‘Really hurtful that they can do this to us’

HEALTH cuts will have a devastating effect on Tara Conroy’s life, her mother warned last night.

But having her personal assistant (PA) hours taken away will also impact the rest of the Conroy family, Trish Conroy said.

Tara, 23, has dyskinetic cerebral palsy — a disorder of movement. She uses a custom-made wheelchair and cannot speak. She communicates through eye movements.

She is dependant on others for all aspects of daily living — from eating and personal care to communication.

She was allocated 28 PA hours a week and Mrs Conroy said they are absolutely vital. “It is really hurtful to think that they can do this to people like us,” she said.

“It really gets to your heart that people are taking those few hours from the people who need them most.”

Tara has attended Enable Ireland services since she was six months old.

She first received PA support when she was 18 and was allocated 28 hours a week in recognition of the high level of support she needs and also because she is the eldest of six children.

“This support is invaluable to Tara and us. Tara’s PA arrives at home when she arrives home from Enable Ireland at 4pm,” said Mrs Conroy.

“She helps Tara get comfortable, get a break from her chair, have her dinner.

“They may go for a walk or spend some time on YouTube.

“This enables me to look after the other children — doing homework, bring them to music or make the dinner.

“On Wednesday evening Tara attends a music workshop. Her PA accompanies her.

“Tara attends hydrotherapy in Enable Ireland. To facilitate this and also increase her access to pool outside her allocated time, Tara goes to the pool on Friday with her PA and on Sunday with her family.

“Tara receives PA support within Enable Ireland to take part in the sessions like art, commuters, drama, literacy and music.”

Tara’s PA also helps her with eating — which can be difficult because of an over-active bite reflex which can cause her jaw to lock at any time.

Health cuts have already affected Tara this year who was left without Enable Ireland services due to holiday closure. And she has also been left without a dental treatment service.

Because of the severity of her condition, Tara needs a general anaesthetic to receive dental treatment.

The service was always available at Cork University Hospital although she would have to wait up to 18 months for treatment.

But this service was axed last year for anyone over 16 years of age.