Diane’s strong sense of independence has been shaped by a lifetime of caring for others. She spent decades working as a nurse, first in maternity care and then later in aged care.
After retiring in 2008, Diane returned to her hometown. “I was born in Kyabram, and I always said I'd come back home, so when I turned 58, I did. Kyabram's a wonderful town.”
Back in her hometown, Diane has remained active and engaged despite health challenges, supported by the use of mobility aids and a strong connection to her community. Her days are spent creating art, checking in on her elderly neighbour and spending time with her rescue dog, Twigs.
Diane describes herself as fiercely independent and, for a long time, she resisted the idea of having help in her home.
Over time, however, safety became a growing concern. As a longtime collector, Diane’s porcelain dolls and other cherished items had begun to limit how safely and comfortably she could move through her home.
She recalls one incident when she had to crawl from the shower to the basin, which made it clear that she needed support.
“I find it hard to get down, but I find it even harder to get up. That’s when it was becoming a bit dangerous, so I accepted the cleaning [service from VMCH].”
Before her regular home cleaning could begin, Diane undertook a broader clean through VMCH’s Hoarding and Squalor program. While the process was significant and emotionally challenging, Diane felt respected to make her own decisions and move at her own pace. This is largely thanks to support from her VMCH care partner of several years, Kathryn Ludbey-Pickens .
She now receives ongoing cleaning support through VMCH’s government‑funded Support at Home program.
“I would describe VMCH as family, caring and trustworthy,” she says. “I feel I can ring Kathryn anytime I need advice.”
Diane understands why many people delay seeking support. For her, the first step was simply starting a conversation with her GP.
Kathryn believes receiving home care services have provided Diane with emotional stability and confidence. “She remains close to her neighbours, friends and existing community which empowers her to maintain her independence,” Kathryn says.
If you would like to explore home care options, speak with VMCH’s friendly team, call 1300 698 624.