Garth is a unique individual with a passion for art and creativity. Garth lives with Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Schizophrenia and Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and has been a part of the Therapy Care community for 18 months.
His 2021 NDIS goals centered on fostering the passion and love he places into his artwork and participating in community oriented programs. Unfortunately, the implications of COVID-19 threatened Garth’s ability to participate in the community.
Like many of us, Garth found it challenging to adjust when lockdown struck. Before restrictions were enforced, Garth was attending Therapy Care’s art therapy group. During lockdown Garth transitioned to one-on-one social support, attended our virtual group program and received meal delivery services. At first, Garth had reservations about joining the virtual group program, but our group program manager Matt, encouraged Garth to give it a go.
Garth says two members of his Therapy Care support team, Steve and David, both played a significant role in supporting his wellbeing during lockdown. During this time Garth enjoyed many day trips to different locations including Bilbin, Lawson, Richmond and Windsor.
In addition to keeping Garth active and outdoors, his support team encouraged and then assisted with Garth’s application for the Blacktown Art Show.
Garth then went on to participate in a four week program with Front Up Art Studio where he painted numerous artworks that were then on display in a two day open gallery showing.
His support worker David says, “Garth’s artworks are extraordinary. Seeing him show them publicly at the exhibition was an incredible moment.”
Building on his success, his 2022 NDIS goals are to discover new parts of Sydney during Therapy Care’s day program and continue nurturing his love for creating art.
Garth explains “Without Therapy Care and one-on-one supports during lockdown, I feel I may have turned back to bad habits. I always feel safe physically and emotionally with all Therapy Care staff.”
