Finding the right support: Graham and Joan’s story

Graham and Joane Tie live in Barjarg, where they’re enjoying a quiet chapter after living busy, full lives. Married for decades, they’ve raised two children and now have four grandchildren and a great‑grandchild. With some help at home, they’re able to stay independent and continue living the way they like. 

Joan spent her working life as a dressmaker, creating garments for well‑known Australians including Dame Pattie Menzies and Susan Lalor. But the work she finds most rewarding is designing clothing for people with cerebral palsy. “She made one for a girl’s 21st and her mother burst into happy tears,” Graham shared proudly. 

Post‑polio syndrome has shaped Graham’s life. It’s a condition that affects many people who contracted polio as children. For decades he lived with symptoms he couldn’t explain, adapting quietly and doing his best to manage. He is now an active member of the Polio Network Society, advocating for other post-polio sufferers. 

Living for so long without answers influenced the way he and Joan approached home care too. They weren’t sure what support existed, or even what might make a difference. 

When they finally reached out to VMCH, the considered approach of their first care partner, Louise, made all the difference. She talked them through everything without pressure, suggesting small changes like handrails and shower strips, and gave Graham the time to take things at his own pace.  

“She eased me in gently. Once I realised I was being silly, I said, ‘Go for it.’” 

Today, Graham and Joan receive regular home cleaning and gardening support and have benefited from the six-week restorative care program through VMCH’s Support at Home program. Their home is now safer, their daily routines easier and their children feel reassured knowing support is close by. 

Now, the couple’s current care partner, Tarrina, has also become an important part of their lives. They feel comfortable reaching out whenever for advice or support. “We only have to ask, and we always get an answer,” Graham says. He describes her support as “Bonza, the best of the best.” 

Beyond receiving Support at Home, Graham and Joane are active in the VMCH community. They’re proud supporters of VMCH’s Where Is My Coffee cafés, which provide job skills for people with disability. “It’s just great,” Joan says. “We tell everyone to go there.” 

While they understand why many people delay seeking support, for them, the first step was realising that help could keep them independent, not take it away.  

“It's very difficult for people to give up their independence,” Graham says. ‘’VMCH workers like our care partner, they ease you in.’’   

If you’re curious about how home care could support you or someone you love, call VMCH’s friendly team on 1300 698 624.