Michelle's Story
At Pearce Lodge we support people with disabilities and complex needs to make decisions about their care and live happy, independent and fulfilling lives. Michelle has been supported by the Together Trust for 2 years.
“I was just your average young mum of 2 bathing my baby daughter in 2008 when I suffered a stroke which left me unable to move or speak. Following a period without a diagnosis a nurse in intensive care noticed me blinking.”
“It was then confirmed that I had a condition called Locked-in syndrome which left my body paralysed but my mind working perfectly. I am only able to communicate by blinking. Now 12 years on I am being supported in one of the Together Trust’s homes.”
“This year COVID-19 has brought its challenges with my dad, Frank, contracting the virus and me having to be admitted to hospital with a health scare.”
“I really miss not being able to talk, go out and party like other people my age but the residential staff are all really friendly and make it feel like home. It’s helping me build a closer relationship with my parents and having my independence back allows me to do the things I love like going to music concerts and shopping.”
