Matthew, 22

Mat was diagnosed at 1 ½ with a Global Developmental Delay. A year later, he received an ASD diagnosis and thanks to his dedicated parents who had extensively researched treatment options, he started on an intensive ABA program with ISADD soon after diagnosis. Being 20 years ago, Mat was one of ISADD’s first few clients and he has remained a very special client right up until this very day.

Mat was considered non-verbal at the time of diagnosis and over his first 2 years of intervention he learnt to communicate and use spoken language. Sadly, in his first year of therapy, Mat’s Mum passed away. Life changed dramatically and Mat’s Dad took on all elements of therapy along with getting Mat prepared for kindergarten. Being in a mainstream schooling environment has always remained an integral part of Mat’s social development and he was fortunate to have some amazing Education Assistants, one particularly who remained with Mat for several years. Mat graduated from Melville Primary School in year 7 and he then attended Leeming High School where he accessed education support programs that ultimately prepared him for employment and increased community participation. After graduating from high school, he was able to access a part time employment program.

Mat’s intervention has changed over time depending on his needs. Life skills and independence took precedence as Mat became older and have played a major role in his latest transition in life. Over recent years he has spent time at Rocky Bay’s Beach House which has also helped to increase his independence away from home.

Mat has a love of sport and plays footy in winter and cricket in summer. He has a team of support workers who have assisted in keeping him active in the community, something that can be stressful for Mat from time to time.

With assistance from support workers and coordination of funding on behalf of My Place, he has been able to move into his own home. We all work together to fine tune skills and work towards increased independence. Mat works part time cleaning barbeques, he cooks and prepares his own meals, he does a weekly shop, he cleans his house, he makes phone calls and organises his time amongst cricket training, cricket matches and his own down time watching Fox Sports.

Well done Mat on your success and a special thanks to MyPlace and all of Mat’s support workers who have developed a special bond with Mat and provide companionship above all else.