Humans of Avivo – Joan’s story

Dealing with her first experience of grief changed customer Joan’s life in ways she couldn’t have imagined. 

Joan’s early years growing up in Papua New Guinea shaped her view of the world. Her memories, creativity, and values can be attributed to her upbringing and what she’s learned from older generations of her family. 

Her grandfather was a wise man and well-loved by his community. He continually showed up for others in need with small acts of kindness that were remembered and cherished, even after he died. 

Joan’s grandmother showed her what strength and resilience look like. She also instilled faith in her granddaughter and showed Joan that she could find comfort through prayer and belief, trusting that life would respond to your faith. 

As a young girl, Joan put this theory to the test. When her older brother started school, Joan would pray for her own chance to receive an education. She was fascinated by what he was learning and wanted to be involved in that world. Soon enough, she was enrolled in kindergarten, and this cemented Joan’s belief that with hope and faith, her prayers could come true. 

Australia

Joan’s life shifted dramatically in 2011 when she moved to Australia with her mother and siblings. They were reunited with her father – a man she hadn’t seen for around six years. In Joan’s young mind, she believed her father had died. In fact, he’d moved to Australia, working quietly to set up a better life for his family, laying the foundations for their future together. 

Joan embraced her new life, surrounded by her close family. 

After leaving school, Joan studied an eclectic mix of woodwork, construction, and childcare. After graduating, she found work in childcare, where she thrived. The energy, laughter, and curiosity of children brought back fond memories of her own joyful childhood. 

Later, she moved into hospitality, where the busy days and variety of tasks kept her fulfilled. From opening up the restaurant, to cooking, to customer service, Joan did it all.  

Life was full and steady. 

Grief

Then the grief arrived. 

Joan received news that her grandfather passed away just weeks after she and her mother had visited him in PNG. 

This was Joan’s first experience of loss, and her world began to unravel. She didn’t have the tools, the words, or the understanding to process grief.  

Her grandfather, who had been such an important person in Joan’s life, was suddenly gone. 

Joan couldn’t face the realities of life and without better coping mechanisms, she retreated from the world and from her job.  

She wouldn’t leave her room. She would only read books and listen to music, but wouldn’t socialise, despite her family’s best efforts to get her to connect with her friends. 

She didn’t have the words for what was happening to her, but after seeking help from a doctor, he told her what she was experiencing.  

Depression. 

For Joan, this diagnosis wasn’t a hopeless label, but a turning point. It was the moment when confusion turned into clarity and she could finally feel a sense of hope. If she knew what was causing this pain, she could take steps to get better. 

This was when Joan was introduced to Avivo. 

Joan joined Avivo’s Individualised Community Living Support (ICLS) program. This program supports people who are experiencing mental health challenges to build confidence, independence, and meaningful connections within their community.  

ICLS focuses on practical, person-centred support, meeting people where they are, and supporting them to rebuild their lives at their own pace. 

For Joan, this support became life changing. 

Adulthood

Her support team worked with Joan to navigate the often-overwhelming realities of adulthood, and the administrative demands that go with it. They accompanied her to Centrelink and housing appointments and supported her through doctor visits. 

Step by step, they helped her untangle paperwork, systems, and responsibilities that once felt insurmountable. 

One of the first major steps was moving into her own home, independent of her parents. While initially daunting, Joan knew it was required for her growth, and she now sees this as a blessing. The space gave her room to develop, reflect, regain her sense of self, and discover new confidence. 

The distance also helped repair and strengthen her relationship with her family. She now makes a conscious effort to have meaningful connections with them, rather than the fleeting interactions we often have when we know they’re always around. 

But her support was never just about completing tasks. 

Joan’s team focused on rebuilding her confidence and helping her gently re-enter the world. They listen to what she needs and follow her lead. 

Comfort zone

Initially, Joan required a little coaxing to get things done. When even a short walk outside and a chat would feel overwhelming, her team would gently and lovingly nudge her to go outside her comfort zone to explore the world. Joan would begrudgingly work with them, but would keep her head down, refusing to engage with the world and with others. 

Now, Joan will often take herself for walks and is far more motivated to get up and get moving most mornings. She’s now the first to strike up a conversation with other walkers in her suburb! 

Positive outlook

Today, Joan has a positive outlook on life and while challenges still arise, she’s not facing them alone. 

Joan’s team consists of six Support Workers who all bring something different to the table. Their own life experiences, varying ages and backgrounds offer Joan different perspectives, which has helped shape her understanding of how to engage with people and the world around her. 

Most supports are guided by Joan and what she needs on any given day. Sometimes it’s a walk and a chat, other times it might be life admin and other days, Joan wants to cook up a storm in the kitchen and her team are there to assist. 

The future looks bright.  

Joan has a goal to get her driver’s license, because she knows many jobs require you to be able to drive. This is the first major step back into employment for Joan. She’s keen to resume her work at restaurants and to see where that takes her. 

Joan also loves creating and would like to pursue construction work. She has memories of her uncles building houses in her village when she was growing up and she takes satisfaction in seeing creative endeavours come to fruition. 

Another creative outlet that Joan is working on is her memoir, filled with many childhood stories, culminating in how she’s found her way to where she is today. 

The right support

While her team say she’s a world away from the young lady they began working with, it’s hard to imagine Joan as anything other than a bubbly, welcoming young woman with a life full of potential ahead of her. 

What a difference a year, and the right support, can make. 

Her progress has been nothing short of outstanding, which is testament to Joan’s resilience and ability to continue to push herself, even when life feels tough. 

“It’s amazing the things you can do with the right support,” said Joan. “That’s the beauty of humans coming together to achieve something. My team are incredible.” 

“There’s always so much adventure with Joan,” said Support Worker Kerrie-Anne. “Every day is different. We’re so impressed and proud of how far she’s come.”