Sweet words many wish, and sometimes hear once guardianship orders have been removed and one’s life and decision-making rights are restored back to the person subject to them.
Alternatively, their loved ones take over from a public guardian/trustee, when the person with a disability lacks capacity.
Then what?
Often we hear and see at Australian Association to Stop Guardianship and Adminstration Abuse (AASGAA) crying, anger, disbelief, and revenge. Yes, many are still in revengeful mode.
We witness relief, especially when a decision has been overturned that should not have been made in the first place. Many are stunned, lost that they have ‘their life back’, and for others, it takes a while to adjust to their newly found freedom.
A member told me that for many years others were making decisions on her behalf via guardianship orders and the day she was ‘set free” felt a sense of relief but fearful of her future.
Like a caged bird who finally had the door swung open and set free to do as she pleased yet, was so conditioned and dependent on a system that encouraged entrapment (and allegedly profits from the capture quite handsomely).
She did not actually know how to function as a free woman. Even carers are often overwhelmed with the new ‘responsibilities”.
That is not an uncommon emotion to experience.
We [AASGAA] hear these concerns often.
Our advice is to take it slowly, there is no rush.
Make wise choices, and take each day as it comes.
Deal with the important issues first: accommodation, health, advocacy, services etc. Deal with the basics.
You will survive, you will adapt. Seek trusted support and carers, and always reach out to those you trust.
Most importantly, enjoy your new life!
This opinion article is republished with permission of AASGAA.
