In this new series, we’re shining a spotlight on some of our Disability and Aged Care clients – affectionately known as ‘Coastlinkers’ – and the Coastlink services that help them to live their lives, their way.
In this edition, we get to know Coastlinker Andrew Stimson, who lives in the Gosford Central Ability SDA Apartments: stylish, purpose-built apartments that include access to onsite support providers to ensure tenants can live safely and independently.
Hi Andrew, and thanks so much for taking the time to chat with us today. Can you tell us a little bit about you?
I’ve lived at Shelly Beach on the Central Coast with my parents for 20 years, and my favourite place to visit is Terrigal.
After seven years of dialysis, three days per week, I finally received a kidney transplant back in 2018.
It’s now 2023 and I have not looked back; I have some normality in my life, and I’m living it to the fullest!
That must have been a tough journey, but we’re so glad you’re now able to enjoy living your life, your way. Now that you’ve got some more freedom back, what do you enjoy doing most with your spare time?
I follow the Central Coast Mariners; I am a loyal Mariners fan and have been since they started on the Central Coast. I very rarely miss a game, and I try to attend the Sydney games, too.
I do love all sports, and I really like spending time at the gym with my carers. I also enjoy going out for lunches to all different places on the Coast.
You must’ve been thrilled with the Mariners’ recent Grand Final win, too! It sounds like sport and fitness are important pastimes for you.
I’m in a wheelchair and I self-propel – I’m not in an electric wheelchair – so I like to keep fit and active at all times.
Our health is something we should all prioritise, and it’s great that our team can help you with this, too. How did you first come to be part of the Coastlink family?
I first started at Coastlink 17 years ago, and I found out about the organisation through word of mouth. I’ve been with Coastlink ever since.
I am now 56 and I have recently secured my own apartment [in Coastlink’s Ability SDA apartments at Gosford Central], and I have a lot of support from Coastlink. I moved in there in April of this year, and I love living in my new apartment.
We’re so happy you love your new home, Andrew! Moving into a new place is always such an exciting time. Based on your experience, what would you say to someone who is looking to move into a supported accommodation venue, just like you have?
I just say, go for it; you will never look back. It’s been a dream and goal of mine for a long time, and now it’s finally happened. I could not be happier. I like having the freedom to make my own choices.
That’s brilliant to hear. Do you spend much time participating in social and community activities through Coastlink, too?
I attend a Men’s Bowling Group on a Tuesday, where I get to catch up with all of my friends.
I also have some 1:1 days where I go to different places on the Coast, and occasionally, I visit Sydney if there’s a show on that I would like to see.
I love catching up with my friends that I’ve met at Coastlink, and I also like being able to choose my carers.
Freedom of choice really is so important for every individual. Congratulations again on your new home – we hope you have lots of happy memories there.
One final question to finish off: “Three words I would use to describe Coastlink would be…”
Social, entertaining and fun!
…
Coastlink is the Shared On-site Provider for the Gosford Central and Showground Road Ability SDA Apartments.
Created in partnership with specialist disability accommodation providers, Ability SDA, these 20 integrated living state-of-the-art residences are well located, safe, tech-savvy, affordable and completely accessible for people living with disability.
Want to know more? Find out about all of Coastlink’s Accommodation options, as well as our other Disability and Aged Care supports.