Fundraiser: Bree-arne Chamley says Karingal’s Melaluka respite centre will be a vital community facility.
JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
INDEPENDENCE means a lot to Bree-arne Chamley – it’s just difficult to feel free in a body holding you captive.
The talented musician and writer has suffered multiple sclerosis for six years since her diagnosis at 19.
“I was in denial for ages. The MS had to get serious before I could accept it, Bree-arne confessed.
“I was always really independent but now I do need some help. Sometimes it’s hard to find the right balance been support and independence.”
That’s why the active MS Society fundraiser supports community services provider Karingal’s bid to establish a respite facility at Leopold.
“It’s important to maintain independence as much as possible,” Bree-arne said.
“Sometimes you have to guard against dependency but respite gives my carer, Lachlan, and me a break. You can be as self-sufficient as you want while knowing help is always available.”
Karingal chief Daryl Starkey said the organisation’s first public appeal sought $1.5 million for the Melaluka respite accommodation project.
The project would allow Karingal to provide 2500 nights of respite accommodation for up to 300 clients annually, Mr Starkey said.
The respite facility would mostly service people with multiple sclerosis or other disabilities and their families.
Bree-arne raised $7000 for the MS Society with a concert and auction at Ocean Grove in August.
She hopes to help others suffering MS, using her music to raise awareness as well as funds.
Bree-arne said she would release her first solo album next month and was turning her blog into a book about her MS journey.
The Independent is supporting the Melaluka project with promotion in the region’s highest-circulating newspaper.
