Ashton was first diagnosed with brain cancer when he was just 14. Embarking on an intensive journey of cancer treatment, Ash chose to take 12 months off school to focus on his health, before returning in year 10 on reduced hours, and completing years 11 and 12.
After completing treatment, Ash became weak on the left side of his body and was encouraged to use a wheelchair to ensure he didn’t overexert himself.
When returning to school to finish year 12, Ash became frustrated with remaining seated for long hours of the day, worried it would hinder his physical wellbeing.
“After my surgery, I began to feel a bit unbalanced and struggled to walk long distances. Throughout school, I needed to use my wheelchair to get around, but felt like I wanted to push my body. I didn’t want to get too comfortable in the chair in fear of losing the strength that I was gaining through working with my Occupational Therapist and rehab team,” said Ash.
Determined to build his strength further and find normality in his body as it is today, once he graduated, Ash began looking for work and was set on finding an employer who understood his goals for rehabilitation and that fostered a healthy working environment to thrive in.
“I had previously worked casually with my uncle, assisting with his landscaping business and really enjoyed it. When I joined WISE, I was hoping to find something within this field that was slightly less physically demanding, and they reassured me this was definitely something they could arrange,” said Ash.
Having already been with another job provider and not finding successful employment, Ash turned to WISE and was partnered with Employment Consultant Gabi.
Gabi set up a meeting with Ash, his parents, and Industry Employment Partner Josh who has multiple connections with the area, and in particular, Macarthur Mowers.
Within one week, Gabi and Josh attended the interview with Ash, and was interviewed by Brett and Michael from Macarthur Mowers. The following week, Ash was offered a position.
“During the interview, I told Gabi that having previous experience with landscaping meant I was familiar with mowers, and she assured me my skills could apply to the role of Admin Assistant, but to be honest, I’m a bit of an all-rounder,” says Ash.
Before his first day, WISE assisted Ash with purchasing a uniform and equipment, and Gabi organised an Occupational Therapist through Job Access to conduct a workplace assessment, ensuring Macarther Mowers had everything he needed to feel comfortable.
“After the assessment, WISE organised a new chair and desk that felt more comfortable and other equipment to assist me in being mobile throughout the day,” said Ash.
Having now passed his three-month probationary period, Ash is thriving at work. With help from Gabi and WISE Employment, Ash feels empowered and has noticed a major change in his overall wellbeing.
His manager Michael couldn’t agree more and is constantly singing his praises.
“The value Ashton brings to the team is truly inspiring. There is often a misconception that when hiring someone with a disability, someone needs to be constantly watching, helping or assisting. This couldn’t be further from the truth with Ash. We are very fortunate to have him,” said Macarthur Mowers General Manager Michael.
Ash feels proud of how far he’s come, and after each weekend, is excited to get back to work.
“Having a workplace that understands my needs, while allowing me to work out of my wheelchair has really helped me – both physically and emotionally. I’ve seen a great difference in my body strength, and even my rehab team are surprised at how far I’ve come since starting the job.”
“I love the blokes I work with because I feel like I can talk to them about anything – they really get me – and of course, having money isn’t too bad either!” laughs Ash.
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