Robyn's story, mother

The day after my daughter Reteisha’s death, the department came and removed my older two daughters, Tyleah and Kyana. I was broken. I had lost all my babies. In the space of 24 hours my life had changed for the worst and it would never be the same again. My grief was overwhelming and all consuming. I felt like I was being punished. Drugs were the only thing that helped me cope with the pain.

There were many years of drugs, alcohol and violence from my partner after that awful time. I fell pregnant two years after my daughters were taken. I gave birth to my fourth child, Noah, who was removed three weeks later. Life once again spiralled out of control – all the pain came rushing back. 

I grew stronger though and became more determined to create a better life for myself.

I completed several courses that supported me. It was the methadone program that really changed everything for me. It gave me my life back after years of drug use. I could see clearly what I wanted and I knew I could get it. 

In 2021 I fell pregnant again. I went alone to Sydney to give birth to Jarakye. I was away from my family and I was scared as it was in the middle of Covid. I wasn’t sure if I would be allowed to keep Jarakye in my care or if he was going to be taken like my other children had been. I met Margaret after she called and introduced herself to me as my new caseworker. We talked and from the start I felt like she didn’t judge me.

Margaret explains things to me and she doesn’t cut me off halfway through what I want to say. For the first time ever I felt heard. If I’m worried or have questions I know I can call Margaret. She reassures me I’m doing a good job or suggests a new approach if I’m stuck. 

It was a big deal the day I called Margaret and asked for help to leave Jarakye’s dad. I’d had enough and wanted a better life for myself and my son. Margaret helped me to relocate with Jarakye to a women’s refuge. 

It can be scary having DCJ in your life, but Margaret always makes me feel safe enough to trust her and I can be honest with her. Margaret came to visit us in person instead of over the phone, sat down with me, had a cuppa and let me talk about my life and my dreams for myself as a mother.

Margaret got to really know me, my family and our experience with the department. I’m proud of being able to keep Jarakye with me. I’ve made decisions that show I can keep him safe, but it’s hard not having my other three children with me. Ending the relationship with Jarakye’s dad and standing on my own has been a big change for me. I’ve learnt that I’m stronger than I thought.

We are doing great now. We are safe and looking forward to getting our own home. My next big hope is to get my older children back home where they belong, with Jarakye.