CELEBRATING 30 YEARS WITH YOU
My name is Bishar (right). I am from an East African country called Somalia. I have two beautiful daughters and I live in Brisbane, Queensland. I identify as a Muslim and my religion and culture complement each other. I wouldn’t describe myself as ‘religious’, but ‘spiritual’ will do.
I came to Australia at the end of 2017, and in 2018, I had a psychotic episode at my workplace. Later that year, I was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia.
After a few hospital admissions, a referral was made to Footprints and I was matched with my current Case Manager, Maxine (left). She explained how the Recovery and Wellness Program at Footprints could assist me.
Maxine developed a 12-month step- by-step recovery plan with me, and we have worked together closely ever since. She offered me a judgement-free space and an amicable relationship as a Case Manager.
Later in the program, I needed more support and I was matched with Iris, who was a phenomenal Case Worker, and later with Farella, who is terrific a Peer Support Worker. Farella gave me guidelines to help me identify my schizophrenic triggers and this has enabled me to work through them.
I don’t see myself as a schizophrenic — I view myself as a person with schizophrenia. I am a person before any label. I believe that Footprints is an amazing organisation that is sensitive to mental health needs and diversity in our communities.
As the organisation celebrates its thirtieth anniversary of service to the community, I would like to send my heartfelt congratulations and say kudos for all they do for the community.
Download a pdf version of Bishar’s story.
