Star

From injury to inspiration

By Belinda Nolan

9th February 2010 11:05:07 AM

Purchase this photo from Star Photos

Remarkable ... Michelle Newland has overcome a brain injury to become an inspiration to others. 37327

MICHELLE Newland has spent the past eight years learning how to talk and eat but that hasn’t stopped her from trying to make a difference in the lives of others.

Seven years ago, the talented university student was studying to be a teacher when a sudden asthma attack turned her dreams upside down.

Michelle suffered a near-fatal brain injury, which robbed her of her ability to walk, talk, eat and do many things that most people take for granted.

“It was absolutely horrific,” her mother Ann Newland recalled.

“She had the whole world at her fingertips and suddenly everything disappeared.

“One day, I was helping her look for her first car and within a matter of days I was searching for a nursing home for my teenage daughter. “It was every parent’s worst nightmare,” Ms Newland said.

Unable to care for her daughter’s complex needs, Ms Newland and her husband were forced to admit Michelle to a nursing home.

It was a dark time for the once vivacious teenager.

“It was absolutely devastating,” Ms Newland said.

While medical experts warned Michelle might never recover from her injuries, her family never gave up.

Nor did Michelle.

Seven years later and Michelle has made a remarkable recovery.

With the support of her parents and church community, Michelle gradually began to regain her ability to eat and talk.

Unable to fulfil her dream of becoming a school teacher, Michelle has found her own way to teach others.

Now in her 20s, Michelle spends her spare time in the community, visiting schools and groups to share her story to spur others to success.

“I enjoy sharing my story because I like helping people,” Michelle said.

This week, her remarkable achievements will be honoured by the Rotary Club of Brimbank, who have nominated her for club’s annual Shine On Disability Awards.

Ms Newland said the nomination was humbling.

“It’s not about winning, it’s an opportunity for Michelle to share her story.”

“In eight years there’s been nothing for her so to be able to get out in the community and speak to people is really an achievement in itself,” Ms Newland said.