommend this book.
The way she portrayed the life of a carer, with truth and humour, the wackiness and sayings made me laugh and cry.
It’s really an insight of what all you carers have to deal with in a day. Hats off to you all. You have me a new found respect for you all.
Angie W (verified owner) –
A truly insightful book into the world of a carer, carefully written to give advice and support through her own experiences Elaine captures the frustrating parts of the situation she is in with humour and sarcasm. The saying “you either laugh or cry”… I love Elaine’s sense of humour, I actually found myself laughing out loud at some comments!
It’s a deeply personal book about her experience yet offering support and encouragement to fellow carers, advice to people who have friends/family who are carers all mixed up with a great sense of humour. Elaine has a great way of coping with the difficult situation she is in, but positive mental attitude isn’t always easy. There are things to consider whether you are a carer or know someone who is a carer. It doesn’t claim to have all the answers but who does?
Whether you take away a snippet of information that might help your situation or simply the reassurance to take some time out to look after yourself, this book gives you things to consider!
I would definitely recommend reading this book!