One of the important aspect of my caring role is to become a surrogate ‘mum’ for M.  When she is wanting her mum I have to clarify what she needs and try to sort it.  So this morning none of her clothes fit: they are all too tight.  My immediate response is P will fix it.  I have just returned from a shopping expedition with garments that should do the job.

M needs to know if there is a crisis I will do my best to solve it.  She has fond memories of her mum finding her clothes and that now becomes an aspect of my caring role.  It doesn’t matter if the trousers, pants and  bra don’t fit.  The important thing is that I tried to solve things: just like mum used to.  In fact, I have told her whenever there is something that she can’t figure out, just holler for me and I will be by her side like a shot.  I would argue that providing unconditional love and showing that M is my number one priority is a critical part of my caring role.

Postscipt

None of the new purchases are suitable in one way or another.  They will all need to be returned in a day or two.  However, we sorted through some of M’s clothes stash and actually found a pair of purple joggers that fit.  There are also  seven pairs of trousers to go to a charity shop, as they will never fit.  M is in great form now and has really appreciated my efforts.  She knows if there is a difficulty I will always try to help.  That’s what surrogate parents are for!