Holly Carpenter’s dad Karl was just 56 years old when he was diagnosed with a rare form of blood cancer. Since then, for Holly and her family, the past six years have been appointments, hospital visits and doing her best to keep her dad positive.
Holly chats with us about the reality of supporting a loved one through illness.
How has the journey with your dad’s health been for you and the rest of your family?
My dad Karl has had a difficult road since being diagnosed with a rare form of blood cancer called MDS back in 2020. He was just 56 and it came as a huge shock. Watching him suffer has been incredibly difficult and as a family we have been blown away by his resilience. The constant worrying and fear around dad’s wellbeing has impacted us all in different ways. Personally, I find it hard at times to focus on other aspects of my life when all I can think about is how dad is doing.
What role do you feel yourself and your family play when supporting your dad?
I try my best to keep dad in a positive mindset. He has been in hospital for seven months now and the days can be long and challenging. I try to cheer him up and I remind him of the life he has outside of the hospital walls. We have regular meetings with his medical team, and we keep on top of anything we can do to help. It has been a lot for mum too as she really misses him being at home. Thankfully my aunts, uncles and cousins have all rallied around us and they’ve been an incredible support.
Behind the scenes, how difficult is it for you to play the role of caring for your dad?
I am really happy that I am in a position to support dad through everything that he’s going through. However, at times it can all feel quite overwhelming. I’m proud to have teamed up with Lidl and Family Carers Ireland to help spread awareness around the work that carers do. People can show their support by picking up a heart of gold pin in Lidl stores this month. It’s so important to have the conversation about the work that’s done by over half a million carers in Ireland each year. It’s a very rewarding yet challenging job and people in these positions deserve more recognition and support.
What helps you to stay focused and strong for your dad and the rest of your family?
My husband Jamie has been very supportive throughout dad’s journey. I have definitely leaned on him and friends for support. When I have a day that I’m not in hospital with dad I really enjoy meeting friends for lunch and distracting myself with all of their news. It’s so important to surround yourself with people who understand what you’re going through behind the scenes.
What advice do you have for other families supporting loved ones through illness?
I just want them to know that they are seen, heard and appreciated. Also it’s not always easy to remember to take good care of yourself too when you’re caring for a loved one, but that’s vital. I always tell my mum that you can’t pour from an empty cup. Neglecting your own physical or mental health leads to burnout, making it impossible to support the people who need you. If anyone is feeling alone or overwhelmed they can contact Family Carers Ireland for support and advice.
Lidl Ireland has launched its Heart of Gold campaign for 2026, calling on customers across the country to support Family Carers Ireland this June. Lidl shoppers can also donate their Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) deposits in Lidl stores nationwide throughout the year, helping raise ongoing funds for carers and their families.
