Jason joins L'Arche Brisbane

“ Our frantic family life had always surrounded Jason, who is our middle child. He has multiple disabilities and as he grew in age and size it became exhausting just looking after his daily needs. As his parents and carers, we became exhausted. After 20 years of 24 hour caring for him, we felt that there was no “Light at the end of the Tunnel “ of our existence, and we were at our lowest point physically and emotionally.

Jason was then offered a home at “Treetops” at Bardon, by L’Arche. This offer came at the time of our greatest need. It was very ironic that the child that we thought would never have the chance to become independent of us, was the first one to be able to do so. We greatly appreciate what L’Arche has done and continue to do for Jason. It was a miracle, and the answer to our prayers, as we would never have been happy unless we knew that Jason was surrounded by a very caring community who would support and love him for who he is, as we do."

Jason loves going home to “Treetops” after his visits to us, and has developed great relationships with his housemates, and many of his carers. He has had many more opportunities to meet new people, and experience new things since moving into “Treetops” than he would ever have had being domiciled with us. It’s a dream come true for him and us. “

Leigh and Alan Palethorpe
Jason's parents

A L'Arche Brisbane Celebration

top

Anthony and Marilynne

Anthony at Work

Flying back to Brisbane from Canberra recently, the plane was delayed. I was sitting together with two other community members and a core member from Morningside, Anthony Scott.

It was late at night and while the three of us were tired and therefore being quiet, ready to fall asleep, Anthony was very excited about the flight. As we were not talking much, he engaged people sitting around us and got talking to a farmer. This farmer was very happy because it had just been raining on his property and was pleased to be able to tell Anthony about this.

A little later, about 10 pm at night, Anthony started talking to a woman sitting next to me. He told her 'I sing opera'. She asked me if he really did sing opera, I replied, 'I know he sings'. Anthony then asked her if she would like him to teach her how to sing opera. She looked at me and asked 'what should I do'. I asked her if she would like to learn to sing opera. She said yes and so in the middle of this quiet airport lounge, there was suddenly a booming baritone opera rendition. We all had a laugh and everyone was happy.

An example of how an individuals vitality draws people into conversation and then into community in extraordinary ways.

Richard Warner

top

Morningside Household

Su and Sheena