Derrell looking ahead after achieving her independence

Bli Bli local Derrell has been living independently for six months and, with the assistance of support workers and her family, she is going from strength to strength.

After joining the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in 2019, Derrell, who has cerebral palsy, and her family, worked toward the goal by focusing on the factors that would prepare her to make the transition from the family home.

“Building up to living independently, (personal training) was a big thing to do with the way she strengthens her legs and arms, so that was a big part of it,” John, Derrell’s father, said.

“As things progressed Derrell was able to go away for a week from time to time, to build up her independence.

“Or, Derrell could be in the house with the support workers while we would be away for a period of time.

“So, it was a big building stage and we always spoke about her sharing accommodation in a matter of years’ time, as soon as we got everything done.”

In October 2023, Derell moved into private shared accommodation with a friend. They share the living costs, and the families work together to ensure both women live full lives.

Derrell’s weeks are busy, with bike riding once a week in Caloundra, exercise sessions twice a week, catch ups with friends for lunch or the movies, and regular volunteering with Care Flight.

“Derrell helps with the fundraising, so, with the support workers driving, they go and collect the tins and take them back to the centre at the airport,” John said.

“We saw an ad for volunteers, and we approached them to see if we could assist and they said yes.

“It’s getting harder now, because not as many shops are putting the tins on the counter, so we’ll need to look for a new opportunity.”

Derrell was supported to access the NDIS by Carers Queensland NDIS LAC PITC Program, including working with her family to review her plan.

“Every time I've come here, whether it be for a lot of stuff or just to ask questions, they are always here to help,” John said.

“We just had a plan meeting with Sarah from Carers Queensland, she was fabulous, and we’re going to continue on with the way things are.”

For the near-future, Derrell is focused on continuing to be part of her community and finding some more work.

“We’ll continue building her health, especially the gym (exercise physiology), community access with friends, and everything all the other young ladies her age should be doing,” John said.

Carers Queensland can support you to find out more about the NDIS, to apply for funding and to help you get started with the NDIS.

If you have a disability but are not eligible for the NDIS, Carers Queensland can help you identify and link to options for support in your community.

You can also contact Carers Queensland on 1300 999 636, cq.enquiries@ndis.gov.au,  or sign up to our LAC Connect app here.