Griffith woman Shirley Astill before taking part in the Fresh Start program.

They say that a change is as good as a holiday. And for Griffith woman Shirley Astill that's never been truer after a day of pampering helped her make a fresh start.
The new Fresh Start program courtesy of local group Griffith Suicide Awareness gave Shirley, who has suffered from depression for more than 30 years, the lift she needed.
A series of unfortunate family losses over the years, including the tragic death of her two sons 15 months ago, has taken its toll on Shirley. But last week she spent a full day having her hair cut and coloured followed by a massage and facial.
"It was just wonderful," she said. "I could never afford to have it done before and I can't believe how good it has made me feel. When I saw the results I thought WOW, I didn't know I could look this good. I think the whole idea is just wonderful. When you get depressed you feel so low. But to know someone cares makes such a big difference."
Suicide Awareness president Val Rowe said the aim of the program was to provide a boost to the self esteem of locals in need.
The program hopes to make a difference to the lives of one person a month who is experiencing tough times. "I hope that out of this program they feel refreshed and that it might be a first step for them in rebuilding their self esteem, " Mrs Rowe said. "We know that Shirley has had a hard time and that it has been many, many years since she'd had her hair done like this. She has had many family problems and bad luck that has brought on her depression."
Call Mrs Rowe on 6962 3948 if you know of someone who deserves a fresh start.

From The Area News, Tanya Pattison, 12 March 2008.

Freshstart Makeover

EVERY one loves a makeover, none more so than Freshstart recipient Shirley Astill who was recently transformed by the talented hands of Frank Battaglia from Battaglia Salon and the girls at Eternal Beauty and Nails. Freshstart 2008 is a new program through the Griffith Suicide Awareness group that endeavors to help people face the world with more self esteem who have been through a particularly difficult time.

Val Rowe of Griffith Suicide Awareness is hoping to run Freshstart once a month and would like to encourage people who have gone through depression to nominate for the program.

As for Shirley, she was certainly walking taller after her makeover and was overjoyed by the results. "I walked out feeling like a whole new person. Everyone was so lovely and it made me feel so special. It was such good fun and I wanted to dance up and down the street," said Shirley, "It's a really worthwhile program and has given me a new lease on life. It's good to know that there are people who care."

To nominate for the Freshstart program call Val Rowe on 6962 3948 or write to PO Box 8039 Griffith NSW 2680.

GO Magazine, May 2008.