Experiencing the loss of a loved one is tragic for all involved, but when you’re a confused youngster of five, the devastation can be much more traumatic.
For Sarah Brooks, it meant she grew up without a father, leaving her mother single and with the terrible task of explaining death to her three children.
“When dad died my brother was seven, I was five and my sister was only 18 months,” Sarah says.
“Mum was so strong, raising us by herself. She taught us right from wrong and how to be productive, respectful people.”
A driver in the 26th Transport Unit, Andrew Brooks died from a heart attack when attending a training day at the Puckapunyal base in 1997.
“When dad died we were living at the base,” Sarah says.
“Legacy gave my aunty a house at the base so she could help out … I have such a supportive family.
“Six years ago, Legacy got back in touch, stepping in to help us once again.
“My Legatee, Darryl, is great,” Sarah says.
“He goes the extra mile and his advice has been amazing.”
Now 24, Sarah is in her second year of university at Swinburne and studying for a bachelor’s degree in education.
Sarah has received the Legacy tertiary scholarship for three years in a row and says she’s really grateful.
“Legacy has helped me further my studies,” she says.
“I used to worry and stress about how I would be able to afford expenses.They pay for my books, cover my travel expenses and the scholarship has helped me buy a laptop and with study fees.
“Receiving the scholarship and the help from Legacy has taught me to appreciate the opportunities I have been given.”
After experiencing trauma at such at a young age, Sarah says that if it wasn’t for Legacy and her mum, she wouldn’t be the woman she is today.
