Many of us take our freedom and independence for granted. But not Jack!
Jack has cerebral palsy, and despite his disability, lives a very busy and social life. Jack loves to explore his beautiful community on the sunny Gold Coast, going to music festivals, having a bite to eat with friends or just taking in the sights on his way to work.
Although Jack hasn’t always felt this free.
Jack is 33 years old and until recently, lived at home with his parents his entire life. Jack previously lived in Tamborine, a beautiful but remote location in Queensland. Being impossible to explore Tamborine in a wheelchair, Jack relied on his family to get to work, and could not go out without the support of his Mum. As a grown man, Jack was frustrated by the lack of access to his community. He felt isolated.
“In Tamborine there was no public transport and I had to rely on my mum and stepdad to drive me to the station so I could catch the train to my workplace…I just couldn’t go out by myself like I do here.” – Jack said.
DONATE TO GIVE FREEDOM TO YOUNG PEOPLE WITH PHYSICAL DISABILITIES
While his parents did their best to make life fun and easy for Jack, he yearned for more. Jack had the same hopes and desires as most young people; he wanted to socialise without having his mum around, he wanted to pop out of the house on a whim, he wanted to be free!
At 32 years old his wish was finally granted.
Jack was one of the very first people to tour the Youngcare share house in Helensvale – he ‘shot-gunned’ his room then and there! For Jack, the best thing about his new home is the location. Situated in a safe and accessible community, his home is a short wheel to public transport, shopping centres and cafes. Jack no longer relies on his family to get to work, or go out to see friends, he comes and goes as he pleases, as all young people should!
Since moving into the share house, Jack feels more freedom than ever.
“I am a lot more independent now, and it has changed my life. I feel free.”
Jack’s mum, Kerry, admits the move was initially very difficult for her, but now, seeing her boy living the young and independent life he has been striving for, gives her a sense of peace. Kerry and Jack have also noticed a positive shift in their relationship – they are mum and son and, for the first time, have discovered a lovely friendship.
“As a family we couldn’t be happier for Jack. He settled into the beautiful home very quickly, which made the transition much easier for us as a family. It has given us peace of mind knowing that Jack is happy, and we can visit him and spend quality time together.” – Kerry said.
Jack’s newly found freedom and independence has inspired Kerry and her partner to make a big move as well. With Jack’s encouragement and after years of dreaming, they have finally moved to the beach! This is something that would not have been possible if Jack was still in their care at home.
“We would never have done that if Jack was still with us, it would never have even crossed our minds. In that respect it has changed our lives as well in a positive way.” – Kerry said.
When Kerry goes home after their weekly visits, they both feel thrilled knowing they are living their best lives, they feel happy for each other! The impact of a stable, accessible home in a great location has such a wide reach – it creates choice, independence, and dignity for young people with disabilities, and peace of mind for their loved ones.
Jack said,
“I believe people with disabilities have every right to live independently and Youngcare gives us the freedom to do that. I’m really happy to be given the opportunity to live independently and experience life without my family around twenty-four seven.”
And Kerry would like to give a heartfelt thank you to the incredible supporters who have contributed to Jack’s new home and the start of their new lives,
“A huge thank you to all those that helped fund the amazing home that Jack lives in. We hope that you realise the impact you have made on so many lives. More of these homes are definitely needed so other lives can benefit in a positive way.”
