Krystal receives helping hand from QCSS

Last updated: 

24 November 2021 11:42AM  

First published: 

24 November 2021 11:38AM

Townsville mother of two, Krystal, has improved her health and increased her independence thanks to support from the Queensland Community Support Scheme (QCSS).

Krystal suffers from an autoimmune condition that limits the use of her hands and wrists. She called QCSS’ Access Point for help and was approved to receive In-home supports.

Her support worker Jenny has been helping Krystal, up to 6 hours a fortnight, for the past year.

“When I first met Krystal, she struggled to use her hands to do everyday things,” Jenny said.

“She was finding it hard to maintain her home and care for her two young children.”

Krystal says Jenny’s support has made a big difference to her ability to manage her family and household responsibilities.

“When Jenny first started helping me, I was wearing hand splints up to my elbows to rest my tendons because they had succumbed to my autoimmune condition,” Jenny said.

“One of the biggest challenges was folding clothes, something I would have previously done quickly and easily.

“With Jenny’s support, I have become stronger and rehabilitated my hands partially.

“Jenny has been a great help and is a compassionate and patient person. I am so grateful.”

Jenny says Krystal’s goal is to reduce the support she receives as her hands grow stronger.

“She still struggles with her physical condition, but she is really motivated to improve her independence and is working hard to achieve it,” Jenny said.

If you are under 65 and need a small amount of help to keep or regain your independence, the Queensland Community Support Scheme can help you continue living safely in your home and participating in your community.

Find out if you are eligible for support through the Queensland Community Support Scheme.