Tania (This is not her real name)

I am a youth worker and 8 years ago I had the privilege of meeting an incredible young woman whom I respect and admire to this day.

Here is some of Tania’s story.

Tania was born into a family that loved her and gave her the best that they had.  However “the best” in this case was less than what Tania needed and deserved.  By age 13 Tania had already witnessed and experienced more trauma than the vast majority of people do in a lifetime.  Tania was exposed to violence, substance use, prostitution, suicide, familial mental health and neglect.  Tania was removed from her family and experienced 22 different homes by the time she was 13 years of age.

Tania is a gifted communicator, in her writing, in her speech and in her actions.  Tania is not afraid to speak the truth even when her audience may not want to hear it.  When people experience the kinds of adversity in life that Tania has, usually one of two things happens.  They follow the patterns and behaviours that they have grown up with or they choose to take another path.  I’m not certain that Tania chose another path or whether it chose her.  From the moment I met her she seemed destined for greatness.  Admittedly it was a feeling in my gut because what I saw in reality told a very different story.  Tania’s childhood experiences and later her experiences in Out of Home Care seem to have put a fire in her soul.  She has an intense ferocity in regards to justice and fairness.  This has been present as long as I have known her and it continues to burn bright.  She has tenacity, grit and determination, and unbelievable resilience.

In the last few years Tania has experienced tragedy beyond what many could cope with.  She has lost her sister, father and mother to suicide.  As a 19 year old Tania had buried the entirety of her immediate family.  In this process she has not only experienced loss but she also witnessed devastating scenes.  Yet somehow, each time Tania had the wind (and life) knocked out of her she found the strength to get back up and keep going. 

Whilst full of grief and disbelief she somehow came back stronger and more determined.  I know there are times where there is an incredible heaviness that creeps in and sometimes it’s hard to breathe but she is still here and more importantly she is continuing to make amazing progress.  Tania has maintained links with education and is currently completing her Certificate in Community Services with the hope of one day working with young people.  How blessed those young people will be.

From where I stand, Tania would have every right to be angry at the world and I know there are times when she is angry but mostly she is kind-hearted, generous, caring, loving, funny, a wonderful mother and a loyal friend.  She is protective, has a fighting spirit and will stand against anything that threatens the people she loves.

Tania is by far and without doubt one of the most remarkable people I have ever met.   Despite what life has thrown at her she continues to strive for better for her and her daughter.  She defines resilience and strength.  

Over the past 12 months Tania’s (very old) car has continued to break down and a number of her supports have pooled together to have the car fixed on each occasion.  Her car has again broken down and she is in desperate need of a car that will be reliable and safe for her and her 2 year old daughter.   

Tania lives in public housing, is on a low income and after expenses has $50 per fortnight to support her and her daughter.  

Nothing has come easy to Tania and it would be wonderful for her to catch a break.  Your help to make Tania’s life just a little bit easier would mean the world to her.