It was meant to be a fresh start for Michael and his partner of 10 years, Michele. It was 2020. The couple had only been living in their house on the NSW Central Coast for a short time when they got COVID-19. Michele only had one lung and other health issues. She died four days later.
Stricken with grief, Michael became a recluse.
“We had been together for 10 years and knew each other for a long time before that,” Michael said.
“We had been the carer for Michele’s grandson for a number of years. She was a very good woman.”
Michael’s brother is a social worker in Sydney. He had someone from his team start to work with Michael.
“It took a long time. That didn’t make me instantly get out of the house. But I got counselling. I started to make lists the night before of things to try and achieve the next day.”
“My brother still rings me. If I didn’t have him, I don’t know where I would be.”
This year, Michael has been able to start to really turn things around. He started looking for work, applying for between 50 and 100 jobs a week at one stage. Without formal qualifications and certificates, he struggled to get full-time work.
“I have a great job at Gosford Stadium – bar work and setting up and cleaning up on game days. I really like it. I was also helping to clean up houses ready for repair after an insurance claim has been approved. But that work is not regular and has dried up a bit. Neither job can offer me full-time work.”
As someone who battled addiction in his youth, Michael said it was very tempting to turn back to substances to cope with his grief. He has honoured a promise he made to Michele that he would not go back.
Michael started to go back to the Meeting Place on the Central Coast. The community hub is part of Home in Place’s wraparound support services for its tenants. There, Michael would speak to Community Participation Officer Jenene.
“Jenene was always there for me. Even when Michele passed, she was there with food baskets. She’s got a good heart, that woman.”
Jenene said, “It’s been an absolute pleasure getting to know and support Michael on his journey. Michael has been so driven to achieve and should be so proud of his achievements.”
A major turning point for Michael was Jenene connecting him with Wesley Mission. Through their Opportunity Pathways program, Michael received assistance with funding for crucial items that helped remove barriers to work. He was supported with a Photo ID, Police Check, Opal fares, a new phone and recharges, fuel vouchers, workwear, a replacement White Card, an RCG course, as well as costs associated with obtaining his driver’s license, including the Driver Knowledge Test, Learner’s Permit, Hazard Perception Test, driving lessons, and test package. With this support, Michael successfully obtained his Provisional License, increasing his independence and job opportunities.
“I couldn’t have done it without Wesley Mission. Going for your learner’s permit, driving lessons, doing the test, getting your license – every step costs money, and I just couldn’t afford it.”
Michael has remained committed to employment, securing two roles in the venues and hospitality industry. His dedication and reliability have been recognised by his employer, and he has now been put forward for a team leader position—a significant achievement that reflects his progress and leadership potential.
Michael’s focus now is getting more qualifications and full-time work.
One of Michael’s key goals is to purchase a car, which will further enhance his ability to maintain stable employment and independence.
Michael’s other goal is to be reunited with his children. He has always been hesitant to go through the family justice system. With the support of Wesley Mission Opportunity Pathways and encouragement from Jenene and his brother, Michael has connected with Relationships Australia to start mediation.
“My kids are 13, 11, and 9. I have missed a part of their lives, and I don’t want to miss anymore.”
Michael said getting over Michele’s death has been a very slow process. He is keeping his head up and will keep going.
