Cheralyn's Story

South Australian At Home Care Grant Recipient

Something so simple that we all take for granted – opening the front door into our homes – became near impossible for grant recipient, Cheralyn.

Like any person in their 30’s, Cheralyn values her independence greatly. Working three days a week, spending time with her partner and taking her dog Casper out for walks are just some of the things that occupy her time. But Cheralyn has Cerebral Palsy Spastic Quadriplegia and when opening her front door began to cause pain and long-lasting injuries, her independence began to diminish rapidly.

“The door was so heavy I’ve had to have physio on my arm and my shoulder because of it. If my Mum was out, or away, I would have to get a carer or my partner to physically come over just to open the door for me”, Cheralyn explains.

This restricted her ability to leave the house whenever she pleased, and posed a huge risk to her safety. It was not realistic for Cheralyn to remain inside all day until her carer arrived, her mother or partner returned home from work. She deserves freedom and independence, like any person her age.

When Cheralyn’s friend told her about Youngcare’s At Home Care Grants, she wasted no time applying for an automatic door opener.

“I applied for the grant to get some independence in my own home. It gives me a lot more freedom and Mum doesn’t have to be home anymore, and if my partner is not with me then I can get in and out” Cheralyn said

A new automatic door – just $2,200 – was all it took to give Cheralyn the freedom and independence that she was craving. She now has the choice to go out and about whenever she likes and has the security of feeling safe in her own home, thanks to the generous support of AAMI – South Australian At Home Care Grant funders.