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Francine Pollard has overcome many challenges throughout her life, maybe more than most.
With two life-threatening health scares, and a difficult mental health diagnosis, Francine has been thrown curveball after curveball, but with Asuria’s help, she’s turned her circumstances around.
Francine's journey with Asuria began in March 2021, and at 52 years old, Francine had been unemployed for 19 years.
The last time Francine was employed, she was 33 years old and working as a Teacher's Aide, helping students with disabilities.
Francine loved her job and didn't see anything getting in the way of her career until she suffered a stroke, resulting in temporary memory loss and the ability to adequately walk and talk.
After a year of intense physiotherapy, occupational and speech therapy, Francine recovered, but could not return to work as a Teacher's Aide.
Years later, Francine was in the hospital again, struck down with the Swine Flu. Francine was left on life support and was told by doctors that she would never walk again.
Despite the odds, she recovered, but her mental health slowly declined after a toxic, long-term relationship ended.
At 50, Francine felt that she was at rock bottom and was diagnosed with bipolar disorder after receiving treatment for her mental health.
After all the hardship, Francine found herself needing to be independent for the first time in years. She was in a new suburb and needed to learn how to pay bills, make new friends, and secure employment.
When Francine met with Asuria Disability Employment Services (DES) Mentor Cass, at our West Gosford site, she opened up about her circumstances, and Cass helped her imagine what her future could look like with the help of Asuria.
After going through her medical and employment history, Cass recognised that Francine already had the qualification to work in Aged Care and just needed to update her First Aid training and a few checks and certificates.
Before starting to job search, Cass went through interview techniques and helped Francine build her confidence. While on the side, Francine took the initiative to learn basic computer skills online to elevate her job prospects.
"My mental health was a mess, and I didn’t know I needed a job to start with, but Cassandra was my driving force. I didn’t think I could do anything, but she believed in me, and I believed in her," said Francine.
Shortly after, Francine had an interview at Nextt Aged Care, where she successfully became a Support Worker.
It wasn’t always a smooth transition into working, as it was hard for Francine to adjust to a work/life balance. To get her through it, Cass implemented a lot of motivational work which included developing Francine’s organisational skills and time management.
Since meeting Cass and finding employment, Francine is in control of her career and health and has secured a second aged care job. She has also connected with multiple community groups including stroke support and bible study.
With two secure jobs, a support network of health professionals, community groups and Asuria's Disability Mentor Cass’ ongoing guidance, Francine has all but turned her life around.
"I've had to take back my life, and the job saved my life; it’s a sad statement to say, but it’s the truth."
"I’ve always cared for other people; and I get up, I go to work, and I do my job, and I do my job very well. It’s given me more stability and it’s made me happier, a lot happier than I was," said Francine.
Most recently, Francine was honoured to be a finalist at this years National Employment Services Association (NESA) Award for Excellence.
Francine was one of three in the running to take home the NESA Achiever of the Year Award, which recognises a former job seeker who has overcome extraordinary disadvantages to achieve employment.
While Francine didn’t come home the winner, she attended the NESA Awards at the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, and received a prestigious Award Trophy which commemorates her triumph over her disadvantages.
"I hadn't worked since I was 33 years old, but if I can do it, anyone can."
Asuria is immensely proud of Francine for overcoming her barriers and securing fulfilling employment she loves.
If you have a disability, injury, or health condition and would like assistance in preparing, finding and keeping a job, than Asuria's can help you.
Check out our Disability Employment Services here to find out more!
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