Caroline Cook, 63, is a single mum to her son Steven, who sustained a brain injury following treatment for childhood cancer. Steven also has diagnoses of autism and epilepsy.
Steven, now 39, has needed hospital treatment many times over the years and Caroline has dedicated her life to caring for him, alongside his elder brother and sister, all while helping others.
Nearly 20 years ago, Caroline became one of the founder members of brain injury charity Headway East Lothian and has since used her knowledge and experience to support other carers. As a result, Caroline is one of just three finalists up for the Carer of the Year Award.
The accolade, sponsored by law firm Hugh James, will be presented by Headway – the brain injury association, at its glittering awards ceremony on December 8 at The Landmark London hotel.
She was nominated for the Carer of the Year award by Joyce Cattanach from Headway East Lothian. Joyce said: "Due to Steven's behaviour when he was younger, he was placed with adults with severe mental health problems. Caroline fought for years to have him successfully returned home and under her care.
"Caroline is a true example of courage over adversity - she has fought and fought for Steven. Getting Guardianship for Steven and having it renewed was a major achievement.
"She has very little time for herself. Since COVID-19, Steven has not received any day service support, and respite has only recently started up again, giving Caroline a much-needed break every few months.
"Caroline also attended the very first meeting where Headway East Lothian began. Beforehand, there was no support for people living with the effects of an acquired brain injury and their family carers."
As well as continuing with her caring duties, Caroline further stepped up her support for Headway East Lothian's brain injury survivors during the pandemic.
"Caroline made large throws, each to a different design and colour scheme and offered them out to the group as 'cuddle blankets' for those alone at home without anyone to give them a hug," said Joyce. "This was such a special thing to do and is just another example of how kind and caring Caroline can be."
Joyce added: "Caroline has also been a carer representative on the Board of Trustees of Headway East Lothian for several years and has only recently stepped back due to other commitments. She was a constant source of quiet inspiration, and she so deserves this award."
Caroline said: "I feel honoured to be in the final. My son and I have been with Headway East Lothian for 19 years, and it's a group I have always felt supported in. There is always someone there to talk to."
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