Life Before the Accident
Before her injury, Amanda lived a vibrant and active life. She worked as an accountant, enjoyed Friday evening drinks with colleagues, rode her bike along the beach, and took annual overseas trips with friends. Independent and socially engaged, she loved her routine and the freedom it offered.
The Day Everything Changed
One evening, while walking home from work, Amanda was the victim of a hit-and-run incident. She was struck by a car while crossing the road and sustained a severe Acquired Brain Injury (ABI).
The impact on her life was devastating.
Amanda’s speech, mobility, coordination, vision, and memory were all significantly affected. Following months of inpatient hospital rehabilitation, she could no longer live independently. She moved in with her parents and required 24/7 care, which led to deep feelings of isolation and loss.
Enter the NDIS: A Turning Point
Amanda’s journey took a hopeful turn when she received her NDIS plan. With funding for essential supports — including a coordinator, physiotherapy, occupational therapy (OT), and speech therapy — her recovery began to gain momentum.
“I’ve regained a lot of movement and speech capabilities I was told I may never get back,” she says.
Therapy sessions, both at home and in the community, gave Amanda the chance to practice her skills in real-world settings, leading to improvements in both her physical ability and confidence.
Regaining Independence, One Step at a Time
With support workers assisting her with transport and community access, Amanda slowly began to reconnect with the world around her.
She now:
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Uses public transport independently
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Rides an adapted bike
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Volunteers two days a week at a disability charity
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Engages in social activities using technology with help from her OT
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Is planning to live independently in her own unit
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Is even preparing for a part-time return to accounting work
“The NDIS Has Been Life-Changing”
“The NDIS has been life-changing,” Amanda says.
“With funding and coordinator support to access ongoing therapies, aids, and home care, I’ve gone from relying entirely on my elderly parents to now finally getting my independence back.”
Amanda’s story is a testament to what’s possible when NDIS support is tailored to the individual — their goals, their passions, and their future.
Final Thoughts
Acquired Brain Injury can change everything — but with the right supports, recovery and transformation are possible. Amanda’s experience shows how the NDIS helps people not just survive, but thrive.
If you or someone you know is living with an ABI and navigating the NDIS, know that you’re not alone. With providers like Desire Health, you can access personalised, compassionate care designed around you.
👉 Contact Desire Health to learn how we can help you or your loved one live with greater confidence, independence, and joy.
0412-110-008