Meet Helena Kidd

Helena recently celebrated a great success: she graduated her Certificate III in Business after six years of study! We got in touch to say congratulations, and we were lucky enough to have Helena share some of her story with us, and some valuable advice…

Hi my name is Helena Kidd. I’m 43 years old with cerebral palsy. I have been with CPL since I was six months old when my parents started bringing in a team of therapists and family members to help get me to where I am now. I grew up in Rockhampton and did daily physiotherapy at home, and horse riding and swimming to help get me stronger.

When I was about six years old we moved to Brisbane because at the time there was no school for me in Rockhampton. I spent 10 years in Brisbane at New Farm Special School and I graduated in 1992. Then I started at Glenmore High in 1993 where I finished my schooling, graduating in 1996.

After school, I eventually returned to Rockhampton and in February 2013 I started a Certificate III in Business at the Rockhampton Canning Street TAFE.

I chose to study Business Administration because I would like to get a job in Medical Administration, working in a hospital or a nursing home.

I have no control over my hands and I am not verbal, so to communicate I use a keyboard called Big Keys, which I operate using my feet, and a Track Ball Mouse. This mouse is designed for people with disabilities who aren’t able to use a normal mouse, or for people who have to use their feet instead of their hands.

These tools made it possible for me to complete my studies, which I did! This year, after six years, I was very proud to graduate. I am now hoping to gain employment, preferably in the medical field. That is my new goal to work towards.

To all of the young people out there with physical disabilities: if you want to achieve your goal, have a positive mind and you will get there.
 

Thank you.

Helena Kidd

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Helenda Kidd at graduation with her family. Helena is wearing a graduation gown and cap.