A WEST CORK woman has stepped up and offered free home care support for an 82-year-old man who has been let down by the healthcare system.

The woman, a healthcare assistant by profession, does not want to be named, but after reading last week’s front-page report about Cornelius Burke in The Southern Star she is willing to help.

Although already busy with her job and as a mother to young children, she said: ‘Until Cornelius is sorted with carers I am available to help in the morning from 8am or 11am with dressing, washing, breakfast, and light housework.’

The kindly offer was made to Cornelius, who has stage four prostate cancer, is partially blind, and lives alone in a remote area.

It is understood that his discharge from hospital, after three months of treatment, was due to a staffing shortage.

And, after repeated requests, a Home Support Services co-ordinator offered one day of State-provided home support each week.

The man’s niece, Eileen Hayes, who lives near Cork city, is on record as saying that her uncle needs care for three more days to make it work.

Meanwhile, the carer described the deficiencies in the Home Help system as being ‘a very sad situation because older people can fall through the net so easily.’

She said it is not right that the services are not available, and it’s not right that older people face such isolation.

The carer praised the organisation Alone, which this week issued an appeal for volunteers to support older people facing loneliness and isolation in Cork.

With demand for its services continuing to grow, a spokesperson said: ‘Alone’s volunteers play a vital role in offering companionship, practical support, and a friendly voice to those who need it most.’

Before going to press, Eileen Hayes contacted The Southern Star to say she appreciated the offer of support but was glad to report that they have secured two days paid work and one day from the HSE.