Rachel Smith has been supported by RFQ since 1996 after Project 300, a Queensland government initiative, enabled her and her housemate Christine, to relocate from Baillie Henderson psychiatric hospital to her home in the Toowoomba community.  

Rachel described the hospital as ‘not a great place’ and loves the freedom she has experienced for over 20 years with support from RFQ, initially receiving assistance through The Housing and Support Program and later moving to the NDIS program.  

Rachel has continued to live independently alongside her housemates with round-the-clock support assisting her and prompting day-to-day living like maintenance of her special diet, food preparation and meals.  

“Megan helps me, she is kind to me and helps me put my clothes away, washing and tidying up.”As a child Rachel was diagnosed with Prader-Willi syndrome, which is characterised by physical, behavioural and mental challenges including constant eating due to never feeling full (known as hyperphagia). Rachel was later diagnosed with schizophrenia.  

Christine sadly passed away two years ago, after more than 20 years of living together, but thankfully she has two other housemates that she enjoys spending time with. 

Some of Rachel’s highlights throughout the year include an annual trip to visit her 90-year-old mother in Townsville and her nieces and nephews, having a special meal on her birthday in June and spending Christmas with her housemates.  

When asked what she thought of RFQ, Rachel said the support helps her lead a happy, better life. 

“I appreciate everything RFQ has done, helped me with my mental illness and get better when I’m unwell.” 

Rachel is now 55 and enjoys crafting, shopping, writing letters to friends and family and going on long drives to some of her favourite spots including Picnic Point in the Toowoomba region.