Tracy's Story

A mother, wife and carer, Tracy's entire world was thrown upside down in September last year.

"Jay was fine. We went to karaoke as usual on the Thursday; he loved dancing along in his wheelchair."

"Friends were teaching him sign language, everyone was having a great night. Someone took a photo of us, Jay had a half smile thanks to a mouth full of Mentos lollies. That's the last photo I have with my son."

Jay went to stay with his respite family on the Friday morning after breakfast. By Saturday night, he had stopped breathing in his sleep.

Diagnosed with a brain tumour at just seven months old, Jay endured endless surgeries before suffering a brain haemorrhage and subsequent complications at age two.

"Jay fought so hard his whole life. But that final night in the hospital, I told him it was ok to let go."

"He would have turned 21 in March."

No sooner had she lost the 'light of her life', Tracy's world plunged into darkness yet again.

"Within a week of Jay's passing, my husband was in hospital. Ian died of liver failure on October 23rd".

Dedicating her life to helping Jay, raising 16-year-old Tye, and facing her own health challenges, Tracy relied upon Ian's income as a bus driver to support the family.

"When he passed, we were left with nothing."

Struggling with the financial implications of losing her son and husband, Tracy's circumstances quickly spiralled out of control.

"When Ian passed, there was no funeral service. I viewed him, and said my goodbyes."

"I had to sell Ian's car to pay for Jay's cremation. There was no money to pay the bills, let alone the funeral costs."

Barely able to cover the first instalment, Tracy came close to giving up as the second payment fell due.

That's when a healthcare provider suggested UnitingCare Wesley Bowden's financial counselling service.

"I knew UCWB helped people, but I had no idea they could assist with something like this."

Offering information, support and advocacy, UCWB's financial counsellors provide a free, non-judgemental and confidential service to anyone experiencing financial difficulty.

From advice on managing financial problems, to speaking with creditors and negotiating repayment options, UCWB's critical support service enables people to have choice, live with dignity and hold their head high.

In her hour of need, Tracy's financial counsellor David came to her aid. Managing the payment of funeral expenses on her behalf, David's tailored approach allowed Tracy precious time to grieve.

"David took care of everything, it was such a relief. When he called, I was in tears."

For more than 150 years, UCWB has helped people and families of all backgrounds to acquire the life skills and support they need to confidently and proudly create a fulfilled and stable future. We enable those who are experiencing personal, social or financial distress to cope with their immediate situation with strength and dignity.

As a not-for-profit organisation, UCWB relies on the generosity of the community to continue providing critical programs and services for all South Australians in need.

Tracy's story is not an easy one to read. Nor is it unique. Your support will help others just like her take back control of their lives and look to a brighter future.

"I've always done everything on my own. This is the best support I have ever received in my life."