Paula has two young sons at primary school and a two year old daughter, Olivia. She has had to raise them on her own, after her partner, an abusive alcoholic, left.

Olivia was born with a terribly severe genetic condition called CHARGE Syndrome. Her heart is defective. She can’t swallow normally. Her developmental progress is painfully slow.

From the time little Olivia arrived home from hospital, she has needed almost full time specialist medical attention. But as a mother on her own Paula was just not able to cope.

At one stage, when the situation became overwhelming for Paula she threatened to end her own life. Her children were placed in foster care. This was an extremely difficult time for her. She was deeply upset.

Around this same time Paula’s income reduced drastically. She fell behind in her rent and couldn’t pay her electricity, water or gas bills. The landlord threatened to kick her out.

To make matters worse her ex-partner returned briefly to her life and he helped himself to what little money she had.

Eventually, Paula was referred to MacKillop. One of our specially trained workers began helping her. It was tough going. Paula was so down. Progress was slow. However, little by little, things began to improve, she began to gain confidence, to grieve and to make good decisions. Eventually she asked her ex-partner to leave.

We negotiated with the landlord and helped get the essential services reconnected. As she began to get back on her feet Paula’s two boys were returned to her.

Then Paula had to make a heartbreaking decision. She realised that it was in the best interests of all her children to place young Olivia in special care. As a mum, she keeps in regular contact. But at the end of each visit, saying goodbye to Olivia is very stressful. Our staff member is always there to help her through.

There are many people like Paula that MacKillop helps. It’s never straight forward, there are very few quick fixes; its grassroots and there are always children involved.

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