The Good Life: Sam

I am Sam Stubbs and I am 25 years old. I have a busy week. I like trying new things and keeping active.  

I work 3 mornings a week at the local bakery. When I started kindergarten, I used to go there to practice talking to people, asking for things and picking healthy options.  When I was 16, they asked me if I would like to work at the Bakery and I said yes! 

I am part of my local AFL club. I train with them twice a week and I play with my team on Saturdays. We always go for a beer at a local brewery after the games. I also do triathlons and Cross Fit.  About 6 months ago, I started surfing, and I love it! I can’t remember all the other stuff I have done. I like to give things ago. 

I do lots of things that I enjoy doing like riding my bike to work, going to the gym, cooking meals for the week with Jodi, my main support, playing golf, music bingo and going out with my mates. 

I have a lovely girlfriend called Ellen.  We have been on 116 dates, and in July, we will have our four year anniversary! One day, I hope we get married.

My advice to young people with Down Syndrome is to have a go at everything. Eat healthy. Get lots of exercise. Go and meet people in your community. 

I am lucky to live in a small community and know lots of people who keep an eye out and make sure that I am safe. They help me if I fall off my bike or it breaks down or if I am not sure which way to go.  

I recently moved out of home. I wanted to move because I wanted to be more independent. I went to a conference with my Mum and Dad and learnt all about moving out and was very excited to make it happen after listening to other people’s stories. I live close by to my parents with two lovely and supportive flatmates.

I love my family, my girlfriend and my mates. I have such a good life!

With thanks to Feros Care and Hiromi Matsuoka for sharing footage from Fearless Season 2. And Good Surf and Down Syndrome Australia for their permission to use video footage and imagery.