Lauren and her mother Rachel Malcolm-Swindells in her room at Wellington Regional Hospital children's ward Photo: RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly
The mother of a disabled child who spent much of her short life in hospital, is calling for more support for the carers of severely disabled children.
And a disability advocate says in the 40 years she has been working with families, she has never seen carers so battered and bruised.
Three-and-a-half year old Lauren Malcolm-Swindells died two years ago. Her mother Rachel Malcolm-Swindells says there were times when she was desperate for support and having to fight for help when she was already exhausted, took an enormous toll on her health.
In an essay published today, Rachel outlines her journey.Rachel and disability advocate Colleen Brown join Mihi to discuss the support carers need.
