Stockleigh woman overcomes stage fright in bid to fulfill dream

Emily Borrett, 30, has schizophrenia and is exploring her hidden musical and social talents with support from the National Disability Insurance Scheme since January this year.

Carers Queensland put a spotlight on Ms Borrett's achievements at the Beenleigh Area Carers Queensland office as part of Queensland Mental Health Week on Tuesday, October 8.

Her mother Judy Borrett, who is former Jimboomba State School teacher, and father Kevin spoke about their family's experience with the NDIS.

Ms Borrett said the NDIS plan provided funding for essential services including an occupational therapist, psychologist, dietitian and support worker.

"Emily was at a point where her life had become very small , she was at home on her own, each day doing very little," she said.

"Emily no longer spends her days in bed as she knows the support worker will be there to help her get through the morning and prepare her for the day.

"Emily now has a team has a team of professionals behind her helping her to increase her capabilities in gaining independence and living a healthy life."

Ms Borrett said Emily had transformed into a more confident woman over the past 12 months.

"She now mixes with a wide circle of people and recently was on the news meeting the Prime minister (Scott Morrison), while they both happily iced cupcakes together during a six hour cupcake making activity," she said.

"The NDIS is a wonderful vehicle to offer improvement and independence for those people who have a disability."

Local Area coordinator Michelle Howells said it was pleasing to see the NDIS plan was changing Emily's life.

"Emily never had the social interaction or therapies she is now getting," she said.

"She is starting to become more social and is being supported to become more independent."

Carers Queensland can help people learn more about the NDIS and apply for the scheme.

For more information call 1300 999 636 or email cq.enquiries@ndis.gov.au.