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🧠 MND Awareness
NEWSLETTER Solutions Centre |
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This month we are recognising and acknowledging MND Awareness Week and the impact MND (Motor Neuron Disease) has on people around the world. |
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What is MND? "Motor Neurone Disease is a progressive neurological condition that attacks the motor neurones (nerves). MND is a progressive, terminal neurological disease which can strike anyone." -MNDAWA |
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Keeping us inspired this month and raising awareness about MND is Bruce Donnelly, by sharing his personal experience with us.
"Following my diagnosed with Lower Motor Neuron Disease in March 2020, I found it difficult to continue doing my job in IT, which included a lot of walking and climbing under desks. My employer said I could continue working for as long as I felt I could, and they created a role for me within the IT branch.
I simply couldn’t allow MND (the uninvited Barnacle that attached itself to me) to control my life. I worked on for another 27-months, pushing through the pain and weakness in my legs that eventually led to me needing a wheelchair to get around the building. Thankfully, I have now retired and ‘I’m living the life’. Being single and living alone has been challenging, but I have plenty of support from family, friends, my church family, and NDIS providers. I’m learning to live in the moment, focusing on one day at a time and being content regardless of my circumstances. There have been plenty of times where I have felt down and helpless, but I don’t allow myself to stay in that headspace. I can do most things other people do, it just takes me a bit longer. I still have a lot of life to live, and I will, for as long as I can. "
How did you find out about OTSG? "I was advised by my OT from MSWA that they do not assist with car modifications and roof-topper installations. She said I would need to contact OTSG."
What services did we help you with? "At my initial appointment, my OT Luke needed to establish whether I would be able to drive a vehicle with hand-controls. Following that I did four, one-hour driving lessons in the OTSG vehicle equipped with hand controls and this concluded with an evaluation. After passing my driving test, Luke arranged for the installation of hand-controls for my car at @Freedom Motors. I also had a Braun Roof-Topper fitted to my car, which lifts my wheelchair into a sealed pod on the roof of the car during travel."
Can you tell us about your Journey with driving after being diagnosed with MND? "When I was first diagnosed, my legs were still strong. I was able to walk with a walking-stick and driving with my feet on the pedals was not an issue. Over the past three years my legs have gotten weaker, walking is a struggle and its simply not safe to rely on my feet to accelerate and brake."
What do you do nowadays to keep yourself busy and active in the community? "Being able to drive using hand controls has given me the freedom to continue enjoying independent living. I visit my family, meet friends for lunch and coffee regularly. I take myself to the shopping centre, and of course Bunnings (my second home) where I get around in my wheelchair."
What is your next big goal to achieve? "I am a keen woodworker, so I’m working toward getting help in my workshop so I can enjoy my hobby in a safe but satisfying way." |
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Thank you Bruce for sharing your story. You are a true inspiration of how to live every day to the fullest with a positve mindset! 🙏🏼
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CHOICES, CONNECTION AND SUPPORT
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Marilyn from OTSG has kindly shared her experience following the MND diagnosis of a close family member.
"It was a life-changing moment when Rob was diagnosed with MND in April 2022. His condition progressed rapidly with Rob passing recently in March 2023.
Despite the challenges that lay ahead, we were fortunate to discover a multitude of resources that supported Rob and his wife throughout their difficult journey. |
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One such source of comfort was the MND Clinic at Fiona Stanley Hospital, led by the incredible @Dr. Merrilee Needham and her team. Their understanding nature allowed Rob and his wife to navigate the impact of MND at their own pace. Even as Rob's needs became more urgent, the team exhibited extraordinary patience, never pushing them beyond what they were ready for.
Another blessing came in from @MNDAWA at Carlisle, where Tuti coordinated all equipment deliveries and pickups. Despite the rapid changes in Rob's condition and his evolving needs, Tuti handled everything with respect and patience. They ensured that the items were delivered as they were needed, understanding the importance of not overwhelming Rob and his wife. MNDAWA provided an astounding range of assistive technology (AT) at no cost – from simple to complex. This service made Rob's journey considerably easier without burdening them financially. The generosity and support by MNDAWA are to all MND clients, even those under the NDIS, ensuring a rapid response to meet each person's unique needs.
@Joan Ellis, the MNDAWA community nurse, was an unwavering source of support and knowledge. Joan's dedication and compassion were a comforting balm during our darkest moments, providing the strength we needed to keep pushing forward.
The MND team at VAD (Voluntary Assisted Dying) walked’ Rob through this difficult process with a high level of compassion.
As Rob's mobility declined, he felt confined in his home, unable to participate in the activities he once enjoyed. However, @Freedom Motors provided a modified vehicle for hire, tailored to accommodate Rob's power wheelchair. This newfound freedom was a lifeline for Rob, restoring a sense of independence and granting him the ability to reconnect with the community.
Witnessing Rob's journey first-hand opened my eyes to the devastating nature of MND, a disease that can strike anyone without warning. The kindness and compassion exhibited by the MND Clinic, MNDAWA, the MND Association, Joan Ellis, VDA and Freedom Motors formed an intricate web of support that lifted our spirits and made the journey more bearable.
In the face of such adversity, we were reminded of the strength that lies within communities when they come together to support those in need. It is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is hope and compassion to light the way." - Marilyn P
Thank you Marilyn for sharing your experience and what MND means to you. We really appreciate your story and hope this will help and inspire others with the support they have in the community. |
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Photo: MNDAWA Occupational Therapy Team. Left to right are Terrie Simpson, Sophie Nunn and Emma Vincan.
We are proud to be sharing the amazing work @MND Association Australia does for the WA community, as their goal is to enhance "the quality of life for people living with MND." Occupational therapists at @Occupational Therapy Services Group have worked closely with MND Association with their clients to loan out equipment, find support services and education.
"The MND Association of WA (MNDAWA) provides support for those living with MND. Physical, emotional and practical services are offered to provide a holistic approach to care and support.
MNDAWA now has a team of three Occupational Therapists. As these OTs work closely with our clients, they have an in-depth understanding of MND and its impact. However, every individual’s MND journey is unique.
With rapid and progressive changes to mobility, people with MND require access to a range of high-cost assistive technologies to compensate for loss of physical function.
In addition to the physical challenges this brings to the client and their carers, it also presents a significant financial challenge. The Association has an equipment pool which is available to people living with MND and can be accessed via our website.
MNDAWA was pleased to introduce a Wheelchair Rental Subsidy earlier this year, in partnership with @Glide. This allows our clients to access rental powered wheelchairs at a reduced cost making this essential equipment more accessible.
Access to a rental powered wheelchair promotes greater independence –allowing individuals to access shops and appointments, go on family outings to make memories, move around the house and backyard, and other everyday activities. For those living with MND, this can help them to live the best life they can, while they can.
In addition to the OT services, MNDAWA also provides support coordination and respiratory physiotherapy. MND Advisors provide support to those diagnosed with MND, their carers and family. Their focus is to be alongside people living and caring for someone with MND. Education on MND is provided with empathy and understanding for what is occurring in a person’s specific situation and family dynamics.
To learn more about MNDAWA services and to access equipment, please visit our @website." -MNDAWA
Thank you MNDWA for taking the time to share information about your services, and we love seeing what you do to make a positive difference to the community!! |
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Do you have any questions or a problem you want our team of experts to help you solve? We're here to help you! Just reply or send us an email and our team of experienced therapists, suppliers & engineers will work together to find you a solution! This month we were asked... What happens if the electricity goes out? Can I still use my reclining chair? I'm worried I might not be able to get out of the chair!
We invited Rianne, Occupational Therapists and Clinical Services Lead and at OTSG to help with the answer...
"Most electric recline and lift chairs have a battery backup which allows the chair to be used if the power goes out, so you won't be stuck! The power in the battery generally allows for one lift, so if you are in a reclined position and the power goes out, you'll be able to use the chair controls as normal to move the chair into a seated or standing position.
These back up batteries are not rechargeable and it is recommended that you replace the battery each year to make sure it will be ready to use, if ever needed. If you're looking into getting an electric recline and lift chair it's a good idea to confirm with the supplier if it has a battery back up. They'll be able to show you exactly where the battery is held and how to replace it.
We have a couple of electric recline and lift chairs on display at the @Solutions Centre if you'd like to trial and see how they work (It's FREE)!
There are also some recliner chairs available which operate purely from a rechargeable lithium ion battery which may also be something to consider, particularly if you plan on positioning your recliner chair in the centre of a room where a powerpoint is not close by."
Please let us know if you would like to come into the Solutions Centre for a FREE trial.
For more information and enquires about our services please contact us on (08) 9332 1783 or info@oterservicesgroup.com |
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A big congratulations to our Solutions Centre sponsors and contributors for showcasing their product and services at the Perth ATSA Expo 2023!! The team at OTSG visited the expo and it was an amazing 2 days at Claremont Showgrounds. ATSA (Assistive Technology Suppliers Australia ATSA) is about promoting AT products for a more accessible and inclusive community.👋🏼See you ATSA in 2025! 🎉A BIG ROUND OF APPLASE🎉
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CentroGlide-XT Power Wheelchair - The CentroGlide-XT power chair is designed for indoor and outdoor use. It includes built-in tilt in space and a completely customisable seating platform. Power wheelchairs are useful to maintain everyday independence for people who have mobility limitations, by removing some of the challenges that a manual wheelchair might present. |
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Icare IC111 Home Care Bed - This height adjustable bed also offers head lift and knee break. It features lockable heavy duty castors, end and side mattress retainer bars and a rechargeable battery backup. Electric profiling beds assist individuals to change positions and to get in and out of bed with less discomfort, which can be helpful for people experiencing mobility difficulties. |
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Wheeled Shower Commode - Wheeled shower commodes provides transportation during bathing and toileting tasks for individuals with limited mobility. They enable a person to be positioned over the toilet or in a shower recess and allow for easy access for hygiene during these tasks. Some commodes can be customised or additional accessories implemented to fit an individuals needs. |
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Aerolet Toilet Lift - The Aerolet is an electric toilet seat lifter with adjustable height arm supports that can be adjusted to the user's leg length. Control buttons are located on the arm support to lower or rise to/from the toilet. This product is useful for fall prevention and for individuals who experience lower limb weakness; and require assistance with sitting or standing up. |
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HAPPENINGS @SOLUTIONS CENTRE |
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Major Home Modification - Bathroom Solutions
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Bathroom modifications are commonly recommended to increase an individual’s safety and independence at home. Modifications may also enable someone to remain living in their own home, rather than having to relocate. Major questions that will be covered
1. What does the major bathroom modification process involve?
2. What information does a builder require to complete a bathroom modification?
3. What is possible to achieve in a home modification in a variety of situations?
4. What are the timelines to the completion of home modifications?
If you have been asking yourself some of the questions above, we recommend you to join us in this Ed Session and answer some questions you may have on major bathroom mods!
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Date: Thursday, 29th June 2023
⏰Time: 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
📍 Location: Solutions Centre - Unit 3/765 Marshall Rd, Malaga WA 6090
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Cost: GOLD COIN DONATION
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Thermomix
Wednesday 12th July 2023, 11 am - 1 pm |
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Gaining independence with meal preparation is an important task of daily living for many participants within the NDIS.🧑🍳 |
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Stowing &Towing Transport Solutions |
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How can we transport mobility devices safely in a vehicle?
For the answer to this question and more, join us for an Ed Session at our Solution's Centre with Freedom Motors on 'stowing and towing' options for mobility devices, including boot hoists, rooftop hoists, towbar carriers and trailers.
Freedom Motors will have their demonstration vehicles on display, so you will have the chance to see the different options in-person, and try them for yourself.
📆Date: Thursday, 14th September 2023
⏰Time: 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
🎟️Cost: GOLD COIN DONATION
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3 Turner Ave
Bentley
Western Australia
6102
Australia
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