Fifty years after he smuggled his family on board a rickety boat to escape Vietnam, Thiet Huynh faces a future being cared for by those he once fiercely protected. It is not easy for an old man to give up his place, or for his son Kim, who must ake on the role of carer, translator and (impatient) champion.
'I have to live' Dad kept saying to me. And I had to help him.
More than anything, Thiet knows how to look after his family. This all changes when he has a stroke that leaves him in need of constant care.
Coming to terms with Thiet's increasingly frail body and mind is hard on everyone, especially his son Kim.
As Kim washes, transports, medicates, watches over, and fumes at Thiet, he forges a profound connection with the man who risked everything so they could escape Vietnam and start a new life in Australia.
This beautiful tribute from a son to his father is also a timely reflection on the daily struggles and enduring value of a caring life. In telling his family's extraordinary story, Kim calls for greater recognition of caregivers, not only as a matter of justice, but for all of us to flourish.
Endorsed by Carers Australia and Carers ACT, the book includes a practical guide, list of resources, and intimate accounts of grit, mishap, and humour that will help you to look after your loved ones and yourself.
