Working class man Tad (67) lost his job in Australia and sought a life in Thailand striving to make a difference in the communities there. It wasn’t until he found himself back in Australia with just the clothes on his back that he realised that he needed help.
Tad was dealt a tough hand and suffered severe trauma and mental health from his time overseas. He was malnourished, had a decline in his mobility skills and the once jovial man became reserved and quiet.
“When I came back to Australia, I was living in a caravan park. One day I just collapsed, and it was then I knew I couldn’t live like that anymore”.
The Benevolent Society’s Care Connector Sherral was Tad’s saving grace. She helped him commence the initial arrangements to ensure he had his basic needs met such as housing, furniture, and clothing.
“The first thing I did was organise an assessment for him through My Aged Care”.
Tad chose the beautiful region of Tamworth as his place to call home. Sherral made the necessary arrangements to ensure he had everything he needed including referring Tad to Tamworth’s local Care Connector Michelle who was able to find him the right services in the area.
Image: Tad playing his guitar for The Benevolent Society's Care Connectors Michelle and Sherral (left to right).
“The first week he arrived I took over his Care Connecting role to find him the right supports based on his needs and requirements”. Michelle said.
Over the last 12 months Tad has made tremendous progress in his mobility and mental health. He has a Thai-speaking support worker visit every week assisting with house duties and social support. Tad has also gained the confidence to continue pursuing his musical passions – the spark reignited thanks to The Benevolent Society.
“My support worker challenged me to resume playing the guitar and I have been feeling motivated to play again”.
Care Connector Sherral says seeing clients’ lives transform for the better is the best part of the job.
“To provide the support in ways where clients believe that they can dream again and gain the things they want to gain from life is what makes me get up every morning”.
Tad has become a much-loved Tamworth treasure with his friendly smile and disposition. Tad has no trouble making newfound friends wherever he goes including within his housing complex. Although Tad’s life has changed for the better, he always draws his joy back to gratitude.
“I lie down at night, I’ve got a roof over my head, clothes on and the support from The Benevolent Society who have made it so easy – it’s wonderful”.
Listen to Tad as he speaks on his journey with The Benevolent Society below!
For more information contact 1800 236 762 or email [email protected]. Or if you would like to receive Aged Care Services from The Benevolent Society, submit the referral form here.