As his confidence grows, 21-year-old Nicholas is ticking off key achievements and striving for his ultimate aspiration of being independent.
Nicholas is diagnosed with autism and over the last three years has made significant progress in building his skills, resilience and embracing the opportunity to be part of the Yarrawonga community – all thanks to a wonderful family, support teams and the assistance of Intereach and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
From a shy teenager who needed to be assisted across the road and having little contact with people outside his immediate family, this young man is now focused on his fitness, helping with home renovations, loving his computer games and music and setting goals of cars, girlfriends and independent living.
He now independently walks around Yarrawonga while confidently engaging with members of the community who have become familiar to him.
From swimming on Mondays and bowling on Fridays, Nicholas enjoys a jam packed week of activities.
He loves that he has a couple of mates to take him to the gym to work on his “anacondas” (biceps), being the ‘supervisor’ of his parents’ home renovations – including assisting with the painting and tiling - and building his friendships at PALS (Providing All Living Supports).
It is at PALS that, over time, some wonderful friendships have grown. It has been an important part of his development so much that Nicholas enjoys helping those that are less able-bodied than him who attend the sessions.
Nicholas’ family have been grateful for all the support in the Yarrawonga, Shepparton and Wangaratta areas from Brad, Max, Tanner, Bill, Tim, Nathan, Blake and Kevin - describing the assistance in supporting his growth and maturity as brilliant.
From his speech pathologist, OT, PALS, mental health practitioner and support workers – everyone has seen the huge growth in Nicholas.
The support of the NDIS has changed not only Nicholas’ outlook on life, but those of his immediate family to the extent that they believe he will live a fully independent life in years to come.
As for Nicholas, his next major milestone will be his first New Year’s Eve party to be hosted in his new independent living quarters at Yarrawonga.
With lavish chicken burgers, and a good playlist on the menu, it is sure to be a night to remember for Nicholas and his pals.
He is certainly a young man on a mission of independence.
Intereach has 17 offices across southern NSW, north/central Victoria and Mallee, with more than 460 staff.
The organisation support children and families, older people, people living with disability, mental health and carers.
If you, or someone you know, needs support you can contact the Intereach team on the toll-free number 1300 488 226, or go to www.intereach.com.au.
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