Second chance at life: How Lauren found her independence with GR8

For Lauren, who became a quadriplegic after a rare spinal tumour left her unable to move anything below her neck, living independently had once seemed impossible.

After spending six months in hospital and four months in rehab, she returned home only to face a harsh reality: her rental had been sold. What followed were two years of instability, moving through five different houses, short-term accommodation and an ongoing struggle to find a place that offered both dignity and functionality.

“Housing should be a basic human right, but it’s been the hardest thing to find,” she said.

Lauren’s life changed when she connected with GR8 Disability Housing, meeting Managing Director Perry Kleppe, who had first met her at an Expo a few years earlier.

GR8 helped her move into a purpose-built SDA home, designed with accessibility at its heart funded by the Galati family better known for their Spudshed fresh food empire.

“This house has given me back my life,” Lauren said.

“I can do my own washing and dishes, I can move around with ease, and I feel part of a community again.”

Moving in was a big step for Lauren, but it also felt like the beginning of a new chapter. The Baldivis home includes open spaces, adjustable benches, oversized bathrooms and thoughtful design features that make independent living possible.

Since moving in, Lauren’s recovery has accelerated. She now uses a manual wheelchair, can walk with support, and has even regained her driver’s licence. She has returned to university to study social work, determined to advocate for disability rights.

Perry Kleppe said Lauren’s story demonstrates the difference high-quality SDA housing can make.

“Lauren’s journey shows what happens when people have stability, choice and dignity in where they live,” he said.

“From the moment I met Lauren, to where she is now, it’s a completely different person,” he said.

For Lauren, the impact is profound.

“I’m back on my feet, living independently, with my licence and a future to plan,” she said.

“This home has given me opportunities I thought were gone.”

The Baldivis home is one of three new SDA homes by GR8 in partnership with the Galati family.

“Having community figures like Tony and Frankie Galati investing in disability housing helps shine a light on what’s possible when we design with compassion and care,” Perry said.

For Lauren, moving into her GR8 home hasn’t just been a change of address, it’s been a second chance at life.