One step at a time: Cassandra’s story
by Kat Rowe | August 17, 2023
Ever wondered what it’s like to be part of Stride’s support network?
Over five years, Cassandra worked with Recovery Coach, Jane Brow, at Stride’s previous Bathurst location. From her first visit until today, Cassandra had the support to make incremental and meaningful changes to gain a more positive outlook on life.
This is Cassandra’s story of courage and consistency. It was a privilege to stride alongside Cassandra, guiding her to create the bright future she envisioned for herself.
The first step
After relocating from Sydney to Bathurst, Cassandra struggled to leave her home. She was unwell for a long period of time, unable to socialise, engage with the community or attend appointments.
After many attempts from Stride to contact Cassandra, she finally agreed to come to the Stride Bathurst office to attend our Women’s Group.
A very nervous and anxiety-filled young woman came through the door, sweating and reserved. The other women in the group made Cassandra feel welcome and reassured her that she was on the right path.
From there Cassandra began one-on-one sessions with Jane, and this is where the story takes a happy turn.
Setting and achieving goals
Over time Cassandra built trust with the Stride team and became more goal oriented, setting herself long and short-term aspirations and working hard to achieve them.
She started attending all group sessions and was a great asset during these sessions as her positive outlook influenced other clients to achieve the same. outlook.
Rejoining the community
As the years passed, Cassandra’s consistency and determination began to reap its rewards. She was able to go grocery shopping in-store rather than online, sit in a cafe and have a coffee, catch public transport on her own, and attend most appointments.
She even started walking to complete her daily errands rather than getting someone to pick her up. By making a small but positive adjustment to her daily routine like walking she managed to lose 40kgs and feel more confident in the world.
Gaining and maintaining employment
As her confidence built, Cassandra expressed to Jane that she’d like to volunteer in the community with the hope of gaining new employment one day.
She was offered a role volunteering at a cafe and cleaning for two hours a week. She embraced the opportunity without hesitation.
Later down the track, the cafe extended its business to include a florist. Cassandra had made such an impression on the business that they offered her a job at the florist and a chance to become a barista at the cafe.
Where is Cassandra today?
Cassandra has just completed her RSA/RCG and is now a qualified Barista. She’s also on her way to gaining set hours and regular days of employment.
When reflecting on her experience, Cassandra told Jane that her progress was “all because of Stride and how they supported me”. Jane assured her that it was her hard work and persistent attitude that got her this far.
“It took Jane and Stride to believe that I could do it,” Cassandra insisted.
And that’s all it takes sometimes, someone to believe in you and your potential. That’s why Stride exists; to help Australians strive towards a better tomorrow.
Want to learn more about Recovery Coaching and how it can help you or someone you love? We’ve collated everything you need to know in this blog, so you too can access the support you need to live the life you want.
You can find additional help and guidance through our therapeutic support and support coordination services. Want more information? Get in touch with our team by calling us on 1300 00 1907 or send us an email at hello@stride.com.au.