Celebrating Achievements Of People With Disability

Stacey (left) with TURSA’s Tracy White

TURSA staff members, clients and community members gathered across a number of locations between Forster and Noosaville this week in recognition of the 25th anniversary of the International Day of People with Disability. The morning tea celebration is all about raising public awareness and acknowledgement of people with disability as well as celebrating their achievements and contributions.

This year’s theme is “Transformation towards sustainable and resilient society for all”. It aims to remove barriers for 4.3 million Australians living with disability. TURSA is proud to assist in overcoming barriers and empowering people with disability, injury or health condition to find and maintain sustainable employment. TURSA is committed to contributing to a community that creates equitable opportunities for everyone.

Creating a disability confident environment is incredibly important. TURSA appreciates and thanks everyone who joined us this week to help raise awareness as well as celebrate some well-earned success stories of our community members, like Stacey’s inspiring story.

Stacey was diagnosed with meningitis at just 10 months of age, although she was able to overcome the illness, the infection left her profoundly deaf from a very young age. Stacey learned to lip read in order to aid her communication, then two years ago, made the life-changing decision to undergo cochlear implant surgery.

The procedure not only dramatically improved Stacey’s ability to hear but also had a substantial impact on her quality of life and self-confidence. Subsequently she decided it was time to get back into the workforce by participating in a Work for the Dole project organised by TURSA at Loaves and Fishes.

Stacey’s hard work and commitment was rewarded when she was offered a permanent position, she has since moved into her current role as a Manager at the food distribution business.

TURSA played a crucial role in supporting Stacey’s transition towards employment by facilitating her provisional driver licence as well as her Forklift licence. “When I first registered with TURSA, I really wanted to work but I was also very shy and scared after having been out of work for over 10 years. The work experience at Loaves and Fishes gave me the chance to get back into the workforce and feel part of a team that supports and helps each other. I cannot thank TURSA enough for supporting me all the way through and Loaves and Fishes for giving me this great opportunity. I love my job and working for a company that provides food parcels for people in need,” said Stacey.