The Autism Gold Coast organisation has expressed its deepest sympathies to the family of slain 61-year-old mother, Wendy Sleeman, describing her as an integral part of the autism support group and a “tower of strength” for mothers of children with autism.
“She was there at all times of the day to respond to phone calls, offer comfort and understanding. She gave her time so freely to help others,” the group said in a Facebook post.
“Wendy Sleeman was an was an integral part of Autism Gold Coast’s foundation group known as the Gold Coast ASD Support Group. She was a tower of strength for families, especially the mothers of children with Autism, when there was little to no support for their children on the Gold Coast.”
The organisation said Ms Sleeman had helped to form what became a monthly support group and was the group’s first coordinator, with mothers and their children meeting in her home and those of other mums in the 1990s.
“She was a power house; she championed the cause of autism by educating the community of our struggles, and advocating for funding and supports.”
It said she worked with a group of mothers which led to an Autism Queensland presence on the Gold Coast from 2003 – 2005.
“Her hard work, dedication and love for her family and community was well known. There are those of us from the early days who became long time friends. We will miss you Wendy and forever remember the significant difference you made in our lives and those of other families in the Autism community.”
