Companion Card

14 Sep 2014: For years I have been needing to get myself a Companion Card as my carer can get in at a cheaper price or for free when I go to the movies, the tennis or man other events.

Most times the attendants at venues see that I am in a wheelchair and that I do have a carer with me and they give me the discount, however, some places demand that I show proof by showing them my Companion Card which I think is rather frustrating.

In order to get a Companion Card many hoop have to be jumped and that is why it has taken me so long to get one. I downloaded the form about 18 months ago and I have even tried to throw it out a couple of times only to have my husband retrieve it from the recycling bin and placing it back on my desk.

Finally I decided to bite the bullet and do what I had to do to get the form filled in and sent – which was quite an ordeal.

My husband asked what the issue was with filling in the form, etc., and sending it? At the end of the process he understood my frustration.

Firstly, I could not fill in the form myself as it only came in .pdf format. I overcame that by having my husband fill it in for me.

Secondly, I had to send two passport photos along with the application. When I went to get my photo taken at the Post Office I was sitting too low in my chair and so I had to sit up very straight and try to stay still. The Post Office give you six photos at a cheaper price than a camera shop who charge more and only give you four photos. The lady at the Post Office wanted to send me to the camera shop but I insisted on persevering at the Post Office and we finally got a decent shot.

Thirdly, I had to go and get the form filled in by my GP – who only treats me for colds and common everyday ailments. Finally we got the form filled in satisfactorily by the GP and the photos signed but not without feeling like I had to prove I again need a carer when attend some events.

The application for my Companion Card has been accepted and I've got my card - YAY!

If you want to get a Companion Card, go to: http to find out more.