Service Coordinator Story
Making room to grow
Cathy Watts’ first career was as a businesswoman and florist and it naturally led her to where she was always meant to bloom. Right here with us!
Cathy being presented by former CEO, Mark
Service Coordinator Story
Cathy Watts’ first career was as a businesswoman and florist and it naturally led her to where she was always meant to bloom. Right here with us!
Cathy being presented by former CEO, Mark
The disability sector and floristry are both heartfelt jobs, bringing beauty and joy. Cathy tells the story…
When I sold my floristry business to make the move to disability, I realized there were many skills I’d be taking with me. Skills like building rapport and helping people make choices to find exactly what’s right for them. These things came in especially handy when the NDIS was first introduced.
Someone described those early days of NDIS as “flying a plane without landing gear yet”. It was a tumultuous time but the rewards were obvious from the start. I’ll never forget a lady who said that her first NDIS plan felt like winning Lotto. She wanted to be independent and was thankful for every single thing. Sometimes this work can be really heavy when we have to keep pushing for what our Members want and need. This means advocating with MPs and always lots and lots of time on the phone. It’s especially hard when we can’t offer more support simply because the decision is out of our control.
“What motivates me is being able to be there alongside people who rely on us, telling them “Look, we’ll get through this.” And then we do”
I think that’s what keeps me going. It’s hearing a parent say, “I’m ready to find independent living for my child,” and guiding them, that is meaningful. They discover things about themselves, just like anyone would when given the space to grow.
Here at Living My Way, it’s a grassroots approach. We can be flexible in how we do things.
Receiving the Milena Morrow Award has been humbling. I met Milena once – she was very very genuine, warm, and caring. She was lovely.
Thanks Cathy for the impact you make every day!
An award that honors the late Milena Morrow, a founding Member, Chair, and advocate whose passion and dedication left a special impact.
This annual award recognises a team member who embodies Milena’s spirit and exemplifies our values in everything they do.
