9 weeks ago, my life drastically changed. I was playing sport and my leg went limp. Three surgeries later, I was told I would never be able to play competitive sport again as I was diagnosed with septic arthritis in my left knee joint. Sport is a huge outlet for my mental health, and when my outlet became a barrier, I slowly started to experience my mental health declining. 

 Septic arthritis usually is caused by bacteria that spread through the blood stream from another area of the body. It can also be caused by a bacterial infection from an open wound or an opening from a surgical procedure, such as knee surgery. My infection caused me to stay in hospital for a month and a half, and my infection levels near fatal. I am currently on a wait list for a fourth surgery which is a manipulation of the knee under anaesthetic to have my mobility and independence restored. 

During this 9 week period I was challenged to stay regulated and on top of my mental health. I have lost a sense of identity, routine, independence and my outlet for my mental health. I have experienced some dark days I thought I had moved past, and I have had to really utilise my skills to make sure I stay on track and to instil a sense of hope. 

To stay connected and grounded, I decided to utilise my time to swim for SANE Australia. 

I am proud to be a SANE Peer Ambassador. Every year, people with complex mental health needs rely on SANE as a resource for support, information and advice. If you’re looking to support an organisation that makes a real difference, please consider making a gift to ensure their vital support services can continue to reach those who need them most. Donations of $2 or more are tax deductible.

The more people we have spreading the word, the more funds we can raise for SANE which directly support changing the future for people living with complex mental health needs.

SANE Australia is the nation’s number one charity making a real difference for the five million Australians affected by complex mental health issues, and their friends and family

Each year, one million people access SANE’s free professional counselling via telephone, email or online, and connect with SANE’s online Forums – Australia’s only 24/7 community and peer-based support for people with complex mental health needs.

SANE is working hard to transform its services, reaching more people in more ways which are better suited to their needs, but also breaking down barriers to access, particularly for people in rural areas, and people with disabilities.  

Individual connections are at the heart of SANE’s programs and services – connecting people in need with professionals and peers to assist their pathways to recovery. SANE’s Peer Ambassador Program is one of those vital programs, with ambassadors sharing their personal experience of living with, or supporting someone with complex mental health needs – contributing their unique voice and authentic perspective.

I will be swimming 1.5 kms in the pool or the ocean starting July the first to raise money and to share my story. 

Any donation will be appreciated. I hope to stay connected by  raising funds for an organisation that has helped me with my own mental health journey :) 

Carissa