After five years of battling on behalf of her grandson, a Nowra woman has breathed a sigh of relief.
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In June, Rachel* spoke out to the South Coast Register about her fears that, without support for his mental health issues, her eight-year-old grandson was on a path that would lead to prison.
Her grandson had been diagnosed with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), ADHD, anxiety, depression, and symptoms of emerging psychosis.
Despite medication and therapy, his behaviour at school led to a number of suspensions, and she was unable to get him the support he needed.
Now, the Department of Education has agreed to fund a teacher's aide to work with him at school - and Rachel says she has been overwhelmed by the number of people who have come out of the woodwork to support the family.
"We've had some really good results," she said.
"DoCs has said they may be able to provide an occupational therapist to work with him in the home. Waminda has supported me, and the AMS.
"Tara from Cullunghutti has asked the department if they can provide a support worker in the school as well."
Rachel encouraged any families facing the same challenges to speak up.
"After five years of fighting for every little thing, a lot of pain, a lot of hurt and a lot of sorrow, to see the support that is coming is just amazing," she said.
"I know it's scary to take the journey, but if you want something desperately for your child, speak out, because there are people out there who will support them."
*Names have been changed.