Paul is a true Aussie larrikin. Nothing brings him more joy than scaring his mates and playing practical jokes on his family. It’s all about having a laugh!

Paul is 24 years old. When he was 18 months old he was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia, a fast growing cancer of the blood and bone marrow.

Paul’s mum Donna tells us, “I remember the day he was diagnosed. I was trying to vacuum and Paul kept sneaking up, switching it off and running away giggling.” That is one of Donna’s last memories of Paul running with such ease and freedom.

Paul commenced a gruelling eight months fight for his life. After months of chemotherapy, blood tests, spinal taps and additional tests he reached remission, but sadly payed a very high price. Paul’s treatments not only destroyed the cancer; they also resulted in Paul developing multiple disabilities - an intellectual disability, severe epilepsy, mild cerebral palsy and partial blindness.

Paul understands most of what is going on around him. However, because of the lesions on his brain Paul has been unable to develop his language further and can’t walk or run unaided.

Paul needs constant support. It’s the simple every day living skills like eating and washing, which we take for granted, that Paul can’t manage by himself.

When Paul finished school at 19 years of age, he needed to find a post school program to provide him with support to continue to develop his life skills, participate in the community and continue to build friendships. Donna and Neil knew they had found the right place as soon as they were introduced to House With No Steps.

At House With No Steps, Paul participates in a variety of activities like fishing, BBQs, ball games and simply walking in the park. He also participates in essential life skill programs such as cooking and shopping. His favourite activity by far is swimming. Paul needs someone with him in the water at all times and of course, splashing his carer and friends is always on the agenda.

Paul’s family are delighted with the improvements they have seen in Paul since he has been at House With No Steps.