Humans of Lifeline — Lifeline Ambassador & Mental fitness facilitator
Matthew Caruana
“I want people to know that they have it inside of them to overcome whatever that life throws at them.“
Trigger Warning: This story discusses topics some readers may find triggering. If that's the case, you can call Lifeline at any time on 13 11 14, text on 0477 13 11 14, or chat (https://www.lifeline.org.au/crisis-chat) with one of our trained Crisis Supporters.
What Connects you to lifeline?
I'm working with Lifeline as an ambassador. I'm motivated to spread a message of hope and show that there is support out there. Whether that be to Lifeline or anyone. Help is out there. And you can do it. You can. Those that are struggling need to know there are people who do care, that they don't need to go through it all on their own.
I have many injuries due to a suicide attempt 7 years ago. But the main one that really made all the difference was my spinal cord. I had severely injured my spinal cord and was told that unfortunately, there's no way to reverse it. That's what I was told.
It has been a very slow burn of recovery. I'm essentially learning how to walk using the exoskeleton (EKSO), which is a robot. It's assisted walking, but it also measures how much I'm relying on the EKSO, how much effort I'm putting in. Each week, we can track my progress and slowly the amount I depend on the EKSO is decreasing.
Each week, we can track my progress and slowly the amount I depend on the EKSO is decreasing.
It's amazing where medical science is going and where it's headed. I believe anything's possible, and I know with absolute conviction that I am going to walk again.
As well as learning to walk again and my recovery, a major goal of mine is to influence meaningful change in millions of people's lives. I want people to know that they have it inside of them to overcome whatever that life throws at them. Working with Lifeline and public speaking as a mental fitness facilitator is helping me achieve that.
Human Stories
The Humans of Lifeline
These Humans support lifeline in their own unique way, to ensure that no person in Australia has to face their darkest moments alone.
Read their stories →
Ways to get involved
Thanks to the unwavering support of the Australian people, Lifeline is able to celebrate 60 years of service to people in times of crisis. The generosity that you provide helps us be there for those who need us and equip communities across Australia to be suicide safe. Explore the ways you can participate in our celebrations and help Lifeline continue its important work for another 60 years and beyond.
