Resident Stories - Darren

Darren epitomises the challenges our residents can face in society, easily slipping through the cracks of the system without a viable, permanent housing solution. After 12 months at Habilis Darren has settled into a safe and stable way of life. And when we say Habilis probably saved his life, we’re not exaggerating.

Darren was a professional keyboard player who came to Sydney from Western Australia after his release from prison there. He had a long struggle with the use of methamphetamine, and episodes of a chronic mental illness that was only partly responsive to medication.

He had relatively stable accommodation in a boarding house, but was forced onto the streets after being threatened by another resident - a common issue for people living with mental illness, who can be especially vulnerable to intimidation. Darren lived in a tent for two years, most recently in a discreet location beside the light rail line. He continued to attend the clinic at Matthew Talbot Hostel for medical and psychiatric care, including treatment of several skin infections from lack of access to facilities to wash himself and his clothes.  

He described being overjoyed by the offer of a unit at Habilis 1, and the immense relief he felt to have his own bathroom with unlimited hot water after living in a tent for so long. As a musician, he also appreciated the excellent soundproofing in his apartment, where his keyboards take pride of place. Everybody deserves access to hot running water, let alone a safe and comfortable home.

Soon after he moved in, Darren collapsed with the rapid progression of the paralysing neurological disorder, Guillian Barre syndrome. Without the rapid attention of our Habilis caretaker, he may well have died. He spent nearly three months in hospital, including several weeks on a ventilator in intensive care, and has made a slow recovery, with his rehabilitation supported by Habilis staff and fellow residents. We’re proud of how Darren has settled in and thrived at Habilis.

”After I was discharged from Concord Hospital I remember saying to myself as I walked through my door, ‘Aaaah, home sweet home’. It was good to be back inside my new, clean, safe home which protects me in so very many ways. I am very grateful to all the staff that have given me full support and the medical help I need.  I have also made some good friends here.”