Kyan Coleman and mum Claudine Davies.

Haringey carers recognised for ‘astonishing’ work at annual awards bash

by Sandy Rashty Sunday, July 8, 2012
1:00 PM

A 10-year-old girl who suffers from sickle cell anaemia and looks after her mother with the same disease is one of more than 30 voluntary carers recognised in Haringey’s annual Carer Of The Year Awards.

Elizabeth Sillery with her Carer Of The Year Award 2012.

Kyan Coleman was awarded Young Carer Of The Year for her overwhelming dedication to her mother’s care.

Her mother Claudine Davies said: “She does everything for me when I’m unwell. She washes me in the shower, dresses me and feeds me.

“This is her normality, she’s amazing. I’m so proud of her.”

The awards, held by Haringey Council, revealed dozens of touching tales of love and struggle.

Elizabeth Sillery, 88, was named Adult Carer Of The Year as the sole carer of her 53-year-old son John, who has a learning disability and is registered blind.

She has looked after him alone since her husband died 11 years ago, and is so devoted to him she has pledged to care for him “until she drops” said her nominator.

After collecting the award Elizabeth said: “John needs help with everything. I get his clothes ready and help him get dressed.

“I cut up his food and help him to feed himself. He’s my son. It’s my job to look after him.”

Leah Westrandel, 12, was runner-up in the Young Carer category for caring for her mother who suffers with epilepsy.

Margaret Murphie was runner-up for Adult Carer Of The Year for her dedication to her disabled son and involvement in national research projects, while Jill Darnborough won the Outstanding Contribution To The Community award for her outstanding support of carers looking after those with learning disabilities.

In all, 29 adults and four under-18s received an award at the ceremony at Wolves Lane Nursery, Wood Green.

Cllr Bernice Vanier, cabinet member for health and adult services, told them all: “The support you give your loved ones, sometimes in very demanding situations is astonishing.

“All of you deserve awards.”

Cllr David Browne, Mayor of Haringey, added: “I hope these awards go some way to show that Haringey’s carers are valued and appreciated and that you haven’t been forgotten.”

Share this article

Actor takes on role at Muswell Hill charity

An Olivier Award-winning actor who wowed London audiences as the autistic hero in The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Night-Time has become an ambassador for a Muswell Hill charity.

Read full story »