While the festive period is synonymous for the act of gift-giving, sometimes the greatest gift of all isn’t the one that is wrapped and placed under a Christmas tree.
Christmas Eve will mark a wonderful milestone for Christian, with it being six months since he moved into his Home & Living Support (SIL) accommodation in North Brighton.
The move from residential aged care has provided Christian with the perfect environment to focus on existing hobbies, and to try his hand at new and exciting opportunities.
“It is a lovely house and I get along well with my roommate, Lorraine. There is no place I’d rather be to be honest,”
For the majority of his life, Christian has derived happiness and the feeling of accomplishment through song.
“I have been a musician for as long as I can remember. Music has always provided me with a way to express myself,” Christian said.
“Although I enjoy playing the guitar, I am a singer at heart. Playing the guitar helps me write songs.”
Not many people can claim to have created an album, but for this creative musician, he has used his talents to create multiple albums over the years – and the desire to make music is as strong as ever.
The ability to rock out and create joy through music is a feeling Christian describes as “amazing”, but he also gets the same feeling of accomplishment through filming music videos.
“I am currently making a film clip. Although it takes a long time, it’s something that I enjoy doing. The process allows me to catch up with my bandmates, who are also my friends,” Christian said.
“My two friends, who are both called Michael, are an important part of my life. It is sometimes hard to catch up because they are busy, but every time we are together we cherish those moments.”
“I also have air-conditioning, plenty of orange juice and have food prepared for me – what more could you want?”
Outside of music, Christian values being located close to some of South Australia’s best beaches and being able to experience the soothing sea breeze.
Having a set routine has been beneficial for Christian, who consistently looks forwards to spending every Thursday with one of his friends.
“One of the Michaels is my Thursday driver – we use that day to go out and do anything we want to do. We went to the kiosk on the esplanade last week and that was great,” Christian explained.
While spending quality time in the community with loved ones is important to Christian, being able to return to a place that truly feels like home fills him with indescribable happiness.
One of the benefits Christian has identified living at Minda is that he receives the support he needs for everyday life.
Although a change of scenery can be daunting, Christian’s move has provided him with the foundation to follow his dreams and live his best life.
“It is a lovely house and I get along well with my roommate, Lorraine. There is no place I’d rather be to be honest,” Christian said.
“I also have air-conditioning, plenty of orange juice and have food prepared for me – what more could you want?”
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Minda’s Home & Living Support (SIL) can help you find the right house that’s suitable to your needs and preference, with housemates that have shared interests and with the support you require.
If you have any questions about Minda’s Home & Living Supports (SIL), or the application process, please call 1800 164 632 or complete the contact form below.
Visit our Home & Living Supports page to view all the current SIL vacancies Minda has available.