Meet Lucy, 11
We had the pleasure of speaking to the fabulous young author Lucy, a 11 year old young carer from South-East Wales. She helps her family care for her younger brother and has joined Honeypot on multiple Respite Breaks in Pen-y-Bryn. She inspired many of the young carers on the break to pursue their goals, sharing how she had made the book and the whole process. It was flying off the book shelf the entire break!
Upon her diagnosis aged 9 her parents found there were no books about Tourette Syndrome for Lucy’s age, so she took it upon herself to write and create her own. She created a lively diary filled with her personal drawings and images to help raise awareness for others who may be experiencing the same symptoms. The book was released on Amazon last year and the orders have been piling in. She has recieved numerous amazing reviews from young and old readers, even being invited to talk at prestigous events such as the Senedd, with ministers including Jeremy Miles, The Minister for Education.
“Lucy’s words had me filling up at times, her and her family are so strong. This book really highlights some of the difficulties they have experienced through Lucy experiencing Tourette’s syndrome and the ignorance of people around them.”
She has now done many book signings and met with other children who have Tourette Syndrome, enabling them to talk about their shared experiences.
“I hope that my book has helped others gain a little understanding into what it is like living with Tourettes syndrome! I plan to go to school on World Book Day dressed as myself, after all im a character in a book! ”
On Respite at Honeypot she loved swimming, a trip to the stream, exploring and even found out that she loves hummus as part of our new healthy eating programme.
Lucy’s kindness and caring nature was noted by all the other children on repsite in Pen-y-Bryn! She would like to be a doctor when she’s older and loves art, as you can see through her own illustrations in her book.
“I love coming to Honeypot as it allows me to relax, get out of my room and not worry about my little brother, I’ve actually got my best friend here.”
You’re an inspiration Lucy, we look forward to seeing you back at Pen-y-Bryn soon!
If you would like to support more young carers like Lucy why not consider setting up a monthly donation, you could help build brighter futures today!