In a world where genuine connections make all the difference, the story of Kaylene and Geraldine is a tale of true friendship and the commitment of Unisson. For nearly six decades, this dynamic duo has been at the heart ❤️ of Unisson’s story. Their connection to one another has blossomed, strengthened by the continuous care and dedication of their support workers throughout the years, always going the extra mile to support their connection.
Kaylene and Geraldine’s friendship dates back to the late 60s when they each joined the Lorna Hodgkinson Sunshine Home. There, they shared many happy experiences and became dear friends. From around 2000 onwards, when Unisson was transitioning clients into their own homes, it became a priority for Kaylene and Geraldine to continue living side by side. In 2005 they moved to their current home in Western Sydney and their friendship has continued to thrive.
Kaylene and Geraldine share their warm and lively home with other housemates, Susana, Norma and Mara surrounded by the genuine care and assistance from their support workers, who have become an integral part of their lives. Donna and Sue, for example, have been supporting Kaylene and Geraldine since they both began working at Unisson on the same day 14 years ago, providing an amazing continuity of support to them. Life is better together for Kaylene, Geraldine and their support crew! There’s a wonderful rapport and lots of friendly needling, as Geraldine confirms that “Donna is her favourite!” In turn, Sue says that Donna and Geraldine share a similar personality – both love everything to be tidy and its place!
Geraldine is ever ready with her signature warm smile. She loves to be socially active and her support workers are on the lookout for a great weekly adventure, like travelling to the Bowral Tulip Festival, exploring the zoo, or driving to the Blue Mountains for the day – and of course Kaylene is right by her side! Donna says, it’s about engaging with and helping our clients to find out the things they would like to do and engage in meaningful activities.
When not adventuring, Geraldine loves doing craft – and Unisson helped to nurture her creativity by facilitating her involvement in a local craft group. There, she made new friends and created a colourful series of hooked rugs, one of which now proudly adorns a wall in their home.
Kaylene exudes warmth, compassion and, according to Donna, has a beautiful aura. She is a crafting queen herself, spending hours making pom poms, and Unisson supports her by always ensuring a plentiful supply of wool at home. Donna says, “Kaylene loves to give everyone pom poms. She hangs them on everybody’s wheelchairs, on their walkers, in our cars, and we helped her to frame some as gifts.” Their home is decorated in a very personal and whimsical way with lots of pom poms, including an art installation along the veranda roof.
Both Kaylene and Geraldine share a love for singing and dancing, and this happens almost every day. Kaylene, who has a beautiful singing voice, always requests ABBA in the car, and her support workers love to oblige, enthusiastically singing along. The vehicle has now affectionately been dubbed the “ABBA van” 🚐. Last year they had a blast at the Mama Mia Musical, living out their ABBA dreams with fellow fans! According to Elisabeth, who joined the house support team a few years ago, “It’s moments like this! A dream come true for these special ladies. Seeing smiles like this, is why I love this job.”
But the story doesn’t stop there. Kaylene and Geraldine’s families are deeply involved in their lives, and Unisson’s support workers have formed strong connections with them as well. Donna, Sue and the team go above and beyond to keep Kaylene and Geraldine connected to their loved ones, organising family parties and driving to facilitate catch-ups that bring everyone together. 🎈
Our staff really dig in deep and become hugely creative in finding the YES for the people they support. Almost sixty years since they joined our community, Geraldine and Kaylene continue to flourish, with a genuine team of dedicated workers and knowing that life is definitely better together! 🌟
