When collaboration and compassion come together, lives are transformed. This has certainly been the case for Angela, whose journey over the past year demonstrates the power of partnership between MADEC and Allied Therapeutic Services (ATS) in creating meaningful change for people in our community.
Angela came into MADEC’s care in October 2024 after being discharged from Mackay Base Hospital. At that time, she did not have a suitable wheelchair, a vital piece of equipment for her mobility and daily independence. Due to various constraints, obtaining the right wheelchair proved challenging, leaving Angela with limited ability to attend community and allied health appointments.
For many months, Angela relied on Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) transport to reach her medical appointments. This significantly restricted her independence and made it difficult for her to participate in everyday community life, something many of us take for granted.
Recognising this, Mandy Brown, Senior Occupational Therapist and Mackay Hub Clinical Lead at Allied Therapeutic Services (ATS), worked closely with Angela over the following year. Together, they trialled several wheelchairs to find the right fit but faced ongoing barriers that made securing one difficult.
Then, in September 2025, a breakthrough came. Mandy contacted Fiona Richmond, Angela’s NDIS Service Coordinator at MADEC, to share some exciting news; a wheelchair had been donated to ATS, and she hoped it might finally be the solution Angela needed. Mandy arranged a visit to conduct a trial, and the results were outstanding.
The trial was a success, and ATS was able to officially donate the wheelchair to Angela. Mandy continues to support her alongside other allied health professionals to ensure any adjustments can be made for ongoing comfort and mobility.
Reflecting on the outcome, Mandy Brown said: “It’s been wonderful to see Angela’s progress and her growing confidence with her new wheelchair. Having access to the right equipment makes such a difference; it’s not just about mobility but participation, confidence, and connection. We’re so pleased to see her independence flourish.”
The impact on Angela’s life has been profound. For the first time in many months, she can attend her own medical appointments, reconnect with her community, and plan family visits without relying on emergency transport. This newfound mobility has reignited her sense of self, confidence, and inclusion.
MADEC CEO, Jasmine Lowry, said the outcome was a wonderful example of what can be achieved when organisations work together with a shared purpose.
“We’re incredibly grateful to Mandy and the team at Allied Therapeutic Service for their collaboration and generosity in finding a solution for Angela,” Jasmine said. “This partnership demonstrates how, by working together, we can remove barriers and create real, positive change in people’s lives.”
As Fiona Richmond, Angela’s NDIS Service Coordinator, shared: “It has been incredibly rewarding working alongside Angela and her Occupational Therapist to achieve this goal. Seeing her smile as she regained her independence reminded us why we do what we do.”
MADEC’s mission is to support people to live independently and participate fully in their communities, and stories like Angela’s highlight how vital partnerships are in making that happen. Through the combined efforts of MADEC and ATS, Angela’s life has changed for the better, not just through equipment, but through care, connection, and commitment.
At MADEC, we are proud to have been part of Angela’s story, and we remain committed to supporting more individuals like her to achieve greater independence, confidence, and inclusion in their everyday lives.
Supported Independent Living with MADEC
At MADEC we can assist with a range of Supported Independent Living (SIL) needs, including transition planning and applying for SIL supports through the NDIS. Get in touch today to discuss how MADEC can help you achieve independence.
