Transforming by Addressing the Emotional Trauma of a Challenging Life with Tim Rubin
Tim started as an IT salesman for Fujitsu, receiving a computer as payment from a cash-strapped client. This unforeseen twist sparked his interest in programming. After getting the computer, Tim self-taught programming and database skills. He used these newfound abilities to develop systems for selling scuba gear. Tim’s adventurous spirit led him into the scuba […]
A Life of Generosity & Resilience in Australia from Peru with Graciella V. Espinoza
Born in the Peruvian mountains in 1948, Graciella’s upbringing, surrounded by nine siblings and teacher parents, instilled in her strong values of resilience, community, and cultural heritage. She was educated at a St. Vincent de Paul school. To support her family, she worked in sales and representation within construction companies, showing adaptability and commitment. Married […]
Balancing a New Career & Unpaid Care while Navigating Stay-At-Home Restrictions with Leonie Mulgrew
Leonie Mulgrew married her husband Shane nearly 36 years ago. They built a life together, with Leonie working as a beauty therapist at Myer and Shane running his business. In 2021, Shane was diagnosed with stage four melanoma after a misdiagnosis. This critical moment changed their lives, leading to an extensive, 15-hour surgery and significant […]
From Hospital Administrator to Resilience & Purpose in Unpaid Care with Cheryl Harris
Cheryl Harris, is a community advocate, and former unpaid carer. She transitioned from hospital administration to volunteering and has been deeply involved in senior care and disability services. Cheryl’s life changed when her husband Ken was diagnosed with kidney disease in 1995. She navigated the complexities of dialysis and healthcare, showing immense strength and resilience. […]
A Mother’s Care and Love for a Child with Down Syndrome with Deb McNair
Deb manages each day’s start with Ella’s varying capabilities. From making breakfast to struggling to rise, her mornings are governed by Ella’s unpredictable moods and behaviours. Deb’s husband Dave, provides crucial flexible support, enabling the family to handle challenging days. Together, they prioritise self-care and navigate the complexities of their caregiving responsibilities. Strategically planning family […]
Transformation after Generational Trauma, Abuse and Addiction is possible with Alex Brandt
Alex’s parents were displaced WWII refugees from Europe, eventually moving to Australia where Alex was born in the 1960s. She faced cultural and language barriers growing up. Because she started school at eight and a half, Alex missed the early formative years. She attended irregularly, faced integration challenges, and was labelled as a slow learner. […]
The Complexities of Parenthood and the Legalities of Family Breakup with Bill Kable
Bill Kable, born in Australia, comes from a family with a rich legal heritage. As a fifth-generation descendant of Henry Kable, he grew up with a strong sense of justice. Bill pursued his education in law, following his family’s footsteps. Bill established himself as a practicing lawyer, dedicating his career to serving his clients and […]
Caring for a Partner with Dementia and for Yourself with Joe Coppi
An active IT consultant and community volunteer, Joe first noticed his wife Joyce’s memory lapses during an overseas trip. Seeking medical advice, their journey with early-onset dementia began. Seeing Joyce’s desire for a move, Joe transitioned them from Greenwood East to Geelong. Downsizing made life simpler, providing easy access to essential services and a senior-friendly […]
A Generous Life of Advocacy and Community for Men’s Mental Health with Filipe Gama e Silva
Raised in Brisbane, Filipe’s parents immigrated to Australia from Portugal, driven by the allure of “Skippy the Bush Kangaroo,” grounding his understanding of belonging and community from an early age. Filipe’s family, especially his mother, supported him through his dyslexia, teaching him resilience and fostering his self-confidence despite academic challenges. At 17, a formative trip […]
Untapped Wisdom and Potential in our Aging Population with Ian Westmoreland | Kintsugi Heroes
This episode of the Connecting Seniors podcast series, is a wide-ranging and deeply personal conversation between Ian Westmoreland, founder of Kintsugi Heroes and John Milham, Kintsugi Heroes Podcast Host. Despite his reluctance to do so, Ian acknowledges his age and reflects on the untapped wisdom and skills of seniors, advocating for their value. Ian’s perspective […]