Change can be scary, but it is often the first step towards personal growth. However, without the right environment and support network, it can be impossible to flourish.
Since moving into his Bonython Way apartment, Daniel has shown noticeable improvement in his general demeanour, sociability, and calmness, much to the delight of his family.
Living at his apartment has allowed Daniel to enhance his daily living skills, as well as become more independent in areas, such as personal hygiene, self-care, and mealtime management.
Disability support worker Bridget Wright, who has spent considerable time with Daniel, said the positivity from the move has spread to various aspects of his life.
Bridget said Daniel’s participation at MyPath has provided an opportunity for regular staff to see the positive changes in his behaviour, as well as build his social skills.
“Daniel’s sociability has been great since the move. We always stop to say hello and greet people in all of the rooms we enter at MyPath to promote friendliness."
Whether it is cooking cakes and pastries, creating art, recycling cartons, boxes and containers, or cleaning throughout LSP3, Daniel is appreciated greatly across Minda's Lifestyle Precinct.
Mentor Jacqueline Brice has played a key role in supporting Daniel to live his best life. Bridget said Jacqueline helps Daniel achieve his exercise goals.
“Jacqueline supports Daniel to attend hydrotherapy sessions at the Minda Aquatic Centre, and when he goes for walks,” Bridget said,
“She accompanies him when they go for walks at Belair National Park. Daniel enjoys stopping for lunch and watching the different wildlife and views.”
Maintaining strong communication with family is incredibly important to Daniel, and since the move to his new apartment, they have started to notice the personal progression first-hand.
“It is wonderful to hear all the positive feedback about Daniel. Since the move, our family has noticed that Daniel seems to be happier and less anxious.”
“Being in an apartment by himself has provided a great foundation to develop his daily living skills. Previously, he used to live with roommates and that would trigger his anxiety at times.
“The move has been a major positive. Daniel has displayed fewer behaviours of concern and is showing great personal progression.”
With a great support network around him, Daniel is looking forward to exploring fulfilling social opportunities in the future. Daniel already volunteers at Meals on Wheels.
The past couple of months have shown that taking small steps can make a big difference in the context of one’s life. If he continues this trajectory, Daniel will be kicking goals for many years to come.