For 63-year-old Wanda Egerton, joining the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has had a profound impact on her life.
Wanda, blind from birth, has seen many changes to the disability sector over the decades she’s been connected with Vision Australia and RVIB. But since the introduction of the NDIS, things have never been better.
“The NDIS has been a life-changer for my husband and me. It’s not only changed our lives for the better but since joining the NDIS, our lives are much easier,” said Wanda.
Both Wanda and her husband are totally blind and prior to the NDIS they had to rely on friends or family members to complete daily tasks like shopping.
Now onto her second NDIS plan, those days are well behind her, and she can now do so much more on a daily basis.
“I now have somebody to take me shopping, to come to the house to do different things that I’d like doing, like checking colours, checking if things are clean and gardening,” said Wanda.
“Keeping on top of gardening was something that always concerned me and now I don’t have to worry.”
Wanda said the support she received from Vision Australia throughout the NDIS application process was helpful.
“Sitting down with my local service engagement coordinator made me confident when I went into my planning session that I knew what supports I needed and I was able to advocate for them.
“The funding I received for occupational therapy, orientation and mobility training and technology support has meant I can continue to be independent in other areas of my life.”
Wanda has one piece of advice for those considering joining the NDIS - the benefits far outweigh the potential early difficulties.
“A few people have said to me, ‘oh, it’s too hard.’ It can be hard to get started but once you get started there’s great benefits,” said Wanda.
“I tell people, give it a go. It’s so good, we benefit because at last we’re getting things that help us.”
If you’re about to start on your NDIS journey, Vision Australia can help you work through your requirements so you can know what’s available and get what you need to achieve your goals.
You can access whatever level of support you need throughout your NDIS planning process, with access to a Vision Australia staff member at any stage.
Visit the NDIS information page for more.