Our success is dependent upon the collective energy and intelligence of our team members. Finding fulfillment from our jobs is a key reason we are successful at Extensions to Life. We promote safe work environments where motivated team members can flourish and reach their highest potential. No matter how long a person has worked or plans to work with us, each and every team member is a valued contributor. [L to R back row] Melanie Brougham, Bill Gerow, Marie Buzan
[L to R front row] Francis Dick, Rachel Hunter
The date 25th of March, 2000 was a turning point in my life. My world changed in an instant and I was to start a journey that eventually overwhelmed my soul. On that day my only son had an horrific car accident that left him severely brain damaged. While dealing with that trauma I was taken into a world that I never knew existed. It felt like this new world of hospitals, rehab, specialists, government departments and other care agencies seemed to be a maze of deception and despair. There were plenty of organizations ready to take the money available but most lacked the service they promised. I liken it to saying the words "I LOVE YOU" - easy to say but much more of an effort to truly show in your behaviour. Through love and faith I forged out the best I could for my son. Ultimately, I have founded Extensions To Life out of a desperate need in Nelson. I know what it's like... I've been there - the difference is, I CARE and I've done something about it.
In 1998 I moved to Nelson from Dunedin and started working with a young brain-injured man after a car accident. He went on to live a almost independent life. I then worked with more clients who had sustained trauma to the brain and I found myself not only become an expert at their basic care, but also drawn to the care of their soul.
We knew we could never do things the same as before the injury - but we did our best to do the same things differently. After training as a Living Skills Tutor specializing in brain injuries, I thrive on the opportunity to make a difference in people's lives - especially the ones who think their lives are over.
I am driven by a true passion for these individuals and I'm very successful at developing plans that include their families who are also grieving victims of a tragedy.
