The Headstart Acquired Brain Injury Services commenced in 1987 and is recognised as a premier provider of specialist services for people with an ABI in the Hunter and Central Coast region. Headstart provides individually tailored services across community access, in home support, life skills, social, leisure and recreational services, case co-ordination, and community information and education.
95 Turnbull Street, Hamilton NSW 2303
P 02 4965 4420
F 02 4965 4424
E info@headstart-abi.com.au
W www.headstart-abi.com.au
ABN 75057986026 I CFN 13046
Headstart ABI Services is a registered provider under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). NDIS provider number 4050000082
Our Vision
For people living with brain injury to have opportunities that strengthen and enrich their lives.
Our Purpose
To make a difference in the lives of people touched by brain injury by providing opportunities and inspiring hope.
Leadership
Executive Director: Sue McHattie
Manager Service and Supports: Kesley Skippen
Operations Manager: Alicia Richardson
Finance Manager: Douglas Walton
HR Lead: Katherine Fitzgerald
Quality Lead: Mitch Rixon
Office Administration: Kathy Provost
Marketing Lead: Andy Meier
Now you can read NewsLink online with Issuu! If you aren’t on our email list then let us know. What kind of stories or information would you like to see in NewsLink? Do you have some great stories or photos? We’d love to hear from you! Email Andy at our office: comms@headstart-abi.com.au
Nominate a staff member for outstanding achievement
We continue to recognise the work of our staff who have gone above and beyond in any capacity to support our consumers in their daily lives. Please help us thank and encourage our workers! To make a nomination please contact us or email: info@headstart-abi.com.au
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For all the latest news, stories and rec activities search for headstart ABI Services
From the ED’s Desk
As 2024 draws to a close, we find ourselves with the opportunity to look back and take stock of the moments in the year that were full of challenges, triumphs, highs and some lows. We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all involved with Headstart. The dedication of our staff and the camaraderie between consumers and their determination to achieve makes for a strong and resilient community that supports the needs of people with an ABI.
A new year also brings a time to think about the possibilities the coming year holds. As we move on from the workforce difficulties and operational challenges, we will continue to respond to the continued reforms within the NDIS sector whilst always aiming for improved services.
We have renamed the position of Coworker (CW) to Care Coordinator (CC), which better reflects the tasks of the position in supporting consumers reach their goals and support of the teams of CSWs. We also commenced the wind down of the Headstart CoS services which NDIS view as a conflict of interest however new service options will develop in place.
We held our AGM on 20 November and welcomed 3 new Board members, Treasurer Jason Robson, and Directors Mel Mercer and Marc Grayson. We know they will contribute greatly to the work of the Board, and they are looking forward to meeting as many people as possible.
Thank you to everyone, consumers, carers, staff and other all stakeholders who contributed to the surveys and focus groups providing information that contributes to setting the goals for the organisation in the next Strategic Plan. The Plan is a work in progress, and to be rolled out in the new year.
Resilience helps us deal with so many changes. It is about adapting, finding new paths, and embracing the unknown. We’ve had to become more flexible in our planning, more creative with our solutions, and more compassionate with ourselves and others. There are two very powerful skills we have well practiced this year – the ability to pivot and learning the meaning of gratitude in our lives.
In the final days of 2024, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect — on what you have achieved and what you are most grateful for....
I wish you peace and happiness, a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
- Sue
A reminder that the Headstart office will remain open 8.30 to 5pm (other than the usual Public Holidays) throughout Christmas and New Year.
Headstart Association Membership Invitation
Becoming a member is simple and costs from $5.50 annually. We appreciate your ongoing support as we continue to support people with ABI.
By officially “joining” Headstart as a member you are actively being involved in our organisation at a deeper level. Membership is open to consumers, family members, Carers, CSW’s, industry professionals and the general public.
You will have the opportunity to attend the yearly AGM and vote on important topics and decisions.
Simply complete the enclosed membership form or contact our office on 4965 4420.
Melissa Mercer Meet a Board Member
I am an experienced senior Sales and Marketing Executive from the global finance and payment services sector, SaaS technology and technology industries. I am also a Graduate of the Company Directors Course from the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD)
and have first hand experience with Global Sales & Marketing strategies and risk management at the Board level. My experience in Marketing diversifies the skills matrix of the Board, which I am hoping brings value to Headstart, and from a personal perspective, although relatively atypical of a brain injury survivor, I have experience in supporting my partner who is living with the longterm effects of an brain injury.
IDPwD is a United Nations (UN) day observed internationally. It aims to promote community awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability. In Australia, IDPwD is a joint effort between government, schools, organisations, community groups, businesses and individuals.
IDPwD is an opportunity to be part of creating an inclusive and diverse community for the 5.5 million people with disability in Australia.
Style up with some of our Headstart merch... contact us or pop into the office to buy these items.
Eftpos payments available at Reception!
Headstart attended the local Hunter event on 3 Dec 2024 at Cessnock PCYC which was a super fun day to be part of! International Day of People with Disability 2024 (IDPwD)
$7
$6 for 2 or more $12 Cap
Headstart’s attractive and durable hessian bads are perfect for all your shopping needs. Size 35cm H x 40cm W x 20cm D, with double 17 inch handles.
Meet ‘n greet
Finance Manager
Douglas
I am an ex-Sydneysider who made the early adult decision, some 18 years ago, to move here with my then fiancée (now wife) and we haven’t looked back. I have two children, and we live close to Lake Macquarie.
I have worked in the NDIS sector within a finance function for more than seven years and I look forward to continuing my career here at Headstart ABI Services.
Recreation Worker
Aleisha
I grew up in the Blue Mountains, and then lived in Bathurst for a few years before moving to Newcastle with my partner.
I have now been in Newcastle for almost 5 years and can’t imagine living anywhere else! I love spending time with my partner, friends, family and my very spoilt and very cute little mini Schnauzer Ziggy. I love swimming in the ocean, playing soccer, travel and reading. I am an Exercise Physiologist by trade, and have worked within the disability and aged care space for the past 4.5yrs. I love working with people to help them improve their quality of life and get the most out of their day.
Sean Care Coordinator
I grew up in the bushlands of Port Stephens, spent my time riding and adventuring in the bush. I enjoy gaming, tabletop gaming and modelling/painting.
I’ve spent the last 18 years working in the disability/NDIS sector as a Support worker, a nurse, a trainer and management, and love what I do. I grew up with an adopted brother who had Angelman syndrome and now have a sister-in-law with Angelman’s.
I love spending time on or in the water, with my fiancé and two kids (9 and10) usually at the myall lakes or beach, swimming, camping, paddleboarding, skiing anything like that really.
I love animals, and spend a chunk of my free time involved in rescue and rehabilitation of injured native wildlife, we usually have quite a few kangaroos, wallabies and wombats in care.
Favourite food: Butter Chicken
Favourite movie: The Shawshank Redemption
Favourite band/music: Coldplay
Favourite sport/team: NRL - Rabbitohs
Favourite cartoon character: Scooby-Doo
Favourite hobby: Travelling
Favourite place on earth: Anywhere with a view of the coast
If you could be any animal? Dog
If you could meet someone famous? Morgan Freeman
Craziest thing you’ve done: Whitewater rafting
Three words to describe you: reserved, friendly and sport-obsessed
Describe your first month at Headstart: Great, everyone I have met has been wonderful.
Favourite food: Cake
Favourite movie: Intouchables (only the French original)
Favourite band/music: Red Hot Chili Peppers
Favourite sport/team: Soccer
Favourite cartoon character: Anyone from the Simpsons
Favourite hobby: Playing soccer
Favourite place on earth: Newcastle to live, Banff Canada to travel to
If you could be any animal? A dog. My dog is the most spoilt dog in the world
If you could meet someone famous? Anyone from the Red Hot Chili Peppers
Craziest thing you’ve done? Any stories from my time at Bathurst Uni!
Three words to describe you: Bubbly, happy, caring
What brought you to Headstart?
I was looking to step away from being an EP, but to still work within the disability space to help people live the best lives they can. This came up and it just seemed like the perfect match.
Favourite food: Pasta
Favourite movie: Star Wars
Favourite band/music: Currently it’s The Dreggs or Alice Cooper, but everything from heavy metal to folk
Favourite sport/team: NRL – Dragons
Favourite cartoon character: Stewie Griffin
Favourite hobby: Gaming or Tabletop Modelling/Painting
Favourite place on earth: Myall Lakes National Park
If you could be any animal? An Eagle
If you could meet someone famous? Seth MacFarlane
Craziest thing you’ve done? Attempted to break a land speed record on a motorcycle – 312kph
Three words to describe you: Quiet, caring, funny
Describe your first month at Headstart: Its been amazing, everyone here has been so helpful and welcoming, like stepping into a new family, such good vibes.
Thank God Trae’s a country boy
Trae continues to attend The Vibe regularly and has been working on his next songs with ex-Screaming Jets band member Grant Walmsley. Grant helped Trae produce his new song. “‘Let it Rain’ is my latest song which I wrote earlier this year,” says Trae.
The meaning of the song is about letting go of your troubles and letting them all be washed away.
“I had Chad help me film the video at Toronto train station. He said to me, ‘mate, just do whatever’, and so I was ‘working it’ on the platform!’”
“I want to release songs and just do things that made me happy. I’m a country boy. I grew up on farms and stuff with cattle and everything else and I just love country music.”
To watch Trae’s video scan the QR code or search for T-Day Let it Rain on Youtube.
Need help?
Please call a crisis line if you need support. You are not alone and help is available.
1800RESPECT (1800 737 732)
A 24-hour national sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line for anyone who has experienced, or is at risk of these.
Mental Health Line: 1800 011 511
The Mental Health Line is staffed by mental health professionals who can provide advice and referrals to local mental health services.
Lifeline: 131 114
24 hour crisis support and suicide prevention services for people experiencing emotional distress. If life is in danger call 000.
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
An mental health and wellbeing support organisation providing support programs to address issues related to depression, suicide, anxiety disorders and other mental illnesses.
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
A counselling for anyone who is suicidal, caring for someone suicidal, or bereaved of suicide. For suicide prevention & mental health via telephone, online & video for anyone affected by suicidal thoughts, 24/7.
Mensline Australia: 1300 789 978
A free phone and online counselling service support for Australian men anywhere.
Kids Help Line: 1800 55 1800
Confidential 24/7 online and phone counselling service for young people (ages 5 to 25).Australia’s only free (incl. mobile).
Elder Abuse Helpline: 1300 651 192
Free information and support services for people who experience or witness the abuse of an older person. Operating hours vary.
Financial Counselling Australia: 1800 007 007
Access free resources and advice from a private financial counsellor. Call to speak to someone in your state.
National Association for Loss and Grief(NALAG): 6882 9222
A free, confidential, grief and loss support services across NSW with telephone support and, in some areas face-to-face counselling. 13 Yarn: 13 92 76
The first national crisis support line for Indigenous Australians who are feeling overwhelmed or having difficulty coping. They offer a confidential one-on-one yarning opportunity with a Lifeline-trained Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporter.
Scenes from Trae’s music video
Community Education Team wrap
As 2024 comes to an end, we reflect on the amazing work the Community Education Team has done this year.
With over 70 presentations throughout the year, raising awareness to hundreds of people, the impact continues to be massive.
We have had new members join the team which has been wonderful to see their journeys and growth. We have presented at some new venues and gained some new ongoing venues for collaborating. We have been presenting regularly at several training organisations, which provides new workers coming into the industry with invaluable knowledge and has even resulted in some new employees. We have lots of exciting goals to work towards next year and have already started booking in several events for 2025!
Thanks to all members of the team for their amazing work and passion, you really are changing lives. We would love to see even more new members join the team and encourage anyone who is interested to reach out.
- Heather Burrows CET Coordinator
Are you interested in joining our CET?
What/who is CET?
The Community Education Team (CET) are a team of people who are passionate about raising awareness in the community about acquired brain injuries or ABI. CET is not new - we’ve been around since 1987, with many different team members over that time.
The team consist of both men and women of all ages who have sustained a brain injuriy from a variety of different ways. They tell their personal stories of living with an ABI and how it has impacted their lives.
Why was CET established?
CET was established in 1987 to help raise awareness about ABI in the community, which started with Traffic Offenders programs. Since then, we have begun presenting at schools, correctional facilities, training organizations, drug and alcohol rehab programs, community organizations and much more. We want to help build a more inclusive society and also help prevent further acquired brain injuries from happening. Many of the team say that if they can save one life, then their job is done.
What is the benefit of joining the CET?
You’ll be part of a team of supportive and encouraging people. The camraderie and friendships built is a big part of being part of the team too.
By sharing your story and personal experiences you can make a profound impact on other peoples lives. You’ll gain new skills like public speaking, time management, organisation, confidence building and more. The CET can help to give yourself a new purpose and goal to work towards.
What if I am unsure or nervous or don’t know where to start?
Why not come along to one of the presentations and see what you think? It is very common that new members will come along as an audience member before starting their own journey within the team. If you decide the CET is something you would like to pursue, we provide support, training and coaching through every part of the process.
Our Community Education Coordinator will schedule a meeting with you to sit down and discuss your story and how best you might present it (every person’s presentation style is different).
We will help you with practising and set up a test run with people you can feel comfortable with. We are there to support you through every step and the coaching doesn’t ever stop, we are here to support you to continue building your skills and improving. The other members of the team are also incredibly supportive, and you will never be presenting alone. You will always have some cheerleaders with you!
Join an awesome team and part of something bigger!
Here’s what just some of our CET members have to say...
Dayne
14 years
What are some of the skills you have learned?
It’s helped me get my confidence back by talking to different people.
What has been the biggest highlight?
I have had a few good things come from telling my story to people. I had a young girl’s mother call Headstart to tell them to thank me for making her feel better and not be embarrassed about having seizures.
What would you say to anyone considering joining the CET?
Please do, as all our stories are unique and can help make people understand brain injuries more. They could also help people think about whether what they are doing could cause an injury and rethink their actions.
Gabbi 1.5 years
What are some of the skills you have learned?
Kindness and to be patient with each other because people with ABI take a while to process things. I was nervous the first time, but I have grown more confident the more I do it. What has been the biggest highlight?
Educating and helping the community. Listening to other people’s stories, it’s amazing to see how people have bounced back. It’s great that people want to listen to our stories.
What would you say to anyone considering joining the CET?
Go for it! We’re all very encouraging, so don’t worry if you feel nervous. We want to see each other succeed.
How do I find out more?
Contact Headstart and ask to speak to Heather, the Community Education Coordinator, who would love to hear from you and answer your questions.
Ken 14 years
What are some of the skills you have learned?
How to communicate with other people. How to interact with audiences and other members of the team.
What has been the biggest highlight?
To be able to educate the community on brain injury. Making new friends whilst being part of the team. Some of the feedback we receive and knowing that we are really helping the community. What would you say to anyone considering joining the CET?
Go ahead and do it. I know it’s a bit scary but once you get out there it worth it to help people.
Ricki-Lee
6 months
What are some of the skills you have learned?
To be more confident in public speaking and talking to strangers. Although I was a hairdresser before my accident and spoke to people, this is different.
I was a bit nervous for my first one but I know my story now and I’m all good. What has been the biggest highlight? It feels like I’m getting up and going ‘to work’. I like to be busy and doing something positive for other people. What would you say to anyone considering joining the CET?
So glad to be a part of the Community Education Team, getting to meet new friends and getting my story out there for others to hear. If could change anyone’s life it’s a bonus and makes me feel happy to tell it. It also makes me feel special to be part of the team. I’m so glad I decided to do it.
Romeo
Over 20yrs
What are some of the skills you have learned?
Slowing down on my talk and listening to what the audience asks and answering the question in the shortest an direct way possible.
What has been the biggest highlight?
Doing the start of the presentation and seeing the crowd response afterwards. What would you say to anyone considering joining the CET?
Builds your confidence standing In front of people, telling them about yourself and the pleasure that you are still able to.
Darren 4 years
What are some of the skills you have learned?
Public speaking, increased confidence, and organisation. What has been the biggest highlight?
Meeting new people at all the different venues we present at.
What would you say to anyone considering joining the CET?
Give it a try, it’s a fun experience.
Brenden 5 years
What are some of the skills you have learned?
Public speaking. What has been the biggest highlight?
Educating and helping the community. What would you say to anyone considering joining the CET?
We’re a great crew, all with different backgrounds and experiences, all working towards the same goal.
Ariane steps it up
“Four and a half years ago I was driving up the hill at Tingira Heights and felt like something was happening to my leg. I couldn’t use the accelerator properly. That was the first sign of a problem, but looking back my writing was getting more and more messy for no apparent reason. I thought it was just being so busy with our business, family and life. So I dismissed it because I was a busy woman running around a lot.
At first they suspected a stroke, but it wasn’t the case. So they contacted John Hunter who did scans and discovered a brain tumour. I had the highest grade brain cancer, caused by a tumour. I went into surgery a few days later, in 2020.
They local surgeon was only able to remove about 60% of the tumour at the time they gave me no hope. They told me I had about 6-8 weeks to live and there was nothing they could do.
My cousin Renee contacted Sydney neurosurgeon Charlie Teo and as soon as he got the call he brought me straight in. Being the rebel that I am, I said to Charlie ‘I’ll do surgery today’ as I wanted to save
my life. I chose to live, because it was that or die. Charlie told me to think about it seriously and explained the consequences I was facing, but it didn’t deter me. A few weeks later I had my second operation with Charlie. Before I went in I had a big party at the yacht club on the Saturday before I went down, hundreds of people, and then I went down on the Monday.”
Ari’s husband Grant says, “If you think Charlie Teo operates on everyone who needs help that’s not the case. I know two people who sent him their scans, one who I worked with and another who was told ‘sorry I can’t help, I suggest you get your things in order.’ So not everybody is so lucky. It was all very quick and Ari was determined to do it.”
Ari continues, “My recovery after surgery involved being transferred between seven different hospitals. From Belmont to John Hunter to Warners Bay Private, to Gosford Private and more. Several months later I was home and my son and daughter came to live with me full time to care for me. That was wonderful!
Headstart began supporting me a few months after my surgery. It’s been a number of years now. Kate (Headstart
The Charlie Teo Walk, 2023 (from right): Headstart CSW Christine with Ariane, Charlie Teo, Ari’s daughter Katelyn, son Andrew and his good friend Luke.
Care Coordinator) has been great, and all the support workers are wonderful. I get support most days. I need support to get to activities like physios, speech therapy, and walking. I had trouble with my right side and exercise regularly to strengthen.”
I was right handed before, but now I’ve adapted to use my left. I’m determined to get my life back. It’s not the same as it was but as close to normal.
“The carers have been brilliant with Ari,” says Grant. “Getting her going, exercising for hours on Wednesdays and Fridays, whether it’s walking or other exercises. She’s got a good team! She’s been working on her right hand and opening it up, and it’s going well. Movement is happening now and it’s very encouraging. She uses the step regularly. Ball throwing. Weights. Always trying to improve. She can go months without a fall, but sometimes she pushes her boundaries and it can happen.”
“Socially life is busy and have a lot going on,” says Ari. “I enjoy lunches, dinners, and I love to catch up with friends. I have a couple of good friends in the area who come and visit every week. I’ve still got some really close friends and I try to get everybody together to go out for lunch. I also enjoy shopping.”
“My sister-in-law and I sit down on Fridays and do watercolour art, which I enjoy. I love my garden. I plant from seed and I like to get out there to water them and see how they are going. I enjoy being in the kitchen and while I like my independence I do need some help, so
support workers are there for me.
Last year I decided to do the Charlie Teo Walk in Sydney to support him. This was one of my goals at the time.
It was 4.2km walk, climbing up the Harbour Bridge stairs and lots of moving about. So it was a challenge for me. I went with my two adult children and CSW Christine. There were hundreds of people.
Tragically we lost my first son Nicholas to a brain tumour at 5 years old. He would have been my eldest now. It’s because of Nicholas that I am so passionate about supporting Charlie’s work with children’s brain cancer. It’s also why my son Andrew is studying bio medicine at Newcastle Uni. Andrew is looking at the hereditary nature of brain tumours in families.
My psychologist recommended I go and see Engage VR. I am excited about this therapy to help my brain connect through movement. One of my goals is to be able to get up from the ground if I fall. Another of my goals in is to continue to support Charlie Teo and fundraise. My major goal is to complete a marathon. That’s a big one!
My Christian faith helped to get through all of this. I go to church on Sunday’s with a support worker. Without faith I would not have got through it. I actually came to my faith only two weeks before my tumour appeared.”
Brains scan photos: Most of Ari’s tumour was cut out, with some radiation. The before and after scans how much the tumour has reduced on the left image.
My motto is “go for it!” I encourage everyone to do the same. Another is the song “I get knocked down, I get up again”. My CSW Debbie and I sing that together! Deb’s been such a positive inspiration to me.
With a number of support workers (CSW’s) across the week besides Debbie, Ari is supported in many ways to regain her independence. From daily routines, medication, exercise, domestic tasks and community access, we do all we can to help keep Ari safe and building her capacity to live more independently. Read more about Ari’s VR therapy on the following page >
Ari and CSW Debbie always enjoy a laugh.
Ari loves doing watercolour art.
Engage VR received a grant to run an 8 week program with the newest versions of the VR headsets for use in physiotherapy. Ariane applied and was successful in being chosen to be one of the participants.
After an initial assessment Ariane has been doing twice weekly sessions over an 8 week period - one at Engage VR’s centre with her Physio Harry and one via telehealth where her Harry is able to remotely link in to the headset from home to guide her exercises.
They worked out her baseline at the start of the program and will reassess at the end to be able to identify what benefits the virtual reality program has for participants to help reach their goals.
To get an accurate picture, Ari has put her two other physiotherapies on hold so as to not impact the result.
Ariane is a very active and motivated participant in her therapies, regularly attending neuro physio, exercise physio, hydrotherapy, OT hand therapy and speech pathology. Her determination and hard work has been such a benefit to her rehab and she gets stronger each year. Ariane trained for a year to be able to attend the Charlie Teo Bridge walk last year and got to catch up with Charlie who was her surgeon who removed the brain tumour. It was suchan accomplishment for Ariane and a cause dear to her heart!
- Kate (Headstart Care Coordinator)
I’ve gained experience now with the VR which has helped me to improve my coordination. It’s quite exciting!
I’m wanting to learn how to get up in case I have a fall. I’m working towards achieving that.
- Ariane
To watch a short video of Ariane’s VR therapy scan the QR code or visit www.vimeo.com/1031011938
CSW Debbie helps Ari with her VR at home
World Stroke Day 2024
World Stroke Day (WSD)
Morning Tea was held on 27 October at the McIntyre Theatrette at Newcastle Museum. This year’s WSD theme was “Greater Than” and encouraged a commitment from people to help raise awareness of stroke, and prevent stroke, by committing to some kind of daily physical activity throughout October.
The City of Newcastle (CN) has hosted an annual Lord Mayor’s World Stroke Day Morning Tea for several years. This event is supported by CN with Headstart ABI Services and others supporting the event through giveaways and relevant information on local stroke supports and services.
Hunter Medical Research Institute aims to support the one million people in the Hunter New England Health District in being the healthiest they can be. To do this, HMRI aims to grow engagement with our community and the diverse groups of people within.
77 people attended this year’s WSD event. HMRI’s team offered guests:
• Conversations with researchers
• Free blood pressure checks
• Information about HMRI’s research programs
• Updates on the latest stroke research outcomes
• Guidance on prevention
• Resources for assistance after stroke.
Guests heard from HMRI researchers providing the latest information on stroke. Stroke survivors and carers spoke to guests about their personal experiences of stroke, and of their path to recovery. Others including advocates provided short video stories that were presented during the morning.
“Eighty percent of strokes can be prevented, but many people are unaware of the risk factors or the importance of early detection.”
- Professor Coralie English Deputy Director, HMRI Heart and Stroke Program
“Newcastle is a pioneering region for testing thrombolysis as a treatment for stroke. But we’re also leading research in testing the long term health impacts of thromboloysis. Because we don’t just want the best treatments for stroke, we want to empower and create a pathway for people with stroke to live long and healthy lives.”
- Professor Coralie English Deputy Director, HMRI Heart and Stroke Program
“Volunteering as a research advisor and consumer at HMRI allows me to not only give back to the people and the occupations who saved my life, but who have been pretty integral in my recovery from stroke too.”
- Ray G
Stroke Survivor, Advocate and Headstart Consumer.
Libby’s miraculous recovery
“My husband was told ‘this is bad’ when they first scanned me after I’d had an embolism and a bleed in 2002. Then after being in the hospital for just two weeks I was recovering so fast the staff said they’d never seen anything like it. I told them that I believe in miracles!
I’ve thought about this a lotI had my stroke, but God wanted me to stay here.
I know what it’s like to have half a world that didn’t exist. In hospital my daughter was sitting there saying ‘Mum, you’re ignoring me again!’ But no, my brain just told me that my left side simply doesn’t exist. I was told repeatedly ‘you’ve got to scan your world’ to look either side and slowly it all started to come back.
At one point I was able to start to move my hand and that was an exciting moment. My whole body needed to rest over that time, and when I got home I slept twice a day. The physios, OT’s, speech pathologists and everyone got involved in my recovery which took around a year.
Libby Levey suffered a severe stroke in 2002, leading to paralysis to half of her body. Libby undertook many and varied treatments - including therapies such as art and poetry - and her journey back to health is documented in her book ‘Connecting Pathways – a triumphant journey through stroke’.
In the book she explains her 4 F’s: Faith, Family, Friends and Fortitude which greatly contributed to her 95% of her remarkable recovery.
I think it’s amazing that God had already given me the support and skills to get better. I know every stroke is different, but I believe that I went through what I did so I could be there for others. I thought ‘I’d like to help others’, and my hope for the book was to be of encouragement to others.
As I express in my book, it was so important for other people to accept me the way I was. I felt different afterwards. When someone came to see me I felt as though I had to introduce myself again, because I was different. I’ve always been an aware person, and I didn’t seem to lose that after my stroke. I was very aware of things that had changed, and I wanted them to know and accept me as I was.
I never had any disability support as the NDIS hadn’t come in back then. But my remarkable recovery also meant that I didn’t have the need for ongoing support.
I wrote my book a couple of years after my stroke. It was easy to write because it contains a lot of my creativity and comments from others perspectives: my husband John, my son and friends.
David Floate, a very well known neurologist in Newcastle, wrote the
Libby and her grandson Josh in 2002.
foreword for my book and said that reading it was ‘a humbling experience’ for him. I thought that quite amazing for an accomplished doctor to say that.
I thought I knew all about stroke because my daughter Susie had a stroke at 10 years of age. She had a fit and collapsed unconscious at school one day. I got the call and couldn’t believe it. It was a bad stroke. She lost her voice, her speech, everything down her right side. Susie is a great story in her own right as she should be dead many times over. She is 54 years old now and has made big improvements. While she has a disability, Susie now lives independently and has two children.
I lost a child, Margie, to suicide. She had a mental illness at that time and wouldn’t take any medications. I’m happy to share my experience if it can help other people, so I share this openly.
I’d gained skills in the past to help me with the trauma. One was a form of Haiku poetry and drawing my feelings
because of Susie’s stroke and Margie’s suicide. So processing all these things came together in my book. While I never call myself an artist I do a lot of collage.
I think that art is so healing. I used art therapy without knowing it for years, through my sculptures and my poetry, even though I was doing it by myself.
After my troke my art therapist Lois helped me with the book. She came to the hospital once after I’d drawn a little butterfly. I had filled in one wing and left the other one completely empty and didn’t realise it. Lois picked up on that and that set me on a path of recovery, along with the writing. My friend Jan May of Flagstaff in Wollongong arranged to do the printing for me and so I selfpublished. They were wonderful to me. I wanted a bigger print so those who had eye problems could read it more easily. So the book was finally published in 2006, several years after my stroke.
Excerpts and art from Libby’s book.
Since pulishing the book nearly 20 years ago I’ve spoken to Rotary and many different groups. I share my story, read some of my poetry and show my art. These days I volunteer at Livefree Project in Hamilton where I met Beth (Care Coordinator) from Headstart. Livefree have a fortnightly group called ‘Inspire’ and women come from nearby including the housing commission. We talk to them, offer cooking lessons and other things and people share their stories.
I have always taken two books with it with me wherever I go and give them to people. I’ve had people say ‘Libby, I just love your book, and it’s not just for stroke people. It’s for the way you looked at things.’ I love that! liblevey@gmail.com
Contact Headstart’s office for a free copy of Libby’s book.
Christmas BBQ
Celia and Ali
Kate and her mum Carol enjoying the party!
David, Aleisha and Sue ready to serve.
Josh and Tom
Ricki-Lee and Care Coordinator David
Sue, Lynette and Cheryl getting the party started .
Dayne and Kesley
Jason and Jen
Our big BBQ bash was held on Tuesday 17 December at Broadmeadow PCYC. Thanks to all who celebrated with us at our new venue!
Tracy and her son Zac
Wayne and John
Kayla, Heather, Darren and Teri-Anne
Sam and Garry
Joe and Kynan
Neil and Ren
Colin and Henry
Christmas BBQ
Deb and Faye on the dance floor
Brenden
Dayne, Anne and Kyra
Sue and Alfred Tash and Sharynn
Jason and Peter singing along
Jason and Paulinesinging nd dancing
Marika dancing
Tamara and Deb
Stephen and Jay
Kayla and James
Lyn and Lauren
Greg, Dave, Wayne and Ian
Romeo and Ben
Tony and Lynette
Pauline, Wayne and John
Neil and son Tahan
Christmas BBQ
Deb and Heather dancing with Neil
Theresa and Mary
Kayla, Alicia and James
Trae on the dance floor
Ron and Teri-Anne
Marika, Kristy and Ricky-Lee
Darryl and Ren
Bill and Brooke
Call and Phil
Kesley, Wayne and Sam
Kayla getting the lucky winner of a hamper
Mark and Nathan
Peter and Dylan
Lynette, Cheryl, Sean and Alicia
Shaun and Ricky-Lee
Gary, Greg, Dave, Wayne and Ian
Romeo welcoming everyone & thanking all
Lyn and Deb
We all got into the groove and thanks to the PCYC Broadmeadow
Alecia and Ken
Sue, Aleisha and Annabella
Kylie and Kim Leah and Deb
Sue, Romeo and Aleisha
Christmas BBQ
Martin and Aaron
The guys are having a bit of fun!
Peter and Cheryl
Guy and Tiff
Lyndsey, Kesley and Joel
Shaun and Peter
Gordon AKA John Travolta
ABI behind bars
“ICSW Brodie takes a closer look
have worked as a community support worker for Headstart for almost nine years. Two years ago, I started a Bachelor of Criminology at the University of Newcastle. Over the course of my studies there was one statistic that stayed with me early on: that 42% of males in prison have an ABI and 33% of females in prison have an ABI.
I then started to think about all the individuals in prison who would be undiagnosed. It stopped me in my tracks when I realised that offenders with an acquired brain injury are substantially overrepresented in the prison population. A few months ago, I started working with the University of Newcastle Justice Clinic. The Justice Clinic offers a space for researchers and academics to collaborate with students. The hub supports individuals who have been impacted by issues within the criminal justice system and drives change to reduce issues in the future. When I proposed to do a research project on ABI in the criminal justice system, I was given the go ahead and offered a huge amount of flexibility and support.
I was over the moon; I could now mix my passion for brain injury with my passion for criminology and I was now able to find answers to my questions in a professional space.
What I worked out early on in my research is that there is very little awareness of ABI in the criminal justice system, almost no education on the matter, and minimal research that has been done. With nearly half the prison population impacted by an ABI, how can this be? The further I investigated, the clearer it was that there is a clear miscarriage of justice occurring and there is nowhere near enough attention being given to the issue.
There is so much change that needs to happen and I think the one place we can start is by raising awareness and education specific to ABI. Poor awareness and education in the criminal justice system can lead to uninterrupted cycles of disadvantage and reoffending. People with an ABI are more likely to be socially isolated and subjected to prison sanctions. If prison staff can recognise signs of an ABI, then it is a way of protecting and upholding the rights
of individuals in the criminal justice system. It may also open space to help people get diagnosed and have their ABI recognised. This is something that I am incredibly passionate about.
I am grateful to have worked alongside people with an acquired brain injury for so long through, I have supported many incredible people, and I have always been inspired to advocate for them in any way I can.
I worry about the men and women with an ABI in prison who do not have support and do not have people to advocate for them inside. I hope that beyond this project I can make some sort of change - no matter how small - even if it is just writing an article in a magazine.”
- Brodie C
We wish Brodie all the best for her studies. We’re happy to report that Brodie has no intention of leaving Headstart and assures us that she will be around for a while!
A year in review
Introducing a snapshot of the Headstart ABI Services annual review for 2023-2024.
The full 32 page report is available to all current Headstart Association Members. Becoming a member is simple (application and payment form provided, or call our office for more info). By officially “joining” Headstart as a member you are actively being involved in our organisation at a deeper level. Membership is open to anybody and you will have the opportunity to attend the yearly.
‘Headstart’s core values of people first, innovation , fairness and adaptability inform how we operate. As we continue on a pathway for future growth, these values need to be further embodied into our everyday operations, our collective thinking and our relationships. This will undoubtedly make us a better organisation which then leads to even better outcomes for people with an ABI.’
‘Under NDIS over the past 10 plus years, the “not for profit” landscape has changed and we remain an organisation embracing “profit for purpose”, and continuing to invest any funds made, back into service delivery.’
Excerpt from Chair & CEO Report Lorraine Blair & Sue McHattie
4.55% from last year to Income overall increased by $14,984,615 12.77% NDIS Income increased by 14.97% LTCS income decreased by 8.97% Expenditure overall increased by
SURVEY RESULTS
of consumers reported that Headstart services are flexible and tailored to their needs 94% of consumers reported that Headstart staff treat them with dignity 97% of consumers reported that Headstart respected their privacy 100%
of consumers reported that Headstart collaborate and include them in decisions and planning of their supports 92%
232 people were supported during the year 4.4 overall satisfaction with the services provided by Headstart services (average rating out of 5 stars) of consumers felt that their family or friends were included when they wanted them to be 94% of consumers reported that they are empowered by Headstart to lead an independent life 91%
NDIS Changes
Changes to NDIS legislation came into effect on 3 October 2024. The NDIS has likely already been in contact with you about what’s changing, and how it impacts your life. This is a short summary page, for further information please refer to the web links provided below.
Changes to NDIS supports Participants can only spend NDIS funding on approved NDIS supports.
Supports that are ‘NDIS supports’
There are 37 categories of goods and services that are ‘NDIS supports’, services, items and equipment that can be funded by the NDIS.
• Accommodation assistance or tenancy assistance
• Assistance animals
• Assistance in coordinating or managing life stages, transitions and supports
• Assistance to access and maintain employment or higher education
• Assistance with daily life tasks in a group or shared living arrangement
• Assistance with travel or transport arrangements
• Assistive equipment for recreation
• Assistive products for household tasks
• Assistive products for personal care and safety
• Communication and information equipment
• Community nursing care
• Customised prosthetics (incl. Orthotics)
• Daily personal activities
• Development of daily care and life skills
• Disability-related health supports
• Early intervention supports for early childhood
• Exercise physiology and personal well-being activities
• Group and centre based activities
• Hearing equipment
• High intensity daily personal activities
• Home modification design and construction
• Household tasks
• Innovative community participation
• Interpreting and translation
• Management of funding for supports
• Participation in community, social and civic activities
• Personal mobility equipment
• Specialist positive behaviour support
• Specialist disability accommodation (SDA)
• Specialised driver training
• Specialised hearing services
• Specialised supported employment
• Support coordination
• Therapeutic supports
• Vehicle modifications
• Vision equipment.
Supports that are not ‘NDIS supports’
There are 15 categories of goods and services that are not ‘NDIS supports’. These are services, items, and equipment that can’t be funded by the NDIS. Note: Under the laws of the NDIS, sexual services and sex work, alcohol or drugs cannot be funded.
Day-to-day living costs:
• Accommodation and household related
• Finance and payments related
• Food and groceries
• Lifestyle related
• Clothing and beauty related services
• Travel and transport related
• Pet related
• Reproductive health and family related
Not evidence-based:
• Alternative and complementary therapies
• Wellness and coaching related
• Energy and healing practices related
• Related to health
• Related to mental health
• Related to child protection and family support
• Related to early childhood development
• Related to school education
• Related to higher education and vocational education and training
• Related to employment
• Related to housing and community infrastructure
• Related to transport
• Related to justice
• Related to aged care
• Unlawful goods and services
• Income replacement.
Supports that are not NDIS supports that may be considered ‘Replacement Supports’
Replacement support: standard commercially available household items:
• Where there is clear evidence that the need for the item relates specifically to the participant’s impairment that meets the disability or early intervention requirements.
• This item must increase whole task independence and reduce or eliminate the need for a support worker or disability specific assistive technology.
Specific circumstances the support may be considered for replacement
• Participants who require the use of a smart watch, tablet or smart phone required to meet communication and accessibility needs.
• For example, a participant with complex communication needs who uses a tablet as an alternative communication device, which is their only way to communicate and so cannot be shared, where this is the most appropriate solution for their needs.
• Note: Any smart device used for tracking purposes could be considered a restrictive practice and needs to be considered in this context.
Proposed support category
• Consumables.
• Assistive Technology.
For more detail see the detailed NDIS supports lists available at: https://www.ndis.gov.au/ changes-ndis-legislation or scan the QR code.
Fond Farewells
Mark Ellis
On 26th of August 2024, Headstart lost a valued member of our community after a battle with pancreatic cancer.
Mark Ellis was a regular attendee to our Rec Group, where his ability to connect with people through banter and genuine friendship, was valued by many. Mark made many friends whilst at Headstart and was supported by a large team who all thought the world of him, as he did them. On asking them about Mark, they made the follow comments:
‘Mark was one of a kind, a practical joker, a talented Indigenous artist, a brilliant cook of healthy (gluten free) foods, a proud gardener, and a calm man of wisdom.’
‘He enjoyed exercise, old cars, fishing, op shopping, dress ups and most of all, being with his family. He enjoyed the company of others and had a wicked sense of humour, where he would often pull pranks on his staff. Mark was cheeky and liked to give as good as he got whilst being a and thoughtful man. He will be remembered for the funny and witty guy who brought so many laughs to Rec.’
Mark’s spirit and kindness touched many lives, and we are forever grateful to have been a part of his journey.
- Cheryl (Care Coordinator)
Jo Davidson
“An old hippy, a spiritual being, and fashionista!” These are the words that Jo (JoJo) used to describe herself.
Jo was an amazing character who always had a story to tell. Jo was fearless in defending her rights and never accepting those that she felt wronged by. In her final weeks, following a long and serious illness, Jo joked about getting swept away by a wealthy billionaire with a super yacht who may have been looking for an aging hippy as a companion as a solution to her housing problems. Jo loved her family, her garden and beloved cat (Puss).
- Kellie (Care Coordinator)
Jo was a strong, determined, independent woman with a firm belief in spirituality and the power of the energies of the universe and mindfulness practices.
Jo loved art/craft, and her other favourite activity was being in her garden and tending to her many beautiful plants. Jo felt at peace in nature and found solace in helping things grow. She loved animals and took in animals who needed a home and love, like her most recent furry friend Puss. Thrift shopping and finding beautiful bargains was also a favourite past time as well as learning, expanding her knowledge in many different areas and enjoyed listening to pod casts.
Jo was a proud Mum and spoke often of her wonderful son Silas and also spoke dearly of her sisters and extended Family. Jo loved to have a chat and talk about lots of different topics and hearing her story of how she obtained her brain injury and her recovery was inspirational.
Jo sadly lost her battle with cancer in the early hours of 8/11/24 with her son holding her hand and listening to her favourite song “wish you were here” RIP Jo, you will be missed and remembered.
- Kate (Care Coordinator)
Neville was a quiet and kind man who kept to himself and lived a simple life, enjoying the simple things.
Nev loved to tinker in the shed and create or fix things. This was something he wanted to get back into over recent years, but not having a shed caused a barrier to this outlet. Nev would regularly visit his partner Linda who is now in an Aged Care. He would also enjoy visits to the
worker since he came to Headstart in 2020. Kim was a wonderful man with a huge heart who would do anything for his sons, grandkids and his dog. Kim doubted his ability to communicate due to his aphasia – but even without saying many words, he never failed to make us laugh. I cannot thank CSW Kylie enough for her incredible support. She was a wonderful advocate for Kim, always looking out for his best interest and being the voice that Kim needed.
Rest in peace Kim, we will miss you.
- Lauren (Care Coordinator)
I had the privilege of meeting and working with Kim for four years. It was a shift that brought lots of laughs and was never a dull moment. We hit it off so well he wouldn’t have another support worker I was it! We have a lot of great memories together from luncheons at Catho Pub, Mingara Club and our regular Hope St. Day trips to the bay, Central Coast. Sunday raffles where he would win a meat tray, ham or pork most of the time. Not to forget our fishing trip which he said he would never take me again as I caught a fish and got the hebbies as I wouldn’t touch the fish to get it off the hook. We ended up everywhere and anywhere.
We had lots of great memories I will not forget, Kim was one of a kind and will be missed dearly. It’s not goodbye it’s see you later fly high Kimbo.
- Kylie (CSW)
beach and the airport to watch the planes and skydivers, which CSW Greg said he would be happy to do all day! His Neice Nerrelle was his primary support and they had such a close wonderful relationship. Nerrelle took Neville to Vietnam and Cambodia in 2022 for a trip of a lifetime, which he loved every minute of.
RIP Nev. You will be remembered always.
- Kate (Care Coordinator)
Rec group adventures
Need couple womens group photos from Niki
Rec Group have had a busy time and welcomed new Rec worker Aleisha. Here are some highlights with plenty more each week on our social media. If you are a support worker with a particular talent, hobby, or skill and would be willing to assist in the running of a Rec activity then please get in touch with Aleisha!
Blackbutt Reptile Show
Catherine Hill Bay outing
Morning Melodies Halloween Theme
Newcastle Museum
Nobbys Beach
Romeo and Tracy
Darryl with a Woma Python
CSW Greg with Paul’s 42cm bream at Murrays Beach
Jason at Hunter Wetlands
Andrew and Joe at bowls
Dean and CSW Jose at Karate
Eskimos Imelda and CSW Ali
Sam and Brenden on the ice
Blackbutt Reptile Show
Kaley at bowling
Wayne and CSW Keryn got creative and made some colourful Christmas cards with these images - very clever and looks like it was a lot of fun!
Our new online Feedback & Complaints form is available here: scan QR code with your phone camera or https://forms.office.com/r/Kqd2L1MBhJ
Making a Complaint
You have the right to complain under the Community Services (Complaints, review and monitoring) Act 1993. If you have a complaint there are steps to take. At each step, every effort will be made to resolve your complaint before going to the next step.
Step 1. Talk with the person concerned
Step 2: Talk with Co-worker/staff member
If you would like to continue receiving NewsLink, become a member by contacting us on 4965 4420 for a membership application
Our membership year starts from 1 July. Your contributions to the newsletter are welcomed, and we will keep you up to date on all the issues, activities and the developments in services.
You
are
never too old to set another goal or dream a new dream.
- CS Lewis
Step 3: Talk with Director
Step 4: Talk with Chairperson
Step 5: Talk with Committee
Step 6: Talk with an outside service
Traditional Owners
At each step you have the right to have someone else present if you wish. This person is called an advocate and may be your friend, family member, staff member, paid advocate or someone else.
If you wish Headstart can help you locate an independent advocate.
We recognise, respect and embrace the Aboriginal elders and people of this region as the traditional custodians and cultural knowledge holders if this land. We further acknowledge the cultural contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders with disability and reaffirm our vision of a world where every person is welcomed.
NewsLink is produced by many people at Headstart ABI Services.
We welcome contributions from everyone: an article, letter, photograph, poetry, etc. We also welcome suggestions as to articles that we could write about for future issues - so please get on touch!
We appreciate feedback on things like the kind of stories, size of our typeface, layout and general appearance of our newsletter.
HAVE YOUR SAY on these, or any other issues by writing to us at:
Headstart ABI Services
95 Turnbull Street
HAMILTON NSW 2303 or email: comms@headstart-abi.com.au
