For Richard, life took a sharp turn in 2016 when he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. This diagnosis not only affected his health but also altered the trajectory of his life. "I lost my dream job, and my marriage broke apart," Richard recounts.
Seeking refuge from the financial pressures of living in the city, Richard relocated to the Central Coast. But even there, the challenges persisted, leading to two cardiac events amidst the growing physical and cognitive toll of Parkinson’s.
Fighting for a Fresh Start
The journey to a happier and more stable life was not easy. Richard found himself stuck in a hospital for many months, battling for support funding. “I was rejected twice for National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and Disability Support Pension (DSP) funding,” he shares. “It left me with nowhere to go.” St Vincent’s Hospital wasn’t willing to discharge Richard unless he was able to move into supported accommodation.
Richard’s perseverance eventually paid off, as he finally secured NDIS support. This was a pivotal moment as it introduced him to Zeek, a dedicated Support Coordinator who helped Richard transition to United for Care’s Petersham property.
“When I moved to Petersham, I’d been through a very turbulent period in my life. The support staff gave me the safe and stable environment I needed to build myself back up again. For the first time in a long time, I felt secure,” Richard explains.
The Power of Support and Positivity
With the backing of United for Care’s team, Richard began to look forward. “I started to feel like I was regaining control over my life, which is what the NDIS is all about,” he notes. Although there were still good and bad days, the constant encouragement from the team helped Richard retain a sense of optimism.
United for Care’s ambition and growth also inspired Richard. Watching the organisation expand, he noticed a new property opening in Randwick. “It’s in the Eastern Suburbs, which is a beautiful part of Sydney, and I felt like it was the perfect spot to relocate to,” Richard shares. The move was another step forward, bolstered by the strong relationships he formed with the support staff there.
Rediscovering Roots in Cremorne
Richard’s journey didn’t stop in Randwick. When another new property opened in Cremorne, a neighbourhood tied to his past, he decided to make the move. “I’ve got a connection to the North Shore. I’ve lived here in the past and always wanted to move back. It’s nice to stay in touch with your roots.”
Cremorne proved to be the haven Richard had long sought. “Finally, I’ve found somewhere where I’m content to be for the foreseeable future,” he reflects. “The property feels like home. It’s very comfortable and inviting and doesn’t feel like an institution at all.”
Richard has enjoyed the fresh start of living in a new property with a newly assembled team, saying “It’s exciting to be part of something that’s growing from the ground up.”
Ainslie, the service leader, stands out to Richard as someone deeply invested in the community’s growth. “She’s very creative in finding ways to keep us engaged and makes everyone feel like they’re part of building a culture.”
Building Strength Through Activity
These days, physical activity plays a vital role in Richard’s life. With tailored support, he participates in weekly boxing classes specifically designed for people living with Parkinson’s. “Within about three months, all my symptoms improved remarkably,” he says with pride. Regular swimming in the summer and daily walks around the North Shore have also become part of his routine.
“The team helps keep me active and entertained,” Richard adds, sharing trips to the cinema or grabbing a coffee with support staff. These activities are more than just diversions—they’re lifelines that reinforce his happiness and well-being.
A Renewed Sense of Ambition
As Richard builds his life in Cremorne, his goals have begun to expand. “At this stage, it’s becoming increasingly important for me to feel like there’s value in what I do with my life,” he explains. Inspired by a friend in the US who became an advocate after her Parkinson’s diagnosis, Richard is exploring similar possibilities.
“I started writing a blog years ago called Richard of Oz. It’s about life with Parkinson’s, and now I’m thinking of adjusting it to focus more on advocacy,” he reveals. Living in a supportive environment, Richard’s regaining his sense of ambition and becoming an advocate is a goal he feels ready to pursue.
Richard says, “I have to accept my condition, which means acknowledging there are some limitations, but at the same time there are plenty of possibilities. These days, I’m trying to focus on what I can do. There’s still lots to play for.”
Looking to the Future
Reflecting on his journey with United for Care, Richard speaks warmly about the heart of the organisation: “I’ve met so many members of staff at United for Care, up to and including the CEO, and there’s an ethos of kindness and positivity that shines through the whole company.” With this foundation, he finally feels supported to live life on his terms.
“There have been periods in my life when it was hard to envision good times,” he admits. But now, surrounded by the right support, he’s feeling more and more optimistic about what the future holds. With the determination, strength of character, and fighting spirit Richard has shown until this point, anything seems possible.
Start Your Journey with United for Care
Richard’s story is just one of many incredible journeys made possible through the safe, supportive, and empowering environment we create at United for Care. Here, independence isn’t just a goal—it’s a reality, and dreaming big is a must.
If Richard’s journey inspires you, or if you’re seeking a support provider that truly puts you first, we’re ready to help. Reach out to a friendly member of our team today and take the first step towards the life you deserve.
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