Firing up Hunter teenagers

Thursday 12th June 2008

Emma Myers is a lot like other young girls her age. She loves her family, her dogs and her friends.

The only difference is, Emma sometimes needs a little help.

Emma, 14, has cerebral palsy and for the next few months she’ll be working with a mentor to help her increase her self-esteem.

The Rothbury teenager is one of 10 young Hunter people chosen to take part in The Spastic Centre’s Ignition Mentoring program, designed to build confidence and resilience in teenagers with cerebral palsy and other disabilities.

As part of the program, Emma has been matched with a staff member from the Greater Building Society who will act as her mentor for the rest of the year.

“I’ve met with my mentor and I really like having her to talk to. Hopefully by the end of the year I’ll be able to make some new friends and build a bit more self confidence,” Emma said

Emma’s mother, Joanne Myers, said the program filled a gap in support services for teenagers living with cerebral palsy.

“When children with cerebral palsy are little there is so much around, early intervention, support . . . there is help with so much,” Mrs Myers said.

“But when the children get older everything changes and that’s why this program is so good.”

The Hunter Youth Mentor Collaborative, the region’s umbrella organisation for youth mentoring organisations, helped establish the program in the Hunter by connecting The Spastic Centre with the Greater Building Society.

THIS SUCCESS STORY IS COURTESY OF A STORY WRITTEN BY EMMA SWAINE FROM THE MAITLAND MERCURY.