FORMER engineer Geoff Haigh had been anticipating his retirement with wife Judy, when the unthinkable happened.
Just three months after his 65th birthday, he sustained a spinal cord injury, which left him facing the rest of his life in a wheelchair.
Despite this prognosis, Geoff has overcome tremendous odds to recently take his first assisted steps.
He attributes his amazing recovery to the highly personalised and collaborative support he received from St Vincent’s Care Services, the Princess Alexandra Hospital and Spinal Injuries Australia.
St Vincent’s Care Services assisted Geoff by providing a Level 4 Community Aged Care Package.
This comprehensive and individualised care plan enabled him to return home from hospital, instead of moving into a residential aged care community.
St Vincent’s Care Services worked closely with Spinal Injuries Australia to ensure Geoff’s specific care needs were met, and Geoff has nothing but praise for everyone involved in his treatment.
“The Princess Alexandra Unit started me on the road to recovery and my St Vincent’s carers helped me maintain progress, and also aim for higher standards and greater achievements. We are eternally grateful,” he said.
St Vincent’s community co-ordinator and case manager Beth Kitoli said it was Geoff’s positive attitude that made all the difference.
“Choice is vital to a person’s recovery and Geoff takes an active role in defining both the level and delivery of his care. We are inspired by his hope, drive and endurance,” she said,
Geoff is now a busy and active member of the community.
He visits church regularly and undertakes physiotherapy, hydro-pool therapy and regular gym sessions to build his strength and co-ordination.
Geoff aspires to walk again unassisted by the end of the year so he and Judy can enjoy a long-awaited holiday.
For more information about St Vincent’s Care Services, visit svcs.org.au or call 1800 778 767.
