Celebrating every success: Pam's story

They say in life it is best to celebrate the little wins that get you through the day.

For selectability consumer Pam, these small successes make immeasurable differences to her own quality of life.

After suffering a traumatic event nearly 30 years ago, Pam’s stunning story of perseverance and determination; with assistance from selectability’s support coordination; has given her the opportunity to live more independently.

This is her story…

28 years ago, Pam suffered significant trauma after an incident that threatened the safety of her and her two sons.

The horrific events led to an eventual diagnosis of PTSD, depression, and anxiety along with several incidents of self-harm and suicide attempts for which saw Pamela regularly hospitalised.

Pam said since the incident she no longer felt safe going outside into the community alone and relied on the support of selectability workers.

 “I know if I didn’t have the support I would not go out and would become very isolated.”

In recent years with support the of selectability and independent advocacy NQ, Pam has made some monumental strides toward more independent living.

Most recently, along with support coordinator Debra, Pam has recently won an appeal for equipment and services that will drastically improve her quality of life.

These include extra hours for assistance with self-care activities, personal domestic activities, and to access community, social and recreational activities.

It also includes capacity-building supports like psychosocial recovery coaching and an increase in funding for psychology appointments.

“Even things like electric beds or a revolution chair so that Pam can sit and have her family here, and enjoy family time with her grandchildren, it all makes a vast difference,” selectability support coordinator Debra said.

“selectability is a banner for mental wellbeing, and every consumer has their own story.

“That is what I would tell Pam in times of self-doubt and worthlessness, I would tell her the reason she comes to us is that she has had an event in her life which has affected her so greatly as a young mum, so I would reassure her that she is more than entitled to this support.”

“I have been with selectability for a number of years, and I can safely say that I would not be here today without them,” said Pam.

“I have been given everything I need and more, it has been a very long journey.

 “They keep me going.”

There can be little doubt that Pam’s life is a story of strength and resilience through trauma.

selectability’s is committed to supporting consumers and their goals by finding innovative ways to improve their mental wellbeing.

Pam’s story is no exception.

It shows the effects of one individual, bravely sharing their story and the ultimate difference it can make to those on a similar journey for support they are entitled to.

But most importantly, it reminds us to strengthen our self-worth by celebrating our successes no matter the size.