Source: New Zealand Government Kainga Ora
“I’ve gained my independence again. This house is just the best,” says Lara.
After being diagnosed with muscular dystrophy at 10 years old, Lara’s life has never been easy.
The genetic disease, that causes a loss of muscle mass, has led to a slow deterioration in what Lara’s body allows her to do.
“It started with a slow decline in my quality of life in my teens, but its impacts have sped up as I’ve got older. Eventually it’s progressed to the point where I now need a wheelchair to get around.
“You go from living your life how you want, to not being able to do things for yourself anymore. It’s a massive mental hurdle to overcome,” Lara explains.
As her condition has progressed, Lara and eight-year-old Amelia have found the way their home functions crucial to the way they can live.
“In the past the homes we’ve lived in weren’t set up well for a wheelchair user. I wasn’t able to go outside and enjoy the backyard, as I couldn’t get my chair out the back door.
“Even getting out the front door was an absolute mission without a ramp!” Lara quips.
But last year things changed when Lara and Amelia, along with cats Flash, Storm and Rat Bag and dog Mischief, moved into an accessible Kāinga Ora home in Mosgiel.
The home has a range of features that make it easy for Lara to safely move around, including level-entry access, wider doorways, open-plan living spaces and slip-resistant flooring in the bathroom and kitchen.
Since moving in, Lara says her health has been easier to manage and she’s finding life’s day-to-day tasks a lot easier.
“The accessible features like the level-entry and ramps have made a huge difference to our lives. It’s meant I can be more independent and rely on Amelia less.
“We’ve found we can do more things together now I can get in and out of the house easily. We go out and enjoy our neighbourhood more.
“I can even take the rubbish out myself and go outside to sit on the deck and enjoy the sun while Amelia plays with mischief in the backyard.
“I know they’re little things to most people, but they’re big things for us. This home is just perfect for me and I couldn’t be more grateful for it,” says Lara.
Page updated: 27 February 2025