For over 30 years, Christine has supported her son Amila in the southern suburbs of Adelaide. Amila lives with cerebral palsy, an intellectual disability and a vision impairment.
Christine has a physical disability herself which is characterised by progressive weakness and stiffness in her legs. Constantly impacted by pain and discomfort, Christine battles through to stay on her feet, doing what she can to support her son.
On the occasion when Amila or Christine need some time away, he visits Cara’s Short Term Accommodation (STA) service in Morphettville.The break that STA (also known as Respite) provides has multiple benefits, not only for someone with disability but also for their regular carers.
Christine explains, “it’s a full-time job for me caring for Amila, and I’m on my own, which is why extra support is so important for both of us.”
At home, Amila fills his days with a love of music, animals and sensory toys, something which has been followed through to his STA support.
The Morphett Vale STA property where Amila stays comes fully equipped with private bedrooms, accessible spaces and sensory experiences, all with a support plan tailored to Amila’s likes, wants and needs.
Amila’s beaming smile can light up any room and he also has an infectious laugh, which you can’t help but copy when you’re with him. As a real social butterfly, Amila loves meeting new people, which he has plenty of opportunities to do when he stays at the STA property.
“He loves his ukulele and keyboard at home, enjoys being read story books and just loves interacting and socialising with people,” Christine says. “The support we get from Cara is invaluable. Having the option for Amila to stay in respite gives me a change of routine. I can catch up on things around the house, see family and friends and spend time with my youngest son.”
If you’re interested in our Short Term Accommodation service contact us via phone on (08) 8347 4588, email welcome@cara.org.au or use our online form.
