Karleigh smashing her goals!

ConneXu Partner Karleigh is smashing her goals in so many areas of her life, from completing her level 3 Certificate in Health and Wellbeing this semester to completing the 11km course of the Auckland Marathon in October, to participating in a range of team sports and activities.

 She’s been studying at the Toi Ohomai Campus in Tauranga to complete her New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Health Assistance) (Level 3).  “I finished my level 3 course, learning how to look after people as a health care assistant or caregiver,” says Karleigh.

“At Toi Ohomai there is a lab where we practiced manual handling and personal care…I (also) got to meet a really awesome bunch of people.”  

 “Now I want to do my Level 4… I’m looking for a placement in aged care. I believe (the elderly) are a treasure.”

Karleigh has been living in her Maxwell flat with Tiara and another flatmate. She says ConneXu is amazing.

 “It’s amazing, yeah. ConneXu is impressive – it’s the only place Mum will send me to.”

 “Knowing I can do stuff but have that support if I need to, and mum being able to take a step back. And knowing that I have people in my corner.”  

 “The ConneXu Team help me do stuff like cooking, cause sometimes with my essential tremors I get a bit shaky, so I get worried that I’m going to hurt myself. They also help support me to do my chores and keep my room tidy.”

 “I like doing stuff together as a flat and the community Facilitators help to support when need be.”

“For example, we go to tenpin bowling together…weekly during the school term in a league. My team got third equal.”

Aside from tenpin bowling, Karleigh has a bunch of other interests that keep her more than busy. She plays a fantasy trading card game and American Football for the Tauranga City Tridents Women’s Team.

 She is also a rugby referee for junior and rippa rugby, and jokes “I’m enjoying it, apart from the heckling from the sideline!”

 Karleigh recently did the Auckland Marathon 11km with Achilles International NZ and swims in a squad with Evolution Aquatics too…

 “My strongest stroke is breaststroke. I try to get there twice a week. It’s just a great way to keep fit and I get to set goals.”

Keep smashing those goals Karleigh, we can’t wait to continue this journey with you and see what you do next!