Sam Sadie, newsletter editor for Huntingdon & District NCT branch, talks about life as a mum and how having ME hasn’t stopped her from volunteering.
My name’s Sam and I have two beautiful boys: Ethan, who is four, and Jesse, who is six months. I’m married to Chris. I suffer from ME, which is a long-term condition where there is no ‘cure’, no universally accepted treatment and, unfortunately, some doctors don’t even believe it exists. I can assure you it does. My ME started in June 2007 and I have different symptoms, including crippling fatigue, brain ‘fog’, sleep disturbance and pain.
Additionally, my health and mobility have gradually deteriorated over the years and left me housebound, and even bedbound, at times. ME has affected almost everything in my life, including my ability to actively parent my children.
My wonderfully supportive and supremely patient husband is my primary caregiver. He’s also the main carer for our children, all while working full-time. He’s the driving force behind the smooth functioning of our family although he will tell you quite sincerely that he does nothing special.
I joined NCT just before my eldest son was born in 2010. My friend was a member at the time, and she spoke so highly of her experience of the coffee mornings, social events and Nearly New Sales, that I wanted to join too.
I’ve always enjoyed desktop publishing and, after receiving a few copies of the branch newsletter, I offered my services. My first issue as editor was the summer 2011 edition.
Volunteering gives me a great deal of satisfaction, and my current role enables me to give my time, yet it’s something I can do at my own pace, even when bedbound.
I enjoy being part of a wonderful branch committee, and reaching so many local families.
My local NCT branch gave me so much support as a new parent, and it’s where I met most of my ‘mum’ friends. Local branches provide parents with personalised support, social events and information that wouldn’t be possible if the charity operated on a purely national level.
I believe it’s important either to volunteer, or be involved in some form of charitable giving. I’m living proof that anyone can volunteer, no matter what your circumstances.
I’d really encourage anyone not already volunteering, to contact your local branch and see how you can get involved.
Volunteering with NCT will give you an opportunity to learn new skills and rediscover old ones. Your branch will be really happy to welcome you – whether you have an hour spare or a few to help out!
Find out more about volunteering with your local NCT branch.
