Mark’s life is a testament to resilience and the power of supportive communities. An Indigenous First Nations man, Mark’s early years were shaped by hardship. Growing up in an abusive household, he made the brave decision to put himself into foster care at just 12 years old. He found solace with a kind foster mother, but his later years were marked by continued challenges.
As a young adult, Mark lived in a share house, where the house leader exercised extreme control, not allowing him to leave the premises freely. This oppressive environment persisted for over 20 years. During this time, Mark was placed under a state guardianship order—a decision he did not fully understand or consent to. This arrangement stripped him of control over his finances, living arrangements, and personal choices, leaving him feeling powerless and trapped.
Facing hopelessness, Mark saw no path forward and began to contemplate ending his life. At his lowest point, he confided in his best friend Paul, who also has an intellectual disability. Paul suggested a life-changing move: relocate to Melbourne and engage with Choice Community Health, an organization dedicated to supporting people with disabilities.
Determined to change his circumstances, Mark told his state guardian he was taking a holiday and boarded a bus to Melbourne with no intention of returning. Once there, he stayed with Paul and began his journey with Choice Community Health.
The road to independence was not easy. Mark faced significant barriers, including orders to return to Adelaide and limited access to his funds. However, with the help of dedicated Choice staff, including Paul and Liz, and a passionate advocate, Deidre, from Disability Justice Australia, Mark began reclaiming his life.
Together, they worked tirelessly to understand and achieve Mark’s goals: living independently, reuniting with his long-time girlfriend in Adelaide, and regaining control over his decisions by ending the guardianship. Over six months of advocacy and collaboration, Mark achieved these milestones.
Today, Mark lives in his own rented home with his girlfriend and participates in various activities through Choice Community Health. He attends cooking classes, fishing groups, and a men’s group, all of which are free and don’t deplete his NDIS funds. His connection with his Indigenous heritage has also deepened. With help from Choice, Mark has reconnected with his tribe and is exploring his cultural identity, which has greatly enhanced his sense of self and well-being.
Mark’s physical health has also significantly improved. Through the Bunurong Indigenous Health Service in Dandenong, he received care that dramatically reduced his risk of losing his sight due to a disability-related condition.
The transformation in Mark’s demeanor is striking. Once quiet, angry, and withdrawn, he is now chatty, relaxed, and brimming with humor. Reflecting on his life now compared to before often brings him to tears of gratitude.
Mark’s journey exemplifies the impact of compassionate support, community connection, and relentless advocacy. At Choice Community Health, we’re honored to have been part of his story and remain inspired by his courage and determination to build a life full of hope and happiness.
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