A place to belong
Felicity is an aspiring artist, cat lover, chocolate aficionado, shopping enthusiast and devotee of the Deadpool movie franchise. She also has Williams syndrome.
While her disability can sometimes make life a little harder to manage, 23-year-old Felicity is grateful to have the team from Carinity Bunderra by her side.
“I’m so happy with the support I receive as the workers really know who I am and are friendly and caring; they’re like family to me,” Felicity said.
For the past five years, Bunderra has been a home away from home for Felicity and a lifeline for achieving a sense of independence.
Located in Boonah in the Scenic Rim, Bunderra offers a range of disability supports including social and life skills groups, community access, in-home assistance and respite.
Felicity said she enjoys participating in cooking and art and crafts at her weekly group activities, but she likes one-on-one supports the best.
“My favourite worker here is Marnie, because she’s my biggest supporter and she helps me through the hard times.
“I can get anxious around new people, but Marnie shows me that everything will be okay. We have a special connection.
“I was bullied a lot in school for being different, but at Bunderra I am accepted for who I am. Everyone here is so sweet and protective – I love them.”
When Bunderra recently expanded its respite offering with the construction of a purpose-built house in the neighbouring town of Kalbar, Felicity was one of the first people to experience the new short-term accommodation.
“I’m so excited when I have the chance to stay overnight at Sunflower House because it gives my parents a break and allows me time to have my own space.
“I get my own comfortable room and it’s so peaceful. I love when the workers say goodnight to me, as it makes me feel safe and happy.”
When asked what her life would be like if she didn’t have the support of Carinity, Felicity said she would be sad and lonely.
“I think I would just stay in bed all the time, feeling like a burden, but instead I have a purpose. This really is the best place you could ever go.”
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