Matt
“I think it’s important for people to understand that all of us have a huge range of abilities – and some people might not have discovered theirs yet.”
In 2014, Matt suffered a severe accident that completely changed his life.
A world of opportunities.
…you see, when Matt was first put in touch with CCS Disability Action, he was in a difficult situation.
About 20 years ago, Matt suffered a serious accident which left him a quadriplegic. Matt is unable to use his legs, and only has a little use of his hands.
Of course, this means that Matt can no longer drive – and he has to rely on friends and family to take him to medical appointments, social engagements, and things like grocery shopping.
Matt told us: “I am completely reliant on other people to do everything I was used to doing for myself. You quickly feel like you’ve become a burden on your family. It’s incredibly hard, in every way you can think of.”
Tragically, we know that many disabled people have felt this way, like they’ve lost their independence, like they’re a burden…
…and it shouldn’t be this way.
Fun in the water captured on drone camera.
Through CCS Disability Action, Matt was put in touch with Steve, one of our Senior Service Coordinators. As we do for all the people we support – Steve took the time to listen carefully and respectfully to what Matt’s unique challenges and specific needs were.
Transport was clearly a big hindrance, so Steve arranged for two support workers to take Matt wherever he needs (and wants) to go, three times a week.
With this simple (and life-changing) service, Matt now has back some of the independence and freedom he’d lost due to his accident.
Matt is deeply grateful, and says: “I haven’t been able to do my own shopping since my accident. It’s great. To have the freedom to be able to go where I want, when I want; it’s awesome.”
Suddenly a whole world of possibilities opened up for Matt… You see, Matt is a very talented photographer, and uses drone technology to take some truly incredible photos.
Recently, the Pātaka Art + Museum offered to give Matt a solo exhibit to showcase his photography. Matt really wanted to make the most of this opportunity, but he worried that his collection of photos wasn’t up to scratch.
Thanks to the amazing support of our donors, Matt realised he could now travel all over the region (with the enthusiastic help of his support workers) – enabling him to get the perfect shots for the exhibit.
Matt in his element.
It wasn’t easy – Matt had to juggle shifting light, angles, tides and of course, Wellington’s gusty winds – but he was determined…
… and we’re thrilled to tell you that Matt’s exhibit was a complete success!
We’re overjoyed for Matt – and he told us that he’s already looking to pursue more business opportunities in the future!
Matt says: “I think it’s important for people to understand that all of us have a huge range of abilities – and some people might not have discovered theirs yet.”
Matt is absolutely right. Every disabled person has value, enormous potential, and so much to offer our society – but there are still many barriers that stand in their way.
A caring gift today will give disabled people like Matt respectful and mana-enhancing support, and help them live their life to the full. So please, will you hurry in your gift today?
CCS Disability Action is dedicated to breaking down barriers and ensuring that disabled people can live with dignity, independence, and opportunities to thrive. The organisation works tirelessly to provide tailored support to individuals, addressing their unique needs and empowering them to achieve their goals. Whether it’s helping with transportation, arranging access to essential services, or fostering connections within the community, CCS Disability Action is there to make a meaningful difference.
A great example of this is Matt’s story. After a life-changing accident left him a quadriplegic, Matt found himself grappling with the loss of independence and feeling like a burden on his family. Through CCS Disability Action, Matt was connected with Steve, a Senior Service Coordinator who took the time to understand his challenges. One major hurdle for Matt was transportation, so CCS Disability Action arranged for support workers to assist him in getting to medical appointments, social outings, and wherever he wanted to go. This service restored a sense of freedom that Matt thought he had lost forever.
With his newfound independence, Matt was able to reconnect with his passion for photography. Using drone technology, he captured stunning images that led to his own solo exhibit at the Pātaka Art + Museum – a testament to his creativity and determination. Matt’s story illustrates how the support provided by CCS Disability Action goes beyond practical assistance; it helps individuals rediscover their potential and pursue their dreams.
Every person has unique talents and contributions to offer, and CCS Disability Action is committed to helping disabled people unlock their capabilities. By supporting their work, you play a role in creating an inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to live their life to the fullest. Together, we can eliminate barriers, foster independence, and celebrate the immense value that disabled people bring to our communities.