Today, Friday, December 3, is International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD). It’s a time to reflect on what we can do to increase our understanding and acceptance of people with disability, as well as celebrate their achievements and contributions.
This year’s theme encourages us to highlight people, organisations and movements that work to build a more inclusive, accessible and sustainable tomorrow.
One of the (many) bright stars in our community is Lee Stewart. Lee is living with Schizophrenia and an associated psychosocial disability. He has been with Therapy Care for over three years, and receives the following disability support services under the National Insurance Disability Scheme (NDIS):
Lee looks forward to attending the Mind-Full Group Program throughout the week, as it’s where he has meaningful conversations he has with his friends and participates in thought-provoking activities.
In fact, Lee lovesl group program so much that he encouraged eight of his good friends to join!
“A key part of managing my mental health is surrounding myself with good friends. Therapy Care’s group program gives me the opportunity to do that, as well as partake in experiences I otherwise wouldn’t,” Lee explains.
“Now that I’ve been receiving the right type and amount of support for my abilities for a while, I see the benefits of inviting people who care about your wellbeing into your life.”
Lee continues, “It wasn’t long before I started telling my friends about my support services and then eventually encouraged them to take the step to join me at the Mind-Full program.
“The Mind-Full Group Program is a safe place where we’re encouraged to participate in the way we choose. That might not sound like a big deal to some, but for people who haven’t really accessed the community in over a decade, it’s everything.
“My friend Lloyd, who’s been attending the Mind-Full program for a while now, says he really looks forward to the activities and is certain it’s reduced his stress levels,” says Lee.
It’s safe to say we’re so proud of Lee and the role he plays in encouraging his friends to take steps towards community involvement and any other goals they may have.
For Lee, he holds aspirations he never thought he would. He is currently writing a book, working on his poetry and is on track to secure employment in the new year!
“The support I’ve received has played a significant role in realising my own potential and creating more purpose in my life. It fills me with joy to express my life story with other people who may benefit from it, particularly those living with mental health conditions,” Lee says.
We’re so proud of you Lee and can’t wait to see what lies ahead for you!
Therapy Care offers three separate streams of Group Day Program:
Learn more about each stream here.
