“They’ve Given Me My Confidence Back”: Jane’s Story at Sylvian Care Cherwell & West Oxfordshire

At 71, Jane is the kind of person who lights up a room with humour, honesty, and a refreshing sense of resilience. Living with MS has brought challenges, especially around mobility, but it certainly hasn’t dampened her spirit or her determination to stay independent.

Recently, we sat down with Jane in her Banbury flat, joined by Registered Manager Liz, to talk about what life looks like for her now, what matters most, and how having support from Sylvian Care has made a difference.

Family, Laughter, and the Things That Matter Most

When asked what brings her joy, Jane doesn’t hesitate:
“My grandchildren and my children. They’re everything to me, I love them to bits.”

She has two sons and three grandchildren, and even when discussing her struggles, she does so with light-hearted humour. Whether sharing anecdotes about people guessing her age or laughing about her own stubborn streak, Jane’s personality shines through.

Because mobility has become more difficult due to MS, she made the thoughtful decision to move into her current flat - somewhere safer, where she wouldn’t have to rely on her sons for help every time she fell. With her pendant alarm always in reach, she’s able to balance independence with reassurance.

Finding Freedom in the Water

One of the biggest parts of Jane’s weekly routine is exercising in the water at Bannatyne’s.

“Swimming is very therapeutic, and it’s supposed to be the best thing for me,” she explains.
While she modestly calls it “exercising in the water” rather than swimming, she absolutely loves it.

But she also recognises the importance of safety; something her carers provide.

“I don’t think it’s fair to go swimming without care. If I fall, they’re there for me. They’ve just been wonderful. I couldn’t have gone without them.”

Her regular carers have become well-known at the pool, affectionately referred to by other gym members as “Jane’s girls”. It’s clear that the feeling is mutual.

Growing Confidence Through the Right Support

Since receiving care, Jane has noticed a significant shift in her confidence:

“I’m far more confident in myself, quite happy to do things. And because I’m a stubborn old bag, I tend to try and do things before they do!”

This balance (supportive care paired with independence), is incredibly important to her. She appreciates that during swimming sessions, carers allow her to get dressed on her own.

“It’s far better for me. It just works.”

She cherishes their approach, which empowers her to do things independently wherever possible.

A Positive Impact on the Whole Family

It isn’t just Jane who feels the benefit of having care. Her family does too. Her eldest son was the one who first insisted that she receive home care on the days she wasn’t swimming.

Now, carers visit twice a week to support with the tasks Jane can’t manage alone.

“I try and do everything myself, but what I can’t do, they get on with. It’s great.”

This support allows her sons to worry less, and for Jane to live with dignity and comfort in her own home.

Three Words to Describe Her Carers

When asked to sum up her carers in just three words, Jane didn’t hesitate:

“Fun, supportive, lovely.”

Simple words, but full of meaning.

Advice to Anyone Considering Care

Jane’s advice to those new to home care is humorous and honest:

“Just take it, get on with it. Allow yourself to get on with it.”

She laughs while recalling a moment when a male carer helped her shower after a fall:
“My friends said, ‘How can you possibly do that?’ I said, well, it’s that or go without a shower! But he was absolutely lovely, he couldn't have been nicer.”

Her openness reflects a message she hopes others will hear: accepting help can bring freedom, not limitation.

Would She Recommend Sylvian Care?

Absolutely, and she already has.

Jane even passed our name on to a woman at the gym who had recently lost a leg and didn’t know where to find care.

“Because I know how caring they are. How supportive they are.”

Her endorsements come not from obligation, but from genuine trust built through lived experience.

A Final Word

Jane’s story encapsulates what person-centred care looks like in real life: individuality, empowerment, humour, and partnership. We are incredibly proud to walk alongside her, whether supporting her at home, cheering her on in the water, or simply sharing a laugh.

Her confidence, resilience, and warmth remind us why high-quality, dignified care matters so deeply.

If you or a loved one could benefit from compassionate, person-centred care like Jane’s, our team at Sylvian Care Cherwell & West Oxfordshire is here to help.

Get in touch today to learn how we can support you to live confidently and independently.