News

Respite for us, fun for him
Thu, Jan 10 2008

When a member of the VPCS team arrives every Saturday and Wednesday afternoon to take Michael out, it’s good for everyone.

The rest of the family gets a break, and Michael, who is 16 and has autism spectrum disorder, has a great time out and about.

“He really is a social butterfly,” said his mum Bonnie. “He really loves having that one-on-one attention.”

Andrew and Sam take Michael out swimming and for lunch. Occasionally they also go out on a day trip – to Puffing Billy, for instance, or the Melbourne Zoo.

“It’s a chance for Michael to develop his social skills and independence, and it encourages him to do something physical,” said Bonnie.

The excursions give the family some respite from caring for Michael. It means Bonnie can work on weekends, and it means dad Tom and sister Kate can have some quality time together. The family can live life their way.

“VPCS have done their best to accommodate our needs and they are very approachable – I know I can always phone them to discuss things.”