Karen used to work in Marketing and Communications and was an executive member of her team. She loved her job, as it allowed her to travel the country as she chased the ultimate job.

Almost 10 years ago, Karen suffered a severe stroke that paralysed the left side of her body and affected her brain functionality including sight and speech. Karen was told by doctors that she would never walk again. Her independence and love of walking and traveling was suddenly taken away from her.

Before she came to Able Australia, Karen could not get out of bed. However, with Able support staff, Karen has defeated the odds and is now not only walking, but accomplishing many of her goals. Some of her goals included regaining independence, and to be able to cook and walk by herself again. Able Australia works collaboratively with Karen to understand her goals, and create a dynamic plan to help her achieve them.

Karen loves attending some of Able Australia’s community participation programs, including personalised gym sessions, music classes and staring in concerts. With her support workers, Karen is now able to do the activities she enjoys most again, such as shopping, going to the cinemas, tourist trips and tending to her veggie gardening.

Able Australia has been providing disability support for clients like Karen for over 50 years, and is committed to empowering the individuals we support to live they life they choose. We work closely with our clients and their support networks to identify community-based activities they are most interested in doing, goals they would like to achieve and the best way to achieve them.

As a not-for-profit, your support will greatly assist us to continue to provide our high-quality services, and make a significant difference to the lives of people living with disabilities, just like Karen. 

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