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Russell with a support worker at his supported independent living accommodation.
January 4, 2024
by Courtney Dunn

From limits to living life

Meet Russell, an avid sports watcher who can’t get enough of footy and cricket on television. When he’s not immersed in sports, Russell indulges in his other passion – watching Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan work their martial arts movie magic! For the past nine years, Russell has been a loyal client of Breakthru’s supported accommodation service, and he firmly believes that this move changed his life.

Before coming to Breakthru, Russell lived on his own with some home care support, but he heavily relied on assistance from his parents. He recalls, “It was very hard for them. My parents had to provide a lot of my support, and it was a lot to manage.”

However, everything turned around when he moved to Breakthru’s Supported Independent Living Accommodation. With a range of supports in place, Russell was able to enjoy a newfound level of freedom, actively participating in community life and pursuing various activities, like hitting the gym and having regular massages.

Today, Russell is thoroughly enjoying his life. Each Wednesday he goes out for a club lunch where he cherishes the opportunity to meet new people and socialise.

Russell on the back patio of his supported independent living accommodation.

One of the significant changes since moving to Breakthru was also the ability to go out on his own, like visits to his local park.

As Russell explains, “Before, I couldn’t do that. I have a lot of freedom here. In many other places, you don’t have that kind of freedom.”

These positive things continue to be made possible thanks to the dedicated support workers at Breakthru. They provide valuable assistance to Russell in his daily living activities, such as showering, dressing, meal preparation, and eating.

Additionally, an external community participation worker ensures that Russell remains actively engaged with the wider community.

The team’s commitment has truly made a difference in Russell’s life and he is immensely grateful for the support he receives that allows him to live independently.

He says, “I love living on my own. I can do my own thing, and with the help I get, it’s fantastic!”

 

About the author

Courtney Dunn

With a Bachelor of Photography, Graduate Certificate in Writing, Editing and Publishing, a Master of Writing, Editing and Publishing, and nearly five years' experience in the industry, Courtney works as a marketing coordinator in our Fortitude Valley location. Courtney is driven by a passion for advocacy, especially for individuals with disability. As someone born with a hearing impairment, she is dedicated to breaking down barriers and inspiring others to embrace diversity. In her spare time, Courtney can be found rewriting Greek myths, photographing dogs, and travelling.

About the author

Courtney Dunn

With a Bachelor of Photography, Graduate Certificate in Writing, Editing and Publishing, a Master of Writing, Editing and Publishing, and nearly five years' experience in the industry, Courtney works as a marketing coordinator in our Fortitude Valley location. Courtney is driven by a passion for advocacy, especially for individuals with disability. As someone born with a hearing impairment, she is dedicated to breaking down barriers and inspiring others to embrace diversity. In her spare time, Courtney can be found rewriting Greek myths, photographing dogs, and travelling.
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