Living Life Without Limits: How NDIS Support and Just Better Care Sunshine Coast Helped Robin Thrive

When Sunshine Coast local Robin Braidwood lost his vision in 2004 due to Retinitis Pigmentosa, he faced an uncertain future. But with the right disability support and NDIS Plan Management from Just Better Care, Robin’s story has become one of resilience, independence, and community achievement.

Starting Over After Losing His Vision

Robin first noticed changes in his peripheral vision in his 20s, but the full impact hit years later when he woke up one morning in complete darkness.

“I thought it was still night-time. I didn’t realise I’d lost all my vision.”

Leaving behind his engineering career, Robin retrained as a massage therapist in London, studying alongside hundreds of other vision-impaired students. He eventually made the move to Australia with his wife Marian, who also has a vision impairment.

Facing Barriers on the Sunshine Coast

Starting a new life in Australia came with challenges.

“Transport was the biggest barrier. We couldn’t get to sports events or appointments reliably. I felt like I was letting my son down.”

Without reliable support, Robin struggled to participate in everyday life, and his young son was missing out on typical childhood activities.

Gaining Independence Through the NDIS

Everything changed when Robin joined the NDIS and became a customer of Just Better Care Sunshine Coast.

Just Better Care helped Robin access a reliable support worker who now assists with transport, medical appointments, shopping, and sports outings.

“At my son’s soccer games, my support worker sits with me and describes the game so I feel included. It’s been life-changing.”

Competing in Triathlons with the ‘3 Blind Mice’

Robin didn’t stop there. He co-founded a vision-impaired triathlon team, the ‘3 Blind Mice’, which now competes in major Sunshine Coast events like the Noosa and Mooloolaba Triathlons.

“Just Better Care even sponsors our team — covering entry fees and supplying our gear. We couldn’t do it without them.”

With his guide runner Norbert by his side and a rope tether in hand, Robin takes on obstacle races, runs, and swims — all without sight, powered by teamwork and trust.

The Power of Local NDIS Plan Management

Robin says the personal service he receives from Just Better Care’s NDIS Plan Management team is what truly sets them apart.

“They came to my home, understood my needs, and helped me use my plan in ways that make sense for my life.”

For example, they helped Robin purchase a Smart TV with talkback so he could watch programs independently.

“It might seem small, but it gave me back my independence.”

Looking Ahead with Confidence

With a strong support network, Robin is now focused on parenting, training, and achieving personal goals with his triathlon team.

“We push each other to do our best. And with support from Just Better Care, we know we’re not alone.”