Chloe

An inspirational speaker in the making, Chloe made an incredible impact at Rocky Bay’s staff training day in early January, presenting to the large group to bring awareness of Williams syndrome, which affects only 1 in 7,500 to 20,000 people worldwide, including Chloe.

Chloe’s Disability Support Worker, Carmel Olsen, has been a big part of her progress, guiding her though her ongoing issues with anxiety by creating techniques for her to try to help overcome anxiety. Carmel has also supported her on various social outings aimed at growing her confidence to present including weekly outings and monthly catch-ups with groups of friends.

“We’re much more focused on Chloe’s goals and what she wants to achieve and thinking of ways we can do that,” says Carmel.

The two years that Chloe has been a Rocky Bay customer and worked on her life skills and personal growth has seen her confidence grow immensely.

“To go back to the young girl Chloe was two years ago and to see what’s she’s doing now, it is mind blowing,” says Community Transition Team Leader, Abby McLennan.

“She’s taken accountability for her personal and professional development, and she’s putting things in place to move forward and to improve every aspect of her life.

Chloe’s goal is to continue presenting her story to audiences, particularly to those who live with a disability, and Rocky Bay are currently looking at opportunities to her reach this goal.

When asked what she would say to someone who lives with a disability who is thinking of taking part in Leeuwin’s Ultimate Challenge Voyage, Chloe is very encouraging.

“Definitely give it a try, you don’t know that you won’t like it until you try. It gives you more confidence in yourself…just do your best and do whatever you can,” she said.

Chloe said her confidence in herself has definitely grown since stepping of the STS Leeuwin II, and that it was the support of those closest to her that gave her that extra push to take on the challenge.

“I want to thank my friends and family, I couldn’t have done this without them and their support. And Rocky Bay’s support has been incredible.”

To find out how the Community Transition team can help you or your loved one, contact our friendly Customer Engagement team on 6282 1900. Click here to gift a wish to a Rocky Bay customer as part of Rocky Bay’s Wishing Tree.