Baptist Care SA News

Amy’s trauma filled young life faced a new challenge: COVID-19

Amy’s trauma filled young life faced a new challenge: COVID-19

After years under the Guardianship of the Minister, Amy* had turned 18. Our Care Pathways team helped her move interstate to be with family and friends – on what turned out to be the eve of a global pandemic.

 

In particular, Amy had been desperate to be with her beloved grandfather who was terminally ill. She was able to spend a precious few weeks with him before he passed away.

 

Always respectful and quiet, Amy had struggled to transition from 24-hour care to semi-independent living.  She’d had difficulties securing accommodation and had some serious court matters to face. With appropriate legal representation, Amy achieved a good outcome and learnt some important lessons as she prepared to make her way as an independent adult.

 

As time passed, staff became concerned that Amy’s mental health may have been compromised by her grief and by living by herself amidst COVID-19 restrictions.  They decided to check in with her and were thrilled to learn that she was coping really well. Pursuing her passion for music, Amy had written many poignant song lyrics which she happily shared. She sounded relaxed and positive.

 

Amy was delighted to receive our call and to let us know how she was going.  In her own words, she was “very chill – and you should all stay chill too.”

 

In closing, Amy said that whatever happened in your past, the important thing is that you get to decide your future and that the battle is inside yourself.

 

*name has been changed

Baptist Care SA, lives, works and walks on Kaurna, Peramangk and Boandik lands. We acknowledge Aboriginal people as the state’s first peoples, recognise their traditional ownership, and respect their cultural heritage, beliefs, deep connection and continued guardianship of land and waters. We value the contributions of Elders past and present, and are committed to learning from those emerging.