At United for Care, we believe that champions aren’t just found on the sports field. They’re in our teams, our communities, and in the everyday actions of those who go above and beyond.
Inspired by the spirit of the Paralympics, where resilience, determination, and achievement take center stage, United for Care is shining a light on the remarkable people in our community who inspire us every day with their outstanding passion and dedication.
Today, we’ll share three incredible stories of the champions among us, each one a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of giving back.
We hope these stories inspire you to positively affect the lives of others. Not all champions wear gold medals, and not all heroes wear capes. Remember, in ways big and small, we all have the power to make the world a better place!
Balancing Work and Study: Jodie’s Journey
Meet Jodie Millsteed, a member of United for Care’s In-Home Care team and a true champion who embodies the spirit of growth and determination. Jodie’s passion for her work drives her to be the best she can be, and that’s why she decided to pursue a bachelor's degree in Community Health while working at United for Care. Life hasn’t always been easy for Jodie – she’s faced her fair share of challenges along the way. But instead of letting those challenges hold her back, Jodie’s used them as fuel to push herself forward.
Balancing work and study is no small feat. It’s a demanding journey that requires time management, discipline, and a whole lot of grit. But Jodie’s commitment to her education and her job never wavered. With just one subject left in her first year, she’s making incredible progress. Jodie’s story is an inspiring reminder that no matter how many curveballs life throws, it’s possible to keep moving forward with commitment and passion.
When asked what keeps her motivated, Jodie says, “I love what I do, and I want to make a bigger impact. Studying while working isn’t easy, but it’s worth it because I know it will help me support the participants at United for Care even better.” Her dedication is an inspiration to us all, and her journey is a perfect example of how pursuing personal and professional growth can create a ripple effect, benefiting everyone around you.
Fundraising for a Cause: Amanda’s Dedication
Senior Business Analyst Amanda Jackson’s story is one of resilience, gratitude, and unshakeable determination. In 2019, her world was turned upside down when her husband was diagnosed with small cell lung cancer and given just 12 months to live. But thanks to the incredible care he received at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, Amanda’s husband defied the odds and now lives disease free. Inspired by the life-saving treatment her husband received, Amanda decided to give back in a big way.
Amanda’s way of giving back? Pushing herself to the limit – literally. She’s completed three City2Surf runs and even a parachute jump, raising over $8,000 for the charity that saved her husband’s life. Despite a severe ankle sprain before this year’s City2Surf race, Amanda pushed through the pain and crossed the finish line.
When asked what drives her to keep going, Amanda says, “I'm forever grateful to the Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, and there's no way I was giving up or stopping. No matter how long it took me, I was going to complete the course. I want to do everything I can to give back and help others experiencing what we went through. I’ll never stop running and jumping to fundraise for the Chris O’Brien Lifehouse.”
Amanda’s story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, we all have the power to push through the toughest times and make a positive difference. Her strength and dedication make her a true champion, and we’re proud to celebrate her achievements and strength of character.
Giving Back as a Support Worker: Tony’s Story
Tony Petrin is a man who’s always lived life on his own terms. At 36 years old, Tony has done more than many people do in a lifetime. He’s hiked through the Tasmanian bush, camped under the stars in Canada, and reeled in fish from sun-drenched lakes. Tony lives with cerebral palsy, but he decided long ago that his condition wouldn’t limit his life experiences. Today, he’s not only a Supported Independent Living (SIL) participant at United for Care’s Erskineville Vertical Village, but he’s also a support worker for the Northcott life skills program, helping others live life to the fullest.
Tony’s journey to becoming a support worker was inspired by the incredible support he received throughout his life. “I benefited so much from all those experiences,” Tony says. “They helped me grow into the person I am today, and now I want to give back.” His role as a support worker allows him to share his love for the great outdoors and help others enjoy the same adventures that shaped his life.
From exploring Sydney’s parks to taking the train to the Blue Mountains, Tony’s made it his mission to create unforgettable experiences for the people he supports. But for Tony, being a support worker is about more than just planning fun outings. It’s about making every interaction meaningful. “You might go bowling with someone, and even though you’ve done that a hundred times before, you still need to make it a meaningful experience,” Tony explains. “It’s never just another trip to the bowling lane – it’s a chance for them to develop new skills and grow as a person.”
Tony’s lived experience of cerebral palsy gives him a unique perspective and allows him to offer practical advice that others might not be able to. He says, “If somebody needs to find out about choosing disability accommodation, I’m in the perfect position to help them because I’ve been there and done that.” Tony’s role as a support worker isn’t just a job – it’s a way for him to be a role model for others living with disabilities, showing them that they too can achieve their dreams.
Celebrating the Champions Among Us
Jodie, Amanda, and Tony are just three of the many incredible people who make up the United for Care community. Their stories remind us that being a champion isn’t about breaking world records or standing on a podium. It’s about showing up every day with grit, passion, and a desire to make a difference for the people around us.
At United for Care, we’re proud to celebrate all the champions among us. Whether you’re pursuing a personal goal, supporting a participant in their journey, or simply going the extra mile in your everyday actions, you’re making a profound impact. And that’s something to be proud of.
So, let’s keep sharing our stories, inspiring each other, and striving to be everyday champions. Together, we can make a world of difference, one small action at a time.
Be an Everyday Hero Today!
Are you feeling inspired? Follow our Facebook and Instagram to hear more incredible stories of resilience and dedication.
Share your own story or the story of someone you admire, and let’s keep shining a light on the champions in our community. Together, we can encourage each other to make a profound impact and create a better world for everyone.
If you want to find out more about United for Care’s mission, or how our unique approach to Supported Independent Living helps NDIS participants reach their goals and achieve things worth shouting about, contact a member of our team today:
