Trish's journey back to connection
After a few tough years, Trish is smiling again.
For more than two years, Trish lived behind closed doors. Covid-19 lockdowns, declining health, depression and mobility issues trapped her in isolation. Without hot water, unable to access her kitchen or shower, ashamed of her home's condition, she shut herself off completely.
This was survival – not living.
When disaster changed everything
When severe flooding hit Dungog, everything changed. SES evacuation brought Trish to the local RSL centre, where Red Cross volunteers immediately recognised her urgent need.
Through strong local partnerships and the CareFinder program, help arrived fast.
Wesley Mission is a partner in the Australian Government CareFinder program. Our support helps vulnerable older people access aged care services and supports and connects them with supports in their communities. We also help people who require intensive support.
Building trust, rebuilding life
"When I first met her, Trish was nervous and fearful about letting anyone into her home," our worker shared. "I was the first person inside in over two years. Together, we built trust. Trish talked honestly about feeling hopeless, even contemplating ending her life. She saw only two outcomes: dying alone or taking her own life."
For the first time, people didn't just promise help – they delivered it.
We guided Trish through My Aged Care, organised assessments and helped her secure home care. Her aged care assessor called it the most meaningful assessment she'd ever conducted.
Trish's home was professionally cleaned and vital supports were established.
Transformation
Within six months, transformation.
Trish's home was clean, and she welcomed care workers into it. Most important? She said, "I feel like I deserve good things now, for the first time in my life."
And when she invited her granddaughter and great-grandchildren for Christmas, they said yes.
From isolation to connection, despair to dignity – this is what happens when we listen, support and walk alongside people in their most vulnerable moments.
About our home care services
Wesley Mission's home care services empower older people to live more confidently in their homes. We provide domestic assistance, personal care, social support, transport and respite.
