In this episode of Care to Share, Prue chats with Julian Maroun and his fiancé Elise Lewis about their journey caring for Julian’s brother Luke. Julian grew up caring for Luke, alongside his family. He discusses the challenges of being a young carer and how that has moulded who he is today. Elise now supports the Maroun family care for Luke, who has Down Syndrome and Cerebral Palsy. She unpacks the challenges of navigating a relationship and care, as well as how Luke has evolved through a more dynamic care structure that includes the support of the whole family.

Care to Share is an Impact Studios production hosted by Prudence Granger in association with the Carer Knowledge Exchange.

Produced by Danni Stewart. Sound design is by Melissa May. Additional sound design is by Brittany Rourke. Supervising Producer is Britta Jorgensen. Impact Studios Executive Producer is Sarah Gilbert.

The Carer Knowledge Exchange brings together carers, former carers, researchers, policy makers and practitioners to share their knowledge and learn from each other, improving outcomes for carers by connecting research to practice. The project is a partnership between Carers NSW and the Institute for Public Policy and Governance at the University of Technology Sydney, and is proudly funded by the NSW Government. Find out more at www.carerknowledgeexchange.com.au.   Support for carers: https://www.carerknowledgeexchange.com.au/public/support-for-carers/

If you feel upset or are in distress, you can contact Lifeline, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by phoning 13 11 14 or texting 0477 13 11 14.