Headstart NewsLink June 2024

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)

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

Finance Manager: Tejal Shah

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

Check us out on Facebook and Instagram

For all the latest news, stories and rec activities search for headstart ABI Services

From the ED’s Desk

Hello everyone... I do hope you are all managing well with the freezing weather we are having. Recently we welcomed our new Operations Manager Alicia Richardson. Alicia’s job is to streamline many of our processes in our day to day operations as we continue to grow.

We sadly farewelled Therese Paksi and as many of you know Therese has had a long 8 year history with us in finance through many NDIS ups and downs! Therese contributed a great deal over these years and we will always remain very thankful for her dedication and commitment to Headstart. We wish Therese all the best in her next steps of relaxation and retirement as she spends more time with family.

In this issue you will read more about stroke, which is the leading cause of disability in Australia, with one Australian experiencing a stroke every nine minutes. So we want to highlight SADI (Stroke and Disability Information) as another great organisation.

We bring you more stories of our amazing consumers, the challenges they have overcome, and each situation very unique. As we know, brain injury brings it’s own set of challenges and fatigue is definitely one of them. Two unique and creative individuals highlighted in this edition who bravely battle fatigue are Larissa and Callan. We encourage them as well as all others to keep exercising their wonderful creative talents.

The saddest news is the passing of our wonderful CSW Sharon Bourke only in the past week, after a long-standing health battle. Sharon was truly a remarkable woman with a positive approach to everything in life. Sharon’s family had personal experience of ABI so she truly understood the challenges, the grief and the triumphs. Our hearts go out to her partner and her son.

In the humdrum of everyday tasks, we can forget to value each moment we have in life and ex-press gratitude for those who make our lives richer every day.

Stay warm!

Cheers - Sue

A fond farewell to Therese

Expo time

Another year, another successful Hunter Disability Expo at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre (10/11 May), followed by a smaller half day mini-expo at Tomaree High School in Port Stephens on 29 May. We love to connect with our community as well as other like-minded supports and services here in our region. It gives us a chance to share our knowledge of acquired brain injury and promote our Community Education Team.

Melitta (pictured left with her parents) is a current Headstart consumer who we met at the Hunter Disability Expo several years ago, and she came around to say g’day.

“Headstart are wonderful people. I’m very happy.” - Melitta

“It was a good thing that we went to the Expo a few years ago and came across Headstart. I cannot speak highly enough,” says Melitta’s mum Dianne. “Everybody who works at Headstart is just excellent. Melitta loves to go out with the support workers. It gives her a break from being at home here with Bill and I. Everyone is very supportive of Melitta, including Neuro Alliance.”

Coming up in August: Hunter Homeless Connect Day 2024

9am - 2pm Wednesday 21st August 2024 at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre. Free entry! We’ll be there to increase awareness of ABI in our community. www.hunterhomelessconnect.org.au

Our newest team member Meet ‘n greet

Alicia Operations Manager

I grew up in Western Sydney and moved to Lake Macquarie in 2010. It has been the best change we could have made!

I have been with my husband for 21 years and we have 2 children. Byron is 12 and Haley is 10, we also have a “fur child” in Echo who is a Border Collie Greyhound. After spending 20 years in financial services I was really motivated to find a role doing something that would benefit the community and I am so pleased with where I have landed.

In my spare time I enjoy spending time with family and friends, attending live shows of any sort, live music, sport and enjoy a nice meal.

Get to know Alicia

Favourite food: Spanish Tapas.

Favourite movie: Beaches.

Favourite band/music: Anything 80s onwards, my taste is a bit weird!

Favourite sport/team: GWS Giants or Parramatta Eels.

Favourite cartoon character: Tinkerbell.

Favourite hobby: Cooking.

Favourite place on earth: Las Vegas. If you could be any animal? Dolphin. If you could meet someone famous? Hard one! I will go with Hugh Jackman. Craziest thing you’ve done? Hard to pick (I do a lot of silly things). Hiring a campervan to tour around Europe without a plan in the middle of winter. Three words to describe you: Caring, fun, reliable.

Describe your first month at Headstart: It’s been an amazing learning experience, coming from a banking background with a focus on operational efficiency with my clients. I am enjoying getting to know everyone and understanding how each role assists in providing a fantastic service for our consumers.

Inmemory of my Dad –Stormin’ Norm Stevens.

Even when you know that you’re going to lose someone you have loved and cherished your whole life, it still feels like a dream you just don’t want to wake up from… but I have learnt that there is still love. There is always love… its just that now, there’s nowhere for it to go. So we grieve and we share memories.

One week after Dad celebrated his 50th birthday (in 1993), he suffered a cardiac arrest in his sleep, which would change the course of his and our lives forever. We were to later learn that he was born with a congenital heart issue. However, as a result of the cardiac arrest and his brain hypoxia, Dad was left with an acquired brain injury, most prominently affecting his short term memory, initiative and motivation.

He was still Norm though and what it didn’t affect was his love of life, his sporting spirit (now as spectator), his wickedly dry sense of humor and the greeting Dad gave you when he saw you. There were some frustrating years for him early on… but Dad learnt to live in the present – way before mindfulness became a ‘thing’. Headstart have been with us for the entirety of our 31 year ABI journey - what a blessing they are and have been... etched in Norm’s and my hearts for all eternity.

We shared a beautiful connection, my Dad and I. Becoming your parent’s parent is not something you are ever prepared for and it was immensely stressful at times. Our love language was service and it was natural.

It was a very private sense of knowing and being able to communicate safety, comfort and love just by being with each other… and this followed us right to his final breath on 5th April 2024.

In his final days every nurse made effort to pop in and check on him, come and give him a hug and tell me how special he was to them, reciting a funny story. One such story was from nurse Jess. She recounted her first meeting with Dad where he proceeded to ask her if she’d “had a fight with a tackle box” – as she has a good few facial piercings.

Dad was a man of wise sage advice (that many of us have been thankful for), he could tie truckies hitch knots with his eyes closed and felt that “blue and green should never be seen, without a colour in between”. He loved his Carlton Blues Footy Team, black beer and black jelly beans, lime milkshakes, corned beef, licorice allsorts, classic cars, and the Hardie Ferodo. He loved the Lake, he was a bloody handsome bugger even with his ‘bike riders muscle’. He was strong, genuine, kind, courageous, intentional, detailed, competitive, capable and generous with his time and care. He loved history and museums. He wasn’t a great singer but he did play the piano accordion as a child and he loved his dogs. He also loved a ‘dogs eye and a dead horse’ and only ever had $5 in his wallet if it was his turn to shout a round.

Dad, you are the man! You have lived your life with grace, humor, and dignity. Wherever your new journey takes you “be good, and if you can’t be good, then be careful’. You’re “not bad for an old bloke”. I will carry you in my soul for all eternity and cherish all the moments that made up a wonderful life with you.

- Sandy (Norm’s daughter)

Thank you for your beautiful words Sandy, our deepest sympathy to you.

Community Education Team news

From Singleton to Dungog and Newcastle to Umina, our Community Education Team have definitely had some travel the last few months!

Our CET have presented at Schools, training organisations, volunteer organisations and Headstart Orientation Groups. From April to June we’ve had 9 opportunities, with the team presenting to hundreds of audience members. The CET continues to provide invaluable insight to the community on the effects of brain injuries through their lived experience. We have received many positive reviews. “It was amazing, students were very engaged and are still talking about it today. Presenters did a great job, and we will definitely have you back!”

– Student Wellbeing Teacher, Alesco College Woodberry

We recently farewelled Brandi and are excited to have Heather (right) in the role of CET Coordinator. Both had the opportunity to share about our CET at local radio station Rhema FM 99.7

“Very beneficial. I certainly think it would be a great session to have with all our new job seekers. It allowed for further discussion about caring specifically for ABI clients and provided experiential learning about ABI.”

– Essential Skills and Training, Warabrook

We have some new CET members currently training to join the team and share their own stories which is very exciting. We have also seen some of our existing members become reinvolved in CET which has been amazing.

There are also many potential new audiences in the pipeline, so watch this space! If you know of anywhere that may benefit from a CET presentation, please reach out.

- Heather Burrows CET Coordinator

Need help?

Please call a crisis line if you need support. You are not alone and help is available.

Lifeline: 131 114

24 hour crisis support and suicide prevention services for people experiencing emotional distress. If life is in danger call 000.

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.

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.

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. 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.

Back to bass

“Igrew in Upwey, Victoria. A sleepy little town at the foothills of the Dandenongs. I met my partner Lynne in Victoria and we moved to the Hunter where we now live in Dora Creek. Over my life I’ve done lots of different jobsI’ve played in bands, done house painting and worked in abattoirs.

At the time of my accident I was working as a support worker at a drug and alcohol rehab centre run by the Salvation Army. I was going to work on a Saturday morning in March 2018 when I hit a horse and rolled the car. Next thing I woke up in hospital after three weeks.

Life after my accident has been a battle, just learning to walk and talk again. My brain injury caused my tolerance levels to change. I’ve come to accept that things aren’t going go back to how they were. I have my ups and downs but I’m on more of an even keel now. I take medication to help prevent seizures. I go everywhere with my walking frame which helps me with balance.”

“Physical and mental fatigue is a factor for me and comes with the territory with brain injury.”

Support worker Shane says, “Over the past few years Tony’s had a number of surgeries on his face to correct drooping as well as his mouth - a facelift type of thing. They’ve opened up his left eye which was closed most of the time. It’s been quite successful.”

“Over the years Tony and I have done lawn bowls, golf, karate and gardening to name a few activities,” says Shane. “But these didn’t really light that fire for Tony. While he has enjoyed these things for a little bit nothing excites him like music and playing bass guitar. I’ve noticed a big change in Tony. It’s actually a love that he’s had from years ago.”

“I’ve played bass for over 40 years and used to play on the cover band circuit in Melbourne back in the day,” says Tony.

“Coming to play bass again has recently lit a spark in me.”

“It’s got my fingers moving again and I can feel my brain ticking over. Carlin is a great teacher and knows how to treat people. He’s very supportive and he’s not on an ego trip. Even though I’m not playing quite how I used to, I can still play. It feels really good! It would be really nice

Once a muso always a muso! Tony has rekindled his love for playing bass with Carlin at Play Anything Music Therapy (main photo).

to play in a band again and go on to bigger and better things. While that’s unlikely due to my fatigue I’d just like to find my feet in music once again.”

“I do a bit of cooking which I’m slowly getting back into. Lynne helped with the veggies but the roast lamb I did the other day was absolutely beautiful. Once my confidence gets up I know I can do it. Shane helps me make hommus and we’ve also done some other cooking together.”

“I go to the gym three times a week. I need a bit of prompting beforehand, but I really enjoy it when I get there. You’ve got to understand, I’m a machine!”

“Shane is a very encouraging and a good motivator and he helps me with my balance,” says Tony. “It’s about building up leg strength, core strength and endurance. At the moment balance is one of my issues, especially if I get tired. So many of my exercises are geared towards improving my balance.”

“It’s about knowing the balance between pushing Tony and knowing when to step back,” says Shane, “I like to treat people the way I want to be treated. Tony having his drivers licence taken away was a big adjustment for him, and took a couple of years to accept. It’s still a hard thing but he’s accepted that and he keeps pushing forward with other things.”

“Shane gets me to my music therapy. I’d be lost without my support workers,” says Tony. “Shane is great! Nothing’s too much and he’s always thinking ahead. Plus he’s a safe driver.”

“I’m pretty much a loner, but people like Shane have become part of my family

now. He knows when I’m having a good day or a bad day, which is very important.”

“I hate people thinking I’m drunk so I made up a t-shirt that says ‘I’m not drunk - I have an ABI.’ My advice to people in the community is just don’t be quick to judge. Society is so judgemental.”

“I’d like to send a big thank you to the HBIS team on Darby Street. They were fantastic, and also Headstart. They listen to you and try their best to accommodate,” says Tony.

I’ve seen such a big difference from when Tony first came in. He wasn’t sure he’d be able to play anything. With some encouragement and the social aspect to motivate him, Tony picked it up pretty quickly. There’s plenty of research on how music is deeply encoded in the brain. Music is actually something that you can really retain even if you have had some issues with memory. It’s deeply ingrained with strong neural connections which activates the deeper parts of the brain.

- Carlin McLellan Play Anything Music Therapy

CSW Shane with Tony

Strength and solitude

At the time of my accident my friends were all in year 12, turning 18, getting excited about doing the HSC. They were going out drinking and becoming independent and I wasn’t moving with them.

We were all progressing with our lives, just in different ways. They were completing their HSC, going to uni, and having kids. I was learning to walk and talk again, I was experiencing homelessness and had to live in a women’s refuge. I had my hands full.

With a wonderfully creative, generous and determined spirit, Larissa has overcome adversity and looks forward to brighter days ahead.

Larissa’s stunning drawing for a competition

and Oliver

“My accident happened in 2013 while working on my high school art major, a self-portrait. I was always interested in art and I still love it. Today I mainly do pencil art and artline pen drawings. The drawing of my cat is for a competition, with the theme of ‘my favorite things’.

My two cats are equally my favourite thing - they are my world. The boy is Archer, and the girl is Escher. My boyfriend Oliver also has a cat who is his world.

I enjoy doing crochet which really helps me to relax. I’ve made blankets and scarves and I’m working on a cardigan at the moment. I’d like to make coasters as well and other things to sell or use as gifts.

A drunk driver was to blame for my brain injury. People should never drink and drive and I feel passionate about that. There was really heavy rain that night too. The driver crashed into a telegraph pole which landed on the car and onto my head.

I couldn’t finish high school. Instead it was years of rehab and time spent in hospitals.

At high school I was a social butterfly but since then I’ve become more introverted.

Initially I had 24 hours of support when I first lived alone. Now I don’t even have support every day. I’m semi-independent and I take care of myself. I’m very grateful to have the life I have now. It was so hard to have the motivation to keep going for a long time, but I love my life now.

When I woke up from the coma I couldn’t remember people or speak properly and I was suddenly disabled. Every one of my best friends from high school disappeared.

So I had no choice but to get up and do it for myself. I’ve fought my battles and I did it without any friends or family helping me. I think I’ve accomplished something.

I went through really dark depression a few times but what kept me going was my pet cat. That cat has since passed away, but I’d think of him looking down at me and how he would feel seeing me crying and wishing like my life wasn’t happening. He wouldn’t want that. I’d think about how he would want me to be happy.

Today I know that my cats look forward to me getting up in the morning and coming home. I am their world just as much as they are mine. They are my best friends and we have a really, really strong connection. They are my family - the family that I’ve spent every Christmas and birthday with. On the Christmases that I’ve spent alone I would always buy them presents and I would buy myself a present or two from my cats. We love each other! The three of us are a little group, a little powerhouse.

Since the accident I’ve spent almost every birthday and Christmas by myself. But last Christmas was different. I discovered that I

Larissa

have family in Sydney – aunts, uncles and cousins. One of my aunties found me on Facebook and so I got to spend Christmas in Manly with the family for the first time. My fatigue is a challenge so I do sleep quite a lot. Some days I need naps during the day or sometimes I’ll just have a restful day at home, playing games or watching YouTube. I like watching a guy called Kitboga who talks to scammers. He’s really passionate about shutting them down and the way he does it is really funny!

I’ve volunteered at Vinnies and Samaritans in Hamilton, but it was hard because I was on my feet most of the time. I could only last a few hours before I had to go home to sleep. I tried doing my hospitality certificate through a busy café. While I was enjoying it that didn’t work out as I could never last a whole 3 or 4 hour shift because of fatigue.

This year I’ve been going to the Mater Acute Mental Health unit and I volunteer at what’s called ‘Connecting Through Craft.’

It’s a positive thing for the volunteers because we get to do craft plus any visitors can join in. We draw, colour in and make cards. I designed a couple of bookmarks which I painted at home. The cards and bookmarks are given to people to cheer patients up and they’ve been really popular.

I am going overseas for the first time in July. I’ll travel with my boyfriend Oliver and his family to Bali and we’ll stay in a resort. It’ll be so much fun! I might not do much sight seeing, I think I’ll spend most of my time relaxing by the pool. I haven’t swam in a long time but this is a good excuse to buy some nice swim wear. I’m looking forward to the local food - my taste isn’t what it was because my brain injury affects my smell, so I love curries and stronger flavours.

Oliver and I are only going for four nights because both of us don’t want to be away from our cats for too long!

I have a few different Headstart support workers for who I am very, very grateful. It’s changed my life in a massive way. They help me with cooking and household duties. I’m not able to drive so they help me get to places and appointments. We might go out for a shop or to see a movie. I enjoy movies that will make me laugh, although I loved the movie Silence of the Lambs and that’s not funny at all! I don’t really see lots of movies because my attention span is not very long. I prefer an episode of The Simpsons or Family Guy.

I’m pretty introverted. I like time just with my support workers. On the days they’re not at my house I really enjoy being by myself.

You can be alone and not feel lonely. I used to hate spending time by myself but now I love it and look forward to it. It’s just about balance.

All through my 20’s I was thinking that I really wanted a boyfriend. I wanted that rock, that person who would always be there. That person who I could just call on the phone and I could just put all my social needs onto - someone that would solve everything. I’d been on countless dates and all it did was make me feel worse about myself and less deserving. Sometimes I just think a boyfriend is the last thing you need. To anyone who has struggled with loneliness - like I have - just put yourself first and work on yourself.”

A survivor who admits he’s lucky to be alive, Callan can’t help being creative. As he navigates life after brain injury Cal is also making a lasting impact through our Community Education Team.

Cal takes centre stage

“Ilive with my parents in Thornton, and I have two brothers.

My accident happened 14 years ago. I was traveling at less than 30k’s an hour, which is a real eye opener for people when I tell them. I can’t remember but apparently I was driving on a country road in Victoria. I had just moved down to Melbourne and was studying Exercise Science and Human Movement. My accident caused multiple injuries, including a deflated lung, a torn tricep, a broken neck in several places and numerous other bones including a shattered humerus. I had a craniectomy too, with a large chunk of my skull being removed. A hemiplegia in my brain means that my whole right side is weak. After being in a coma for 28 days I had to learn everything again. My physios told my parents that I’d be lucky to be walking in a year.

Five months later the hospital staff threw me a party because they’d never seen anyone recover as quickly as I had.

My speech is much better now thanks to a lot of therapy. It was very hard to understand me early on. The hardest thing to relearn was actually eating food. It first took me an hour to eat a sausage. Now I’m the complete opposite and it takes me two seconds!

I talk a lot now but I used to be shy and reserved. I was also super active and sporty before my accident. Unfortunately I can’t participate in sports now because apparently if I take any blows to the head I’m done for. I was a good cricketer, but my arm was shattered in the accident and so I can no longer use it properly. I used to also be a fairly decent runner. With help from the physio I learnt to run again. Learning wasn’t much fun but at least I can do it even if I’m not very fast. I actually had a fall in January and hurt myself so I’m not supposed to run now.

So while I’d love to do more sport I’m just not able to. Now I use my home gym six days a week. It’s use it or lose it.

I also have no gag reflex. So when I get tired - which is pretty quick with my brain

injury - my brain forgets to swallow and I start choking myself. That’s not fun. While I do get bad fatigue today, I’m still incredibly lucky not to get any headaches and I’m not on any medication either.

I may never work full time because of my double vision and I struggle to read. So my vision is poor but my hearing is really good. My ears have become super sensitive so when I go to concerts or cinemas I have to wear earplugs, although loud music really fatigues me.

Since my accident I have done volunteer work while doing some study. I’ve completed a Cert III, Cert IV and Diploma in fitness and I’ve also done my Diploma in remedial massage. I’m now a level 2 sports trainer. I’m currently studying a Cert IV in photography at TAFE on Tuesdays. I was always interested in photography and it’s a great outlet for me. I’ve done some of the Headstart photography classes with Eddie Cross and that’s been good. I also enjoy the social side. I just finished an Advanced Portraiture course with Warren Marshall which was amazing. It’s helping me with my TAFE photography which is great. I’d like to work using my photography in

future and I am deciding whether to focus on portraiture or weddings.

Many of my creative pursuits are quite new to me, with these activities originally for rehab purposes. While I had learned a small amount of piano as a kid, playing piano after my accident was intended to get my right hand moving. This has helped me phenomenally!

So if I didn’t have my accident I never would have played piano again and now I really enjoy it. With singing I used it to try to improve my hyper nasality. I sang at the Old Maitland Gaol and have performed three or four

concerts. I’m up to level 3 in singing and was doing ok even though my pitch is not the best. I probably wasn’t going to go any higher than level 3 but that’s ok. A couple of my teachers recommend I go into musical theatre because of my personality and how I’m always talking. I even took some acting classes at Inside Acting although it was a little too serious for me at this point. So it all started in rehab and is a great creative outlet.

I’ve still got one or two really good friends today. A few people came and saw me when I was in a coma but most have moved on with their lives. They don’t really understand that I’m still the same

person but I just have things that work against me, like fatigue. I don’t know if people know how to talk to someone with a brain injury or how to tread lightly.

One of my goals is to make new friends. I’ve met some pretty cool people at TAFE. I’ve enjoyed Headstart’s social Rec group run by Nikki. That has been a lot of fun.

I can’t drive because of my double vision, and my funding has also been cut so it makes going out and meeting people a little more difficult. My support workers are all pretty amazing people. They guide me to get out more and do things. They pull me into line nicely when needed should I say inappropriate things. Support workers help me to make decisions because I am the most indecisive person ever. I have no complaints!

My support workers always encourage me to try my best, as I’m not the most confident person. I’m part of Headstart’s Community Education Team. If my pain can prevent someone else doing something silly or end up being in the same situation, then it’s all worth it. A student told one of the teachers that it was the most impactful day he’d ever had at the school. That was pretty cool to hear. I’d like to continue doing the CET and making a difference. I thought I had the most boring story in the world and I didn’t think anyone would want to hear it. I like to encourage other people to never give up - no matter how crap it gets - to just hang in there. In the past I’ve always pictured myself as a quitter. But obviously I’m not because I’m still breathing. My body didn’t give up on me, so I am very fortunate.

The thing that I’m most proud of is that I’m alive, when I shouldn’t be. There’s a whole story that goes along with that.

Because of the severity of my injuries I am in a trial for what’s called a ‘survival gene’. Monash University are using my DNA as the base study. The trial originally had six other people, with mine being the worst injuries of those studied. Fortunately for me I am the only one of the six to actually survive. It’s a 20 year study and we’ll know the results by 2030. They may name the gene after me.”

Callan and CSW Alicia visited Taronga zoo recently, check out the following page for a few highlights >

Callan’s Taronga Zoo trip

“My overnight Taronga Zoo visit with CSW Alicia was fantastic! As much as my funding will allow I would like to do more trips away in future.

We stayed in a safari lodge and I had a queen bed all to myself. I've always wanted to stay in a lodge. We were able to go into the zoo at night when it was closed to the public and woke up early to do it again before opening to the public. It was amazing!

The gorilla’s were pretty cool and showing off. One penguin followed me from one end of the enclosure to the other. I don’t now why, maybe it was my pink shirt!” - Cal

We’re happy about SADI

Stroke And Disability Information (SADI) was established in 1988 by Elaine Leneghan a former Lady Mayoress of Lake Macquarie. Elaine’s husband Reg had a stroke and Elaine found it very difficult to gain information, help and support. This prompted her to start SADI.

SADI is a small not-for-profit hunterbased organisation who is passionate about assisting those with neurological conditions and acquired brain injuries. Some conditions include but not limited to stroke, Parkinson’s disease, multiple systems atrophy and cerebral palsy.

Over the years, SADI was a hub for those looking for service providers in the area, stroke information and support for families and carers. Often families would access SADI’s library for educational book and DVD resources.

In 2022, SADI was taken over by the new Coordinator Jordan Pasterfield. Jordan is a qualified Occupational Therapist with a background in professional dance. Jordan has obtained an accreditation in ‘Dance for Parkinson’s’ through the Mark Morris dance group in New York. Jordan’s interest in neurological practice stems from personal experience, with three grandparents passing away as a result of stroke.

Jordan has had experience in caring for communicating with her loved ones since the age of 15.

SADI have been helping people navigate stroke for over 35 years. We asked SADI’s Charlestown-based coordinator Jordan to share SADI’s story.

The core team of Jordan, Nat and Isabella

In 2024, SADI continues to be a hub for clients and families. Our staff members Nat and Isabella are kind, thoughtful and let the clients have the space to express their requirements freely.

SADI is a friendly open environment where clients casually pop in for a chat.

It is in these moments where we really get to know our clients and build lasting professional relationships.

For those interested, SADI is currently providing the following services to the community:

• NDIS access: We advise you and your doctor about the specific documentation needed to access the NDIS. We walk you through the entire process, so you feel supported.

• NDIS support coordination level 2 and 3: SADI assists those on the NDIS with connecting you with service providers, talking to your allied health team or specialists to enable you to access the support for your specific circumstances. SADI is registered with the agency for complex cases.

• Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) advocacy: Similar to NDIS case management, SADI assists those on the CHSP with connecting you with service providers, talking to your allied health team or specialists to enable you to access

the support for your specific circumstances.

• Occupational therapy services under the NDIS

• FREE stroke prevention seminars to community groups

We understand navigating life after stroke can be tough for both clients and caregivers. SADI’s role it to work with families in order for them to feel safe, supported and heard when navigating this turbulent time.

If you or your loved ones would like more information regarding our service, visit www. strokeanddisabilityinformation.org.au.

Alternatively, please contact us on:

• Email: mail@sadihunter.com.au

• Phone: (02) 49439786

• Facebook: Stroke and disability information-hunter inc.

• Instagram: sadihunter

- words provided by Jordan Pasterfield, SADI

Wendy and support worker Deb love to get into the pool as much as they enjoy a coffee at the River Cafe. We met up with them recently for a cuppa and a chat.

Water difference

“I live in Raymond Terrace but was born in Windsor and grew up there. I had an aneurysm and had no idea what had happened to me,” says Wendy.

CSW Deb is one of Wendy’s regulars.

“Wendy had her brain aneurysm seven years ago and she came up this way soon after because a number of her children live in the Hunter area. Wendy has five daughters, a son and thirteen grandchildren! They are such a very close caring family. She’s done a wonderful job.”

“I love my kids dearly. They are beautiful kids. I raised them myself to where they are now. I see quite a lot of them, they come and go all the time,” says Wendy.

“I’m at Opal aged care which is good. I have my own room and Jane is a great friend,” shares Wendy. “I like music from the 70’s and 80’s. I love Freddie Mercury and Dolly Parton. I’ve always wanted to meet Dolly! When I see her talking on television it’s like she’s talking to me.”

“Headstart help take me places in the community and get to church. I have a church background and I like coming here,” says Wendy. “I have lots of friends here now. I especially like the people that you meet and I can relax.”

“Everybody’s so kind. Young people come and ask if I need anything. People offer to pray for me. I always say ‘yes please!’ because it’s not every day someone offers

to do that. I believe in God and Jesus Christ, even though my family didn’t. I just took off on my own and thought I’d do what I wanted to do and not worry about what anyone else was doing.”

“Wendy goes to church every week. We come here to the River Café (at Grainery Church) once or twice a month, depending what else we’re doing,” says Deb. “It’s a safe place for her to come to, whether there’s lots of people about or just a few. It’s all about what Wendy’s desires are and helping meet that need.”

With a 25 year hospitality background, CSW Deb set up the River Café at Grainery Church in 2018 and ran it for three years.

“I began with Headstart in February 2023 and began working with Wendy right away,” says Deb. “I feel very privileged to have been linked up with Wendy, alongside the other support workers. A lot of things have changed for the better.”

“In recent times we started with hydrotherapy, in the pool. We’ve had three sessions of so far and already there’s been a big difference.”

“It’s great, I love getting in the pool,” says Wendy. “It feels really nice and relaxes my whole body. I jump up and down and up and down! I can move all I want in the water and I can’t do that out here”.

“One significant change that I first noticed with Wendy was that she held on to me very fearful as if she was falling out of a chair. Through doing some exercises, building confidence and also going to church she’s starting to feel better emotionally and physically. Suddenly her right arm is lifting it up higher than ever. Wendy would never have be able to lift her arm like that because she’d be too afraid of falling. So it’s wonderful to see that Wendy strengthening and starting to overcome some of those phobias.”

“Hydro and physio is at Neuro Alliance gym at Thornton,” says Deb. “There are group sessions in the pool as well, so as Wendy gets a bit more confident the physio has said that she can join. So hopefully she will be able to go weekly rather than fortnightly based on funding. The physio has given us some other exercises too, and building more daily consistency will be important. Often her family come in and help us with exercise.

“I’ve seen an incredible change in Wendy. She’s happier and more relaxed. Her memory is getting a lot better. Her pain is getting a lot less and her hair is even thicker than a year ago. She’s a treasure.”

“My leg pain came from my aneurysm,” says Wendy. “It feels like there’s needles pressing into my knee caps. It’s getting a bit better. The pool is helping with that.”

“Last time I swam there was no pain afterwards. It disappeared for a while,” says Wendy.

“I love to see Wendy floating and being free!” says Deb. “Even though she holds my hand really tight, the minute her toes hit the water it’s like instant relaxation.”

“I hope I don’t hold your hand so tight I chop it in half!” says Wendy. “I want to get out of bed more, go further. I want to say more and do more. I’d like to be able to run around the block, even though that’s unlikely. I used to jog every morning in Windsor for many years. I loved it. Before I did anything I used to go for a run. I like going to the pool or the river. I used to swim a lot in the swimming pools in Windsor when I was young.”

“Sometimes we go and sit by the river down at Raymond Terrace and have a coffee,” says Deb. “Quite often I end up massaging her feet while we just talk.”

“Socialising is something Wendy really loves,” says Deb. “We’ve been to Rec group barbecues, walks and meet ups

with people from Headstart.”

“I like the Headstart barbecues. I love to go and meet people and talk to them,” says Wendy.

“I feel comfortable with Deb and Simone (support workers),” says Wendy. “They are good to me and I thank them all for what they do. I love Deb!”

Building a life

Kris enjoys a variety of things and he shares some of his favourites!

“Iwas hit by a car crossing the road while in primary school. I was in hospital for about six weeks and then in a wheelchair for quite long. It all feels like a million years ago now!

I’m an only child and I’m pretty close to my Mum. We’ve done a lot together - gone to different concerts and done things in Sydney. I enjoy a ride along the Fernleigh towards Adamstown either on my bike or scooter. I sometimes go to Mum’s and catch the bus back.

I met my girlfriend Clarissa when we were in high school. Our home in Whitebridge is covered in Lego, which I enjoy. Clarissa has her own Lego like Harry Potter and flowers while mine are the cars!

I enjoy live music. I’ve been to see John Farnham at Hope Estate and also on Cockatoo Island in Sydney for one of my birthdays. I saw One Direction and went to a few of the Red Hot Summer tours where I saw Jimmy Barnes.

This year I saw Pink in Newcastle with Mum and Clarissa. Pink was awesome!

Last year Clarissa and I took a train to Melbourne. It went overnight and felt like a long time but it was cheaper than flying. We went to see the theatre show of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child which was incredible! We also really enjoyed Melbourne Zoo.

When it comes to movies I enjoy a comedy like Adam Sandler’s. I also enjoy live stand up comedy and have seen Dave Hughes, Kitty Flannagan and Urzila Carlson.

I’ve been working at Wests in town as a function attendant for just over a year, mainly setting up the tables and cutlery. We do it the day before functions and then we serve the dinner courses. I quite enjoy it. I’ve volunteered to help at some Wests events, like Pride. I did a barista course a while back but haven’t done much with it yet. I’ve got my RSA and RCG too. It’s been a bit quiet lately so I’d also like to find a second job alongside that as it varies. Bowling is one of my favourite activities. I used to go bowling every Saturday with Mum at Mayfield, but that place closed and Nikki (Rec Coordinator) asked if I wanted to join a bowling league and I said ‘sure’.

Kris and Clarissa at Melbourne Zoo

It’s a Saturday disability league at Dullboys. I’m now bowling with Romeo and Neil (Headstart consumers). I bowl allright and our team are doing quite well! When I can I take the bus places. Otherwise Headstart take me to Rec and I join the group for some of the regular activities. I enjoy going out to different places and I like talking to everyone. The Rec group has been great - the Blue Mountain’s trip last year was a real highlight. I go to weekly events and another great one was go karting on the Central Coast. I really enjoyed that, it was lots of fun!

I like going to car shows and Mum says I should have been a mechanic. If money was no object I’d buy a nice Holden. One of my goals is to eventually get my drivers license. I’m on my L’s at the moment but I’ve had them long enough that I’ve had to renew it!”

Kris is a very independent young man with some great goals and accomplishments achieved in his life so far. Working at Wests, Kris is always willing to be flexible with his shifts and has worked towards progressing his skills set through gaining more qualifications. Kris also works towards his goals with the

help of his Therapy team and has made progress with his planning, organising tasks and budgeting skills. Kind, caring, calm, compassionate and capable are just some of the amazing qualities Kris has. It is a pleasure to be able to support him to achieve his goals.

- Kate, Coworker

Rec outing to Eastern Creek Dragway

Sustaining a brain injury can reduce a survivor’s tolerance to alcohol, but they might continue to drink and consequently experience worsened effects or other complications. Whether you are a survivor or family member becoming concerned, we hope that some of the tips in this article can help you or encourage you to discuss things with the survivor.

Alcohol after brain injury

Tips for families, friends and carers

Alcohol is a drug that is commonly used as part of many social and recreational activities. A common effect of drinking alcohol is to make people feel relaxed, but it can also impair a number of skills such as information processing, making decisions, memory, mobility, attention, and others.

A person’s tolerance to alcohol reduces after brain injury, so many brain injury survivors become more sensitive to it. Effects of brain injury might also worsen under the influence of alcohol.

Survivors might question how safe it is for them to drink alcohol, and choose to give up drinking altogether. Others might begin drinking alcohol as a coping mechanism to deal with the various difficult changes that a brain injury can bring to life. As a family member, friend or carer, this might leave you feeling concerned for their health, safety and welfare.

This article has been written to offer guidance on how to help a brain injury survivor who is continuing to drink alcohol after brain injury.

Drinking alcohol after brain injury

Alcohol is classified as a depressant drug, although it is commonly used as part of many social and recreational activities. Being a depressant drug means that it has a dampening effect on a number of skills that the brain is responsible for by affecting the delicate balance of chemical

processes in the brain. Alcohol can impair a number of skills such as information processing, making decisions, memory, mobility, attention and others.

Drinking alcohol is generally discouraged after brain injury. Some of the main reasons for this are:

Increased sensitivity to alcohol

Brain injury survivors generally have a reduced tolerance to alcohol and are more sensitive to its effects. This is because the chemical processes that take place after drinking alcohol happen much faster in brain injury survivors than in people who do not have a brain injury. They therefore may get ‘drunk’ a lot faster than others with no brain injury.

Effects of brain injury that the survivor experiences can also worsen under the influence of alcohol, such as memory problems, behavioural issues, depression or problems with managing anger.

This increased sensitivity to alcohol can have serious safety implications for situations such as crossing the road. You should never drink and drive, or allow a brain injury survivor to drink and drive, as it can be impossible to know how a brain injury has affected their ability to drink and stay under the legal limit.

Increased risk of accidents

Drinking alcohol can affect mobility and many people find that they walk unsteadily after drinking. This comes

with a risk of falling or bumping into objects. In fact, research finds that many people admitted to hospital with a head injury were under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident.

Alcohol can also cause people to engage in more risky behaviour, putting them at more risk of being involved in an accident such as a road traffic collision or falling from a height.

Effects of brain injury that are worsened under the influence of alcohol might also put the brain injury survivor in risky situations, such as worsened memory problems causing the survivor to forget how to get home. If you are with the survivor while drinking, it might be that you are able to support them while you are with them, but do also think about the possible consequences of drinking for the survivor when you are not there, such as when you go home or if you go to the bathroom.

Interference with coping strategies

Many people learn to rely on using coping strategies to manage the effects of their brain injury on a day-to-day basis. Drinking alcohol might interfere with their ability to use these coping strategies. For example, after drinking alcohol a brain injury survivor with problems managing their anger might no longer be able to employ strategies such as breathing deeply and removing

themselves from the situation to cope with their rising anger. They might have an anger outburst, possibly putting themselves or others around them at risk of harm.

Seizures

Heavy alcohol consumption has been found to cause seizures in some people. Seizures can also be experienced following sudden withdrawal from regular alcohol use. This happens because the brain attempts to restore balance to its delicate chemical processes but ends up overcompensating. It is therefore very important for people to get professional support when attempting overcome alcohol dependence.

Alcohol can also lower the threshold for seizures in people who have developed post-traumatic epilepsy.

Mood disorders

Some people use alcohol to cope with mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, as alcohol can have a temporary relaxing effect. However, long-term use of alcohol has been found to cause mood disorders to develop and worsen existing mood disorders.

Unfortunately, mood disorders such as depression and anxiety can develop after brain injury for a number of reasons. Alcohol may therefore worsen these experiences in brain injury survivors.

In some cases, a brain injury survivor with depression or anxiety may be drinking on their own, so you might not be aware of their drinking behaviour. If you are concerned about them being withdrawn, unsociable, tearful or irritable and you suspect they might be depressed, reach out to them to offer emotional support or seek help from professionals.

Alcohol might also interact negatively with any mood disorder medication that a brain injury survivor is taking. It is always extremely important for the survivor to check medication information sheets/ labels before drinking alcohol. Tips for helping brain injury survivors with managing alcohol

Due to the possible complications of drinking alcohol described in the previous section, it is generally advised that brain injury survivors do not drink alcohol. In this section we offer some tips of how you can help brain injury survivors to reduce or stop drinking alcohol.

Limit your own alcohol intake

• The best way to support a brain injury survivor with reducing or stopping their drinking is to limit your own drinking as well. If drinking is an activity that you enjoyed together, try to find new activities to do. For example, instead of drinking a glass of wine together at the end of a busy week, consider having a hot chocolate, coffee or tea instead.

• Find alcohol-free versions of drinks that the brain injury might enjoy and that you can enjoy together. You might be able to find some with tastes that are similar to alcoholic beverages that the survivor enjoys, such as alcohol-free beers, ciders or ‘mocktails’.

Try to understand why the brain injury survivor drinks alcohol

• Ask the brain injury survivor to reflect on why they drink alcohol. Understanding the reasons why someone drinks alcohol can help with finding ways to stop or reduce drinking. For example, if the survivor is drinking because they are struggling to cope with the impact of brain injury, you could offer them emotional support or encourage them to get support from their GP. You could also gently remind them that drinking might be counterproductive as it might worsen some of the effects of brain injury or interfere with their ability to use coping strategies.

• If others around a brain injury survivor are drinking alcohol, they might feel more pressured to drink as well. Ask them if this is the case and reassure them that it is okay for them not to drink.

• Some brain injury survivors might drink simply because it is available to them in the house! Try to avoid buying alcohol, or discourage the brain injury survivor from buying alcohol, so that it is not readily available to them. You could also encourage the survivor to avoid environments where alcohol is available such as pubs or bars.

• Encourage the brain injury survivor to find new activities to do so that they do not begin drinking out of boredom. Communicate with the brain injury survivor and others

• Offer uninterrupted time to the brain injury survivor to generally ask about how they are feeling and how you can support them.

• Try to avoid using blame language or unhelpful remarks such as labelling the survivor ‘an alcoholic’ or saying ‘you drink too much’. Instead, try to use assertive language, such as reminding them that you can still have a good time without needing to drink.

• Don’t be afraid to repeat conversations several times or to provide reminders if this would be helpful to the brain injury survivor. For instance, you might have already had a conversation with the survivor about not drinking alcohol before going out, but they might need another reminder while you are out, for example if they have problems with memory.

• Encourage others in the brain injury survivor’s life to not drink around the survivor so that they feel better supported. For instance, you could have an alcohol-free get together with friends, or choose activities to do together that do not involve drinking alcohol.

• Remind the brain injury survivor that you are discouraging them from drinking alcohol because you care for them, not because you want to spoil their fun or activities.

• If helpful, provide positive feedback and encouragement to the brain injury survivor whenever they choose not to drink.

Monitor drinking behaviour

• Help the brain injury survivor by keeping an eye on how many drinks they have had and discouraging them from having more than one drink or mixing drinks. You should also encourage them to eat beforehand and have plenty of water between drinks.

• Encourage the brain injury survivor to keep a ‘drink diary’, and offer to help with this if you are drinking together. This way you can encourage the survivor to produce a visual record of how much they drink, which can help with monitoring how much they can tolerate as well as how drinking alcohol has made them feel. There are several apps and tools that are designed to help people with tracking how much they drink, which you might wish to explore with the survivor.

Source: Headway The Brain Injury Association UK www.headway.org.uk

Sisters are doing it!

Winner

Asmany of you know, Lyn loves to do mosaic, and she has a lot of finished projects such as plant pots and photo frames filling up her spare room.

Lyn had the opportunity to become a stall holder at the Bay Way Village Fair at Fern Bay. It was larger than we imagined and was held indoors in the community hall.

The hall was accessible and easy to get around, there was heaps of stall holders selling items such as plants, artwork, patchwork quilts, pickles and relishes, cakes and slices and second hand items and clothing. Coffee and cakes and a sausage sizzle too!

Lyn enjoyed showcasing her work and talking to a wide range of people passing by her stall.

She managed to sell some of her works with help from her support staff Carolyn and Ashley who also nabbed some bargains! It was a very early start but a fun day out.

Lyn says that if anyone wishes to purchase some beautiful plant pots or artwork to contact Headstart to connect with her and she will give you a great deal!

If you are interested in becoming a stall holder, contact Headstart and they will be able to give you the contacts of the organizer.

The next fair dates are August 31st and November 30th from 8am-2.00pm

The address is Bay Way Village 1126 Nelson Bay Road, Fern Bay and the stalls start from $10 per table.

Left: Lyn is support by CSW’s Carolyn and Ash.

Congratulations Kayla!

“I never fished until I met my partner Matthew, now we go all the time especially on weekends. We enjoy fishing together, often on his boat but most of these were caught at night at Newcastle wharf because he works in the day. The big flathead was the heaviest fish I’ve ever caught at 69cm. It was so heavy I struggled to lift it by myself!” Well done Kayla, winner of our fishing competition that runs through the month of April.

Kaley and her team take silver

Kaley had her darts final recently at the Hamilton District Darts association social comp. After a very close game they came away with 2nd place - an awesome effort! “I’m happy! It was a good fun night. I won a couple of games including my singles and doubles games,” says Kaley. “The team have taken me on since my accident and I’ve been playing with them for several years. This Thursday we’re right back into it!”

Leahmoved out of home for the first time in her life last year into Supported Independent living (SIL) with provider Elsy. As Leah’s parents are ageing, it was decided this was the best option for everyone.

Despite some expected separation anxiety and home sickness, Leah has been thriving In her new environment. Leah shares her beautiful home with two house mates and has her own room set up as she likes it.

Since the transition there has been a lot of focus on teaching Leah life skills that her parents would have supported her with when she lived at home.

Leah is now learning to cook, which she loves and assists her staff at the SIL to prepare meals for her and her room mates. Leah also helps with meal planning and shopping and has shown a very thrifty skill of budgeting to make sure she finds the best deals. Leah also visits her parents on Monday and Fridays with her support worker Dee and cooks them a meal, which her Mum loves being involved in and of course eating the lovely meals she prepares.

Leah’s weekly routine has stayed the same and she continues to go out into the community to engage in her activities of interest 5 days a week and is also supported by SIL staff to go to church every Sunday with her Family. Leah also visits home through the week to continue to care for her horse Bo (Bodacious).

Leah is also learning how to do her own laundry, washing and keeping her room clean and organised. Leah loves to water the plants in the garden.

It is so wonderful to see Leah meeting her goals and working on her life skills. Princess Leah is thriving.

- Kate Headstart Coworker

All in a day’s work for Nathaniel

Life on the Central Coast has been busy for Nathaniel (and CSW Lyn) as he alternates his Thursdays between working at Bentley Road Workshop at Narara and Fairhaven Op Shopping Village at Point Clare.

The Narara workshop is staffed by Trilogy who run his SIL house. “The workshop is something different,” says Nathaniel, who has been working there for a year. “The cubby house is for a childcare centre. It’s nearly finished.”

I enjoy helping people, getting out of the house and doing things like this. I’ve learned some trade skills, how to use tools and how to paint properly.

“Chopping boards make a nice gift and are not that expensive to make. It’s a specialty as you can’t buy them like this. Every other Thursday I spend at Fairhaven Op Shop where I help to sort things out, mainly toys and CD’s, pack shelves and replace batteries. I get paid a little bit.”

CSW Lyn accompanies Nathaniel to his voluntary workshop job and his paid Op shop job. “It’s great! Both places create new skills for Nathaniel. At Bentley road he uses the Makita power drill, a power screwdriver and screw gun. When he’s doing the chopping boards, he uses the sander. Both days are well structured, which is good for Nathaniel. He applies himself really well.”

“At Fairhaven, Nathaniel takes part in the morning staff where he gets designated his jobs for the day. He’s built great rappore with the other staff there who, some also with disabilities,” says Lyn. “They interact well and enjoy having lunches and morning or afternoon teas together. Nathaniel has a great sense of humor and he loves to have a laugh with the local community, retailers and cafe’s. He’s now well known at the Deepwater Plaza at Woy Woy and brings a smile to people’s faces and visa versa.”

“I’m loving it!” says Lyn who has been supporting Nathaniel and working for Headstart since December. “Support work is so purposeful.”

Headstart’s Easter BBQ

Second only to our annual Christmas party, the Easter celebration is popular with both consumers and staff alike.

Time has passed since Easter but we had to share these great pics! Thanks to Gary Luke for the fantastic photography.

Rec group adventures

Need couple womens group photos from Niki

Rec Group have had a busy few months, here are some highlights! Plenty more each week published on our social media channels.

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 Nikki!

A visit to Wangi Wangi

BBQ at Pelican Foreshore

20 Questions at bar Beach

Loving lawn bowls

Stretching the legs at Glenrock

Ice hockey

Historical Morpeth

Feedback & Complaints

our new online form is available here:

Thank you CSW Jenny

Acouple of staff, Scott and his mum Sharlene had the honour of farewelling Jenny from Scott’s roster. Jenny is semi retiring and has decided to spend more time with her family and looking after herself.

We had a lovely meal at Harrigan’s to farewell Jenny and have a laugh at the list of funny adventures that Jenny and Scott have gotten up to.

Jenny was one of Scott’s first support workers about fifteen years ago.

During this time she has attended parties (both wild and sedate!) weddings, funerals, concerts, motorbike clubs, car shows,

(scan QR code with your phone camera or https://forms.office.com/r/Kqd2L1MBhJ)

Making a Complaint

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.

Living is the art of getting used to what we didn’t expect.

- Eleanor C. Wood

sailing, pubs and clubs, all kinds of events and activities and did it all with patience, kindness and grace.

She has been a great sport and put up with Scott’s wicked sense of humour and wit and has been a great support for Scott, his family and staff over the years.

Most answers from Scott was “Jenny did it”. (We are all wondering who will be the next Jenny).

We will miss all the extra cleaning with her “hippy blends” of vinegar and bicarb and all of the cute notes left in the communication book.

Good luck Jenny, we will miss you xx

- CSW Carolyn

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

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

Jenny with Scott (Headstart consumer)