ANNUAL
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VISION MISSION World class lifestyle support, rehabilitation, education and research
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To maximise your life skills and abilities
VALUES PERSON CENTRED Respecting and promoting the rights, capacities and opportunities of all our people
COLLABORATIVE AND INCLUSIVE Fostering teamship and participation
HONEST AND TRUSTWORTHY Ethical, accountable and acting with integrity at all times
INNOVATIVE AND INFORMED Committed to learning, development and continuous improvement
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CONTENTS 06-07 26-29 08-09 30-33 10-11 34-35 12-13 36-39 14-15 40-41 16-17 42-43 18-21 44-45 22-23 46-49 24-25 50-51 Who We Are
What We Do
Royal Rehab Private
Highlights
Return2Sport
Chief Executive Officer’s Report
Royal Rehab College
Chairman’s Report
Productive Garden Project
Governance
Sargood on Collaroy
Spinal Injury Service
Research
Brain Injury Service
Volunteer Services
Lifestyle Support
Royal Rehab Foundation
Community Rehabilitation
Our Supporters 5
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WHO WE ARE Every week the life of another
Royal Rehab is dedicated to
Today, more than 100 years on,
person, another family, is changed
changing this: to enabling choice
the generosity of the community
through acquired disability or
and to creating better stories for
allows us to continue this mission
traumatic injury. Every week
people with a disability.
to maximise life skills and abilities
five more Australians sustain a spinal cord injury and another 10 to 15 suffer from traumatic brain injury. The impact of these injuries extends far beyond the point of trauma as each person faces new challenges and barriers to independence and inclusion.
Founded in 1899 through a visionary act of philanthropy, Royal Rehab was formed to help the most vulnerable in the community; to give hope, comfort and connection to hospital patients discharged as “incurable”, often with no family, money or ability to work.
WHAT WE DO Royal Rehab is a non-profit organisation providing specialist rehabilitation and disability support services for people who have acquired a disability or impairment through trauma, accident or illness. Our services include: • On-site and at-home rehabilitation for brain and spinal cord injury, including specialist spinal cord rehabilitation in regional NSW as part of a state-wide referral network for TBI and SCI • Lifestyle Support services, which provide long-term supported accommodation options and programs to support the lifestyles of people with disability in the community, such as access to training, work or recreation
through inclusion and pathways to participation for people with traumatic brain and spinal cord injury, and other complex health needs. Through our innovative projects, programs and services, we aim to provide opportunities to our clients that will foster awareness, support and inclusion in their communities.
• Outpatient and community rehabilitation services to assist and support people with a disability in their transition back to life at home and their community through programs like Return2Driving, Return2Sport and Transitional Aged Care therapy • A 24 bed purpose-built Private Hospital providing a range of intensive inpatient and day rehabilitation programs supporting recovery following surgery, trauma, chronic illness, stroke, MS, Parkinson’s or orthopaedic reconditioning. Royal Rehab is also dedicated to raising funds to support and sustain these vital programs and services that help our clients reclaim their lives and connectedness within their communities. The generosity and support of our donors allows us to continue working towards advancing rehabilitation and creating better stories with and for people with a disability.
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people in Australia have a disability Every week 5 more Australians sustain a spinal cord injury and 10 to 15 sustain a severe traumatic brain injury. People with disability in Australia are only half as likely to be employed as people without a disability. SPINAL CORD INJURY Lifetime cost per incident case
$5M $9.5M
T R AUMAT IC BR AIN INJURY Lifetime lost earnings due to workplace
dropout or reduced participation
$709.2 $91.6M billion paraplegia
quadriplegia
Lifetime lost earnings due to workplace
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T O PA RT I C I PAT I O N
B A R R I E R S
dropout or reduced participation
environmental
PEOPLE WITH D I S A B I L I T Y A R E L I K E LY
incomes physical
social
housing options
dependence on support services
*Sources: Access Economics. PWC 2011 Disability Expectations - Investing in a better life, a stronger Australia. Beer + Faulkner 2008-2009
OUR YEAR IN REVIEW REVENUE $52M ASSETS $103M
recreation opportunities
>90%
>268 specialised driving lessons
of all admissions to Royal Rehab Private completed rehabilitation programs that resulted in improved mobility, transfers, and independence
Supported 105 clients to live in a home of their choice through our network of 34 Supported Accommodation Houses across NSW
181 185 153 163
NURSES
with sport, leisure and
SUPPORT WORKERS
people with disability
clients through our Community Based Rehab Program
ALLIED HEALTH
CONNECTED >250
new clients with brain injury
ADMIN/ OTHERS
>977
87 CONDUCTED
SUPPORTED
42
new inpatient clients with spinal cord injury
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CEO’S REPORT Despite something of a bumpy start,
rights to access of service, and on
to people with a disability whilst
we are living through one of the most
individualised choice and control over
they await assessment and
significant social reforms in modern
how people with a disability purchase
acceptance into the NDIS, given the
Australia’s history. The National
their support services.
delays currently encountered. But
Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is the equivalent for people with a disability today, to the “universal access” mantra for all Australians in 1974 with the introduction of then Medibank, now Medicare – universal access to health then, universal access to individualised supports now. Whilst the scheme is somewhat sporadic in its distribution and in its operational efficiency in these early stages, in times to come there is little doubt it will have a transformative and hugely positive impact on the 10
Our focus over 2015/16 has been to ensure our existing clients and their network of families and carers, and our staff, are as informed and prepared for the introduction of the NDIS as they can be – a very challenging task given that much of the policy framework, the service
transitioning issues aside, it is most rewarding to contemplate that many of the currently unfunded initiatives practiced at Royal Rehab, to help build strong social inclusion and community participation networks for our clients, will be recognised within the scope of activities to be funded under the NDIS.
pricing and the planning landscape
Initiatives such as our Imagine Me
has been emerging and evolving over
project where clients with newly
all of this time. It is to be applauded
acquired spinal cord injury translate
that the NSW Government continues
and express in transformative
to honour its funding commitment
ways, their new reality of self in
photographic art; the wonderful
environment where Health meets
Our College emerged through a
public performances and community
the NDIS to better connect our
fairly tumultuous Commonwealth
recognition of our Lifestyle
clients to the supports necessary to
government reform of the vocational
Choir, literally giving real voice,
their transition.
training VET FEE-HELP scheme, with
huge enjoyment and a sense of participation to our clients; our Productive Garden project bringing together clients, volunteers and the local community in an innovative and effective therapeutic environment; to the many and varied opportunities for social engagement and physical participation that our clients and others in the community enjoy through our range of Return2Sport activities. These, and many other initiatives at Royal Rehab, add immeasurably to the confidence, resilience, physical and psychological well-being of many of our clients but they are initiatives which have fallen outside the traditional models of care and support, and certainly outside the contractual funding agreements with mainstream Health and Disability Service agencies. There
Ongoing out-reach development of our specialist “In-Voc” vocational training program by our Spinal Outreach Service, the development of a full suite of outpatient rehabilitation programs in our Royal Rehab Private ambulatory centre, and a sustaining Government grant for our
recognition of the outstanding quality of its small but select Allied Health internship program. Unfortunately, this uncertainty severely disrupted the recruitment of new students with little relief from the onerous compliance costs necessary to participate in this scheme.
outstanding Driver Assessment &
From a business perspective, delays
Rehabilitation Service are all reflective
in the completion of the innovative
of the important development of
spinal resort, “Sargood on Collaroy”,
client-centric services that serve to
and our own Charles Street villas have
support the widening variation in
had an adverse effect upon revenue
client requirements, under a person-
growth against forecasts during the
centred and needs driven system. Our
past year, but it is pleasing to report
Consumer Representative Council
that both of these projects are nearing
and Weemala Residents, Family &
completion and we look forward
Friends groups continue to keep us
to their successful launch later in
grounded and focused on continual
calendar 2016.
improvement in the quality, safety and effectiveness of our services.
The Royal Rehab Foundation welcomes a new Executive Director,
is much to remain optimistic about
And behind all of this is the
Lisa Cheng, as we reorientate our
regarding the National Disability
considerable ‘major projects’
fundraising efforts to support the
Insurance Scheme, above and beyond
investment in our ICT infrastructure,
many wonderful program initiatives
its early teething difficulties.
our staff management systems and
at Royal Rehab, and drive the organisational transformation from
Royal Rehab is fairly unique amongst service providers, in that we straddle these jurisdictional boundaries between Health and Disability services; State and Federal programs; inpatient, community and home care. For our clients navigating life after a major trauma or injury, these distinctions are meaningless, but the bureaucratic junctures are very real. Our teams in our Brain Injury and our Spinal Injury Units do a tremendous job in helping clients and their families prepare for this difficult transition back to ‘normal life’ in their local communities, as our home and community based services grapple with the shifting support
our safety & quality systems, to ensure we can deliver services of relevance at the right place, at the right time and at the right price. The transitioning of our facility support services to Spotless during the year under review
‘good’ to ‘great’, so vital to the wellbeing and satisfaction of our clients and staff. In what has been a most challenging year in many aspects, the dedication and commitment of my Chairman and Board of Directors, my Executive and Senior Management team, all of the diligent and passionate staff at Royal Rehab and our wonderful team of supporters and volunteers has remained focussed throughout on what matters most – the support and empowerment of our clients and their families.
was a major undertaking and we look forward to reaping the benefits of working with a major partner to
Stephen Lowndes
deliver a first class experience to all of
Chief Executive Officer
our centre-based clients, in all facets of their stay. 11
CHAIRMAN’S REPORT I am pleased to present the Chairman’s
under informal and unfunded support
the transition from the State system
Report for the 2015/16 year. The year
arrangements. The expectation as
to the federally based NDIS is sorted
has thrown up continual challenges
to the benefits of participation in the
out. We have witnessed a significant
which demonstrate a need to become a
Scheme as it is introduced is for many
impact on our capacity to release
very nimble organisation to respond to
far from clear. Cooperation between
beds for clients with newly acquired
the myriad of changes presented to us.
Federal and State agencies has also
spinal cord or brain injuries, as existing
been a challenge as administrative
clients await necessary home and
roles come under the pressure of
community based support. In this
change and resourcing. The impacts
uncertain environment I am buoyed
of the start to the NDIS are also
by the depth of our expertise and
felt in our inpatient rehabilitation
ability to respond to these challenges.
The NSW Government’s decision to bring forward the introduction of the NDIS, with nominal effect from the 1st of July 2016, in many of our operational regions, has created a level of uncertainty not only to the transition process for our existing clients, but also for many people with a disability living in the community 12
services, with access to community based support services, housing, and funding for home modifications and specialised equipment all disrupted as
We have extended our close working relationship with the NSW Minister for Ageing & Disability the Hon. John Ajaka MLC and his Department. The
Minister has been a frequent and very
We look forward to the eagerly
ways of delivering our educational
welcomed visitor to Royal Rehab
awaited completion of our Charles
platform will be pursued.
during the past year, officiating at
Street complex in this regard.
our uplifting 2015 Brain Injury Wall of Fame ceremony, inspecting our Driver Assessment and Training Service, and visiting our supported clients in their own homes. It is gratifying to note the Minister’s very real understanding, along with his Department’s commitment to the maintenance of necessary supports for people navigating transition to the NDIS.
All of the change we are experiencing
interest of Health Minister The Hon
creates the need for a great deal of
Jillian Skinner MP who has visited
diversity in traditional roles and many
during the year and State member for
of these changes have taken place and
Ryde, The Hon Victor Dominello MP
will continue into the future. The ever
maintains his close association
changing landscape draws heavily on
and support.
our resources and we have committed to ensuring we are at the forefront of technology and practice. This year we have welcomed Dr Clayton King as
The NDIS also represents considerable
our new Chief Medical Officer, whose
opportunity for future growth in
enthusiasm for this role has brought a
services provided by Royal Rehab as
new energy to the position.
locations of care deinstitutionalise. We continue to press for realistic and viable funding for our highly specialised rehabilitation services under NSW Health’s emerging Activity Based Funding regime. Opportunities for clients to experience and engage in the many restorative activities which do so much to re-establish their community connections and levels of independence must be promoted. Keeping people healthy and
We continue to enjoy the strong
Royal Rehab was again honoured by our Patron, His Excellency The Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Ret’d) Governor of New South Wales, with an invitation extended to a client representative and her family, the Chief Executive Officer and
It was also a pleasure during the
myself, to attend the visit by Prince
year past to host the first visit by our
Charles and the Duchess of Cornwell
Federal Minister for Health, The Hon.
at Government House in November.
Sussan Ley MP. Minister Ley was a
The Governor’s patronage is a most
guest of our local Federal Member
meaningful and valued one, with a
for Bennelong and strong advocate,
genuine interest and empathy for the
John Alexander, AM MP. It was a most
work we do.
timely and fortuitous visit, with the Minister and local Member meeting with several of our College Vocational Allied Health Assistant graduates.
The next twelve months will continue to deliver complex challenges and wonderful new ventures. Our Charles Street project and the
connected in their own communities
We were also visited by the Minister
management of Sargood on Collaroy,
is also an opportunity for locally based
for Vocational Education and Skills,
due to open at the end of the year,
private rehabilitation and restorative
Senator Scott Ryan who subsequently
are ambitious and innovative and
services. The expansion of our private
announced restoration of our
will draw on our clinical standards
outpatient services at Ryde informs
vocational funding for the many
and governance systems to ensure a
our expansion into other communities
enrolled students inadvertently caught
successful implementation.
with well targeted multidisciplinary
up in the Government’s reform process.
therapy services and community nursing support.
We have a wonderful and dedicated
This area has proved to be of high risk
team at Royal Rehab. Our Board,
for Royal Rehab and new and creative
management, staff and volunteers are all focused on building on our long
Affordable and accessible housing, in the areas in which people want to live and support workers want to work, remains a huge challenge for many of our clients and Royal Rehab will be exploring opportunities in this area, through strategic partnerships and our own resources.
reputation to provide best practice new approaches as we advance in a Health and Disability environment set for great change. I particularly thank my fellow Directors for their support, wise counsel and commitment to overseeing the great work that we do with energy, professionalism and passion.
Tony Staveley Chairman
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GOVERNANCE THE BOARD Mr Anthony Staveley MComm, Grad Dip (Land Econ), FAPI, FRICS, MAICD, JP Chairman Mr Anthony Wehby FCA MAICD Vice- Chairman Mr Clive Austin AM LLM, FAICD Mr David Piper OAM Mr John Cullity Grad Dip Mmgt (not pictured) Professor Richard Madden BSc. PhD, FIAA (not pictured) Ms Unis Goh PSM MA BA, JP Mr Gregory Anderson ACA, CA Professor Catherine Dean BAppSc (Physiotherapy) MA, PhD (not pictured)
THE EXECUTIVE Stephen Lowndes Chief Executive Wayne Wright Chief Financial Officer Elizabeth Drolz Director, Nursing | General Manager, Inpatient and Specialty Services Delia Gray Director, Allied Health | General Manager, Community Services Dr Clayton King Director, Medical Services
CONSUMER REPRESENTATIVE COUNCIL Caroline Bowyer Elaine Kent Jane Rothman Jane Watson Nathan Foung Prahlad Kumar Srivastrava Sue Jacobs Iwona Chrzaszcz
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SPINAL INJURY SERVICE Every week another five Australians are affected by spinal cord injury, whether acquired through an accident or medical condition. Typically arising out of transport accidents, falls and collisions with objects, and water-related accidents, spinal cord injury can lead to long-term physical disability and complications disrupting quality of life. The Royal Rehab Spinal Injury Unit offers a unique and specialised rehabilitation service focused on the client experience and dedicated to providing pathways and opportunities that enable people with a spinal cord injury to create and experience a life that is both enriching and fulfilling. Spinal injury rehabilitation at Royal Rehab aims specifically to facilitate adjustment to disability and promote self-determination, resilience and independence. The past year saw 42 new admissions for rehabilitation in the Spinal Injury Unit, comprised of 26 male and 16 female clients, with an average stay of 93 days.
The team behind the Spinal Injury Unit have worked to increase access to support for people with spinal injury. The introduction of the My Aged Care program on 1 July 2015 changed the way clients over 65 were able to access suitable levels of care and support for discharge and specialised equipment. In 2015-2016 a total of 18 clients discharged from the Spinal Injury Unit were over 65, highlighting an increasing trend for spinal cord injuries in this age group. Staff from the Unit collaborated with an external group of dedicated clinicians and the Agency for Clinical Innovation’s - State Spinal Cord Injury Service (ACI-SSCIS) network in advocacy and reintroduced access to care for people over 65 with spinal cord injury. The NSW Spinal Outreach Service (SOS) supports people with a spinal cord injury their carers and local clinicians across NSW. This state-wide service
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is delivered via two models, the Metropolitan Spinal
• The Rural Service conduct 9 rural clinics, seeing 101 clients in total; led
Outreach Service and the Rural Spinal Cord Injury Service and also takes in the Vocational Rehabilitation Program
• 79 new referrals to In-Voc to make a total of 112 people
(In-Voc), which provides support to clients with the goal of
coming through the service for the year. Of this number,
returning to work or study.
39 clients were employed, studying or participating in vocational activities. The team also piloted the outreach
The past year saw: • 89 new referrals to the Metropolitan Service and support for a total of 196 clients with the majority
model of the program (Out-Voc) with 14 referrals received including 8 from rural clinics.
referred from Royal Rehab, Prince of Wales Hospital and Royal North Shore Spinal units;
DOM PUNCH shoulders, arms, wrists, hands and
During his time with SAP Dom spent
fingers, and little to no movement
time in a virtual studio learning how
from his chest down.
to create e-business cards for the sales
After eight weeks in the Intensive Care Unit, Dom was transferred to the Royal North Shore Hospital Spinal Ward before coming to Royal Rehab in November 2015 to commence his rehabilitation. For the next few months Dom was undertaking daily Dom and the SAP team
physiotherapy and occupational therapy, learning to direct his carers
team, and observed SAP’s Design Thinking program at Commonwealth Bank’s Innovation Lab. Dom also had the opportunity to work with the Young ICT Explorers program where SAP’s exceptional web skills were shared, and engaged with SAP employees across their Sales, Business Development and Finance teams.
Dom Punch was 27 years old and, like
and use and adapt the functionality
Through the In-Voc program, clients
any other Saturday, was spending the
and mobility he had to become as
like Dom have been able to engage
afternoon playing a game of football.
independent as possible.
in innovative pathways transitioning
It was the second grade Newcastle premiership rugby union grand final. Dom was playing for his local team, the Maitland Blacks, and they were in the last few minutes, when he became a casualty in a collapsed scrum. On impact, Dom could only move his shoulders and upper arms, and began to experience difficulty breathing. They later learnt he had dislocated his C5 and C6 vertebrae, resulting in the compression of his spinal cord. Dom was rushed to John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle for emergency surgery before being flown to Royal North Shore Hospital, where he and his family learnt that the incident had left him in lifelong quadriplegia, meaning he had limited use of his
Part of Dom’s rehabilitation journey involved exploring return to work opportunities through the In-Voc initiative operated by Royal Rehab’s Spinal Outreach Service. The
them from rehabilitation to life and inclusion in the wider community, providing invaluable professional experience and opportunities to consider for the future.
In-Voc program connected Dom with
Dom is now settling in back home
SAP, a market leader in enterprise
in the Hunter. As a result of his
application software, where he was
injury, Dom will require lifelong
able to gain work experience. The
supported care day and night,
opportunity gave Dom the chance
specialised equipment, a specially
to learn new skills in IT and Digital
modified vehicle and significant
Media to add to his university
home modifications, but continues
qualifications in Communications
to remain optimistic about having
and Media Production.
a fulfilling future. He is keen to
Dom undertook placement at SAP for several weeks in June 2016 where the staff accommodated his needs, skills and interests to provide a broad and
explore online study options to further develop his technical and digital skills, with the view to pursue a career in the diverse world of digital video.
relevant work placement experience.
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BRAIN INJURY SERVICE Traumatic brain injury occurs in 10 to 15 Australians every week. Sudden and unpredictable, a traumatic brain injury has a life-altering impact on an individual’s physical, cognitive and behavioural abilities, in addition to their ability to work and participate in the wider community. Through a collaborative and goal-directed approach to specialist rehabilitation, working with allied health professionals across a range of disciplines, the Royal Rehab Brain Injury Rehabilitation Service (BIRS) team provides the vital stepping stones for traumatic brain injury clients towards achieving independence and the ability to return to their homes and their lives. In the last year a total of 87 people were admitted to the Royal Rehab Brain Injury Unit, comprised of 78% male clients and 22% female clients, with an average length of stay of 53 days.
The progress and achievements of individuals through the Brain Injury Rehabilitation Service is recognised in the Brain Injury Unit Wall of Fame, a collection of stories documenting the rehab journeys of traumatic brain injury clients at Royal Rehab. Every year a select number of clients are nominated and inducted into the Wall of Fame. This year marked a milestone for the Wall of Fame, which welcomed its 100th inductee at the annual presentation since beginning in 2003. MC Peter Overton and Minister for Disability Services, the Hon. John Ajaka MLC, introduced the eight new Wall of Fame Ambassadors, alongside Royal Rehab Director of Medical Services & Medical Director of the Brain Injury Unit, Dr Clayton King, and Clinical Operations Manager for the Brain Injury Unit, Jessica Taveira. “Your stories are the stories that motivate us, the stories that encourage us, and the stories that help us understand what we need to do,” said the Hon. John Ajaka MLC on the day. New Wall of Fame inductee, Paul Davison, was overwhelmed with joy and appreciation for inclusion of his story. “The joy of returning to Royal Rehab at this time of celebration, recognising significant survival and recovery stories of people who have defied the odds is a beautiful outcome, the best possible,” says Paul. 19
Amy, Joyce and Stan
AMY At 26 Amy’s career as an Occupational Therapist was just
of abnormal and poorly formed blood vessels called an
beginning. After graduating from the University of Sydney,
Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM). Doctors told Joyce and
Amy could not wait to start a life dedicated to creating
Stan that Amy had had this since birth.
opportunities for people recuperating from illness, and soon started in an Occupational Therapist role in a nursing home on the Central Coast, one-and-a-half hours away from her family home in Western Sydney. On the night of 14 April 2015, about five months into her new job, Amy arrived home from her daily commute. Her mum, Joyce, greeted her at the door and they bonded over
Amy was placed in the Intensive Care Unit at Westmead Hospital where she was declared “clinically brain dead”. Joyce and her family arrived at Westmead the morning after the incident and were relieved to hear that Amy was still fighting, but the next crucial step to saving her life involved removing half of her brain.
her day in the living room. Joyce stood to prepare dinner for
After two long operations doctors removed the left side
the family when she noticed Amy start to clutch at the left
of Amy’s brain completely. She was in a coma for two
side of her head.
weeks, and two months later began her rehab journey at
“She could not talk to me. Her eyes were shut and she
Royal Rehab.
started tearing her hair out,” says Joyce. “She was sweating
Amy came to Royal Rehab unable to eat or communicate.
profusely and she was throwing up. We had no idea what
She had just started slight movements in her left side
was going on.”
through physiotherapy at Westmead Hospital, but had
Joyce and her husband, Stan, rushed to phone the ambulance where paramedics thought she was just having a fit. Amy was taken to Westmead Hospital where CT scans showed she had suffered from severe bleeding in the left side of her brain that was caused by a ruptured tangle 20
little physical activity, and was still unable to acknowledge her family. Joyce wasn’t sure how she would cope. “My fear was that Amy would not be able to keep up,” says Joyce. “I was worried the staff at Royal Rehab would expect her to be able to do more.”
But her fears quickly disappeared
to include people with a range of
throughout her rehab journey and are
after watching Amy make great
disabilities, providing clients like Amy
looking forward to bringing her home
strides through her interaction with
with meaningful opportunities for
to continue the next phase of her life.
staff, from physiotherapists and
creative exploration and expression
Amy is the eldest of three girls. Her
speech pathologists to dieticians and
through adapted technology tailored
younger sister recently declined an
recreation therapists.
for all abilities.
offer to study medicine in Melbourne
Throughout her journey, Amy’s
“All the different allied health
biggest challenges have been eating
professionals are helping her in her
“From the depths of grief and despair
and talking. Removing the left side of
recovery process and her journey,”
to now having so much hope and
Amy’s brain meant she had lost the
says Stan.
opportunity is incredible,” says
part that controlled language and logic, so she arrived at Royal Rehab unable to comprehend words, such as
“We believe that without the rehabilitation that Amy received in
to stay close to her family.
Joyce.“It’s indescribable.”
a good quality of life.”
2015 BRAIN INJURY UNIT WALL OF FAME
fed through a liquid diet, but Amy and
Although she is a world away from the
her family worked closely with a team
life she once knew, Amy’s journey has
Paul Davison
of dieticians and speech therapists to
been nothing short of a miracle, and
rebuild her skills and independence.
will continue to be an ongoing process
a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’, or even open her mouth to be fed. For a while Amy was
In the past 12 months Amy has made incredible progress and is now
Royal Rehab, she would not have such
of learning and discovery as she prepares to adjust to life at home.
able to make her own meal choices
Amy’s family have been a major
and communicate her basic needs
source of support and encouragement
David Budden Peter Frotjold John Harrs Paul Hunt Rachel Johnson David Manning Danette Rowse
through words and short phrases. Amy has even discovered new artistic talents through rehab. “We only discovered that she was able to paint through the Recreation Therapist,” says Joyce. “She never had any artistic talent before, but they thought that maybe with the right side of her brain remaining, which is the creative side, she might be able to discover this ability, and when she was able to pick up the paintbrush she was able to paint. It’s so meticulous and pretty that you’d be surprised. I’m surprised!” Amy has now created four paintings through art group sessions and the Imagine Me Project. Developed by visual artist and professional art educator Sue Murray, the Imagine Me Project aims to foster greater community understanding towards people living with disability. Initially developed to empower people with spinal cord injury through innovative digital art processes, the Imagine Me Project has expanded 21
LIFESTYLE SUPPORT Royal Rehab’s Lifestyle Support
co-existing psychiatric disability and
The last 12 months have seen 10
service enables people with
significant behaviours of concern.
new clients with disability move
disability to live in a home of their choice, with the lifestyle they choose, and the supports they need. The service offers quality personcentred supports to people with a range of disabilities including brain injury, spinal injury, developmental disabilities (intellectual, autism spectrum disorder) and other degenerative neurological conditions. Lifestyle Support also caters for people with complex and changing health care needs, 22
Through Lifestyle Support services, clients receive assistance with their daily life skills, health and wellbeing, and connection with the community. This can range from assistance with personal care and household tasks, to mobility and communication support, and coordinated access to recreational activities and education and employment opportunities to help build an enriching and fulfilling life.
into Royal Rehab’s supported accommodation facilities, and two new accommodation sites secured through partnerships with housing bodies. The construction of brand new Lifestyle Villas in Putney, in partnership with NSW Family and Community service, is also nearing completion. The villas have been designed to offer total accessibility and proximity to local shops, a major retail centre and public transport, and will provide supported
accommodation for up to ten people
Care service provider with the
The Lifestyle Support team has
living with disability.
Lifetime Care and Support Authority,
commenced comprehensive
and through the NDIS has become
pre-planning to assist and support
a registered provider for services
clients with the transition to the NDIS.
Lifestyle Support is also proud to have retained full certification with the Attendant Care Industry Association Australia. The service continues to be recognised as a leading Attendant
such as supported accommodation, community participation, daily life skills, therapeutic and behavior supports, and community nursing.
people who needed 24-hour care, so at the age of 33 Paul moved to an aged care facility near Newcastle. The centre was able to provide Paul with the care and support he required, but the location meant Paul became separated from the love, care and support only his family and friends could provide. As an aged care centre, the facility also lacked the ability to provide Paul with enriching and engaging social and recreational experiences through his rehabilitation, creating an even bigger disconnect between Paul and the wider community. In 2006 Paul was registered with the Young People In Residential Aged Care (YPIRAC) initiative, and as a result was connected to the new permanent onsite supported accommodation facility closer to home at Royal Rehab known as ‘Weemala’, where he was able to Paul at a Beach Access Day
PAUL
take up residence in February 2012. Paul has lived in ‘Weemala’ for the past four years where he has been able to enjoy an active lifestyle,
In 1991 Paul was involved in a serious
continued Paul’s rehabilitation from
participating in a busy schedule of
car accident while on holiday in New
their family home, where he gradually
therapies and social and community
Zealand. He was 22, and the accident
regained his independence.
activities, including weekly swimming
resulted in a traumatic brain injury that left him unable to walk or talk.
For a while Paul was able to participate in minor part-time work, but his needs
In September 1992, after 11 months
became far greater than his family or
as an inpatient in Royal Rehab, Paul
friends could properly cater for, and the
was discharged, but the impact of the
difficult decision was made to transfer
accident was so severe that Paul still
Paul to a facility that could give him the
required 24-hour care, and so spent
appropriate support.
the next 10 years with his parents, Kev and Lyn. With the help of a dedicated group of volunteers, Kev and Lyn
and cycling, trips to the beach, art and choir sessions. With the support of his carers and a passionate group of volunteers and therapists, Paul is now able to access important rehabilitation and support in meaningful ways that keep him involved and engaged with the wider
At the time, no other facility in
community, reconnected to a social
Sydney could accommodate young
and inclusive life.
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COMMUNITY REHABILITATION SERVICE The onset of illness or injury can often result in new challenges and limitations to an individual’s ability to engage and participate as active members within their communities. To ensure a continued quality of life, enable independence, and facilitate opportunities for inclusion and participation, Royal Rehab offers multi-disciplinary programs in both community and centre based settings through the Community Rehabilitation Service. The service aims to assist clients with their reintegration into home and community life, rehabilitating their skills in line with their personal goals, to maximise their abilities and opportunities for participation.
The Community Rehabilitation Service provides
• Return2Driving – providing training, rehabilitation
support for reconditioning following medical illness,
and assessment for a person with injury, disability
orthopaedic conditions, stroke, cardiac conditions and
or illness to regain their skills, confidence and
surgery. Clients receive specialist rehabilitation through
independence in driving
a range of allied health services, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, social work, dietetics, nursing and neuropsychology.
• Stepping On – providing seniors with skills to build strength and prevent falls In 2015-2016 a total of 977 clients regained their skills,
Programs administered through Royal Rehab’s
abilities and independence through the Community Based
Community Rehabilitation Service are offered through
Rehabilitation programs. Meanwhile, more than 1200
two streams: Community Based Rehabilitation and
clients engaged with the Centre Based Rehabilitation
Centre Based Rehabilitation.
programs, including 232 clients who participated in the
Royal Rehab offers a total of four key therapy programs through Community Based Rehabilitation: • Home Based Rehabilitation Service • Transitional Aged Care Program • Northern Sydney Transition Care Unit • Lifestyle Support
Return2Driving program. The Stepping On program gained particular widespread interest from the large Korean population in the Northern Sydney area over the last 12 months. This led to the development of a Korean-based Stepping On program, with Korean-speaking allied health professionals and geriatric nurses facilitating the 7-week strength training program. This is the first Korean Stepping
Three key programs are offered through Centre
On program, which has already been translated into 17
Based Rehabilitation:
languages, and the overwhelmingly positive response
• Public Outpatients – providing tailored individual
received from participants of the sessions run so far lays a
and group therapy 24
promising foundation for the program’s continued success.
SAM In 2013 Sam faced one of his biggest challenges when a blood clot in his brain landed him in hospital for emergency surgery and four months in the Intensive Care Unit. Sam had suffered from a stroke. “You are a miracle and very lucky,” Sam recalls being told by medical staff at the time. When he was stable enough to be moved, Sam was transferred to inpatient rehabilitation for another four months, before going home and starting home based rehabilitation and outpatient therapy with Royal Rehab. At the beginning of his therapy Sam had limited use of his left arm and found it difficult to walk, speak and swallow. For some time after his stroke, Sam felt his condition was not improving, but remained hopeful in his recovery. “I met physiotherapists, occupational therapists and speech therapists at Royal Rehab who helped me learn to walk without a stick, use my left arm and talk again,” says Sam. During his rehabilitation, Sam also regained his skill and ability to drive by completing a Driver Rehabilitation program offered by Royal Rehab’s Return2Driving service, which provides people with a disability or age-related condition with the opportunity to regain their independence through driving. Sam successfully completed the program and is ecstatic about having his licence again. For Sam, it was the time spent with his peers in therapy groups that he found most rewarding and motivating during his rehabilitation. The peer support in particular provided for Sam a constant reminder to “never give up”. Sam is now getting back to his life and is grateful for the people who supported him throughout his rehabilitation journey, particularly his therapists and his wife. Sam’s journey from battling a life-changing condition to returning to life as an active member of his community has been a long but rewarding one, with 2016 seeing him make the most progress and improvements since he started his rehabilitation. Sam considers 2016 as his best year yet and never rests except for in bed at night.
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ROYAL REHAB PRIVATE Royal Rehab Private is dedicated to improving the quality of life for clients with intensive rehabilitation needs. From clients needing post-operative care or reconditioning, to those requiring rehab for orthopaedic conditions, stroke, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s and other neurological conditions, Royal Rehab Private provides an individualised rehab plan tailored to each client’s needs. The rehabilitation programs conducted through Royal Rehab Private, as with the centre’s other services, are designed to enable clients to return to their daily lives with a renewed confidence and independence. In 2015-2016, a total of 549 clients were admitted into the Private inpatient unit, 119 Private Day Program clients returning to independence and participation in the wider community as a result of their intensive rehabilitation programs. The majority of inpatient clients were treated for orthopaedic conditions (47.53%), followed by reconditioning (26.33%) and neurological conditions (10.79%), with 43% male and 57% female, and an average length of stay of 14 days. Clients ranged from 22 to 98 years old. Similarly, Private Day Program clients ranged from 25 to 93 years old, with the vast majority of clients engaging with rehabilitation for orthopaedic conditions. The clients were comprised of 63% male and 56% female. Overall, more than 90% of all admissions to Royal Rehab Private completed rehabilitation programs that resulted in improved mobility, transfers, and independence with dressing and grooming. This year Royal Rehab Speech Pathologists and clinicians in the Outpatient Department have been trialling Expiratory Muscle Strength Training (EMST) in a group therapy setting to explore methods for increasing respiratory support for speech in clients and determine the effectiveness of a group setting in conducting the therapy. The group was held in the Outpatient Department, with the clinicians working collaboratively to analyse the results, with a view to presenting their findings at a conference next year. Clients with Multiple Sclerosis who have been admitted to Royal Rehab Private for reconditioning have shown particular benefits from using EMST. The Private Day Program provided Speech Pathology services to an increasing number of clients with Parkinson’s Disease in 2016 who participated in the specialised Lee Silverman Voice Therapy Program (LSVT) at Royal Rehab as a method increase their voice volume and intelligibility.
27
MARLENE For several years Marlene was experiencing severe pain in her right knee that prevented her from walking long distances and bending her leg. The pain caused such discomfort that it was impacting her quality of life. Eventually Marlene decided the only way to improve her life was through surgery. Marlene underwent a total knee replacement at Macquarie University Hospital in November 2015 and was recommended to seek in-patient rehabilitation services to help with the recovery process. As a result, Marlene was admitted to Royal Rehab Private for her rehabilitation and recovery in December 2015. Although still in pain following the surgery, Marlene was determined to walk again. “I had so many emotions: I was hopeful, in despair, teary because of pain and because I still could not bend my knee,” says Marlene. “I felt apprehensive as I was being transferred to Royal Rehab.” But her apprehension faded once she arrived. “The hospital was light and airy, the staff all smiles and empathetic and after sitting what seemed to be a long time in some pain, I was wheeled to my own room. What relief!” recalls Marlene. “The room was clean, it had a nice balcony, and I could look out to the trees. The bed was comfortable and a nice size so that I didn’t feel as if I would fall out. I could move it up and down to help me get in and out of bed. The bathroom was clean and set up with a chair and a special chair over the toilet. These are things that most people would think don’t matter, but for me, they were vital for comfort.” Marlene was an inpatient at Royal Rehab Private for 10 days and continued therapy as an outpatient thereafter where she participated in a regulated rehabilitation program involving physiotherapy, hydrotherapy and occupational therapy to rebuild the strength and function in her knee. She found the dedicated care and support she received through her one-on-one physiotherapy sessions particularly helpful in her recovery. “The one-on-one sessions helped me to focus on the areas that I felt were my weak points,” says Marlene. “We discussed what I wanted to achieve from the sessions, my goals and what I needed to do to achieve my goals. I had a great deal of confidence in the staff, the care they provided and the physical aspects of care.” Before long, Marlene was back on her feet, and just five months after her operation, had climbed to historic South American landmarks in Peru, including the Temple of the Sun at Ollantaytambo Ruins and Machu Picchu. “This climb would have been impossible without my knee operation and the intensive efforts of the staff at Royal Rehab, especially the physiotherapists,” says Marlene. For Marlene, her rehab journey enabled her to reconnect with her life in a meaningful and fulfilling way, but it also brought with it a new understanding and appreciation for life.
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Marlene in Peru
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RETURN2SPORT Return2Sport is an innovative recreation therapy program providing opportunities for people living with a disability to participate and engage in sport, recreation and leisure pursuits as independently as possible. Since its launch in 2011 Return2Sport has grown to include 10 activities promoting pathways to participation for people with disability: tennis, cycling, adaptive yoga, golf, Snow Sport Camp, Come n Try Tuesdays, multi-sport days, para climbing, beach access program, fencing and education workshops. Interest and engagement with the Return2Sport initiative continues to grow as it offers clients with new and unique ways to participate in recreation activities. In the past year Return2Sport has delivered access to sport and recreation to more than 250 clients.
The program is paving the way for participation from entry level up. Development clinics and advocacy for para-climbing saw the introduction of a disability category for the sport in the NSW Championships in 2015. Three people who attended the Return2Sport para-climbing clinics participated in the State Championships and qualified at the National level. In early 2016 the new Return2Sport Beach Access Program was introduced with the support of a grant from Surf Lifesaving. The program attracted 61 participants in its first year and was developed to show people with a disability the most effective methods for accessing beach and coastal communities. Through a combination of demonstrations, education and adaptive equipment, participants in the program, their families and carers, as well as the local community, were introduced to a safe and integrated approach to beach access. A disability course is currently in development for inclusion with pre-season Lifeguard training to support the aims of the Beach Access program. Recommendations are also being made for appropriate and necessary equipment to improve accessibility to beach precincts for people with a disability. Return2Sport has also developed an adaptive surfing program, working one-on-one to help people with a disability fulfill their interests and potential in surfing and water-based pursuits. The Beach Access Program has paved the way for collaboration, understanding and shared knowledge in beach access, while providing an opportunity for people with a disability to develop confidence in their skills and abilities to engage in and with the wider community. In 2016 Return2Sport was recognised for this innovative approach as the recipient of two grants from the NSW Office of Sport and Lifetime Care for the establishment of three pilot groups for the Moving Faster exercise program and the weekly cycling clinics at the Newington Armory cycling hub. 31
Lee at the snow camp
LEE
That afternoon, while working on his
at the start,” says Lee. “All things
bike, Lee decided to take a break and
run through your mind, but my
hopped on his motorbike for a quick
first thought was my kids and not
Lee is a former client of the Royal
ride down his street. Just 500 metres
being able to do things with them.
Rehab Spinal Injury Unit where he
away from home, Lee was turning
Everything we did together had to do
spent two-and-a-half months learning
onto a side street, when he crashed
with me having legs. I felt like I was
how to adjust to life in a wheelchair.
into an oncoming vehicle. Fortunately
letting them down. How was I going
the other driver escaped with only
to provide for them?”
It was a Saturday afternoon in April 2015 when life for Lee and his family changed. Lee had just arrived home
minor injuries, but Lee doesn’t remember any of this.
Lee spent 11 weeks in hospital before transferring to Royal Rehab to start
from his son’s football game and
“My last memory was driving home
his rehabilitation. Although keen to
spent the rest of the day working on
from my son’s football game,” says Lee.
be another step closer to home, Lee
his motorbike in the garage at his Northern Beaches home where he lived a busy and active lifestyle with his partner, Rozina, and two sons, Nixy, 13, and Jet, 5. A fan of the outdoors, Lee was an avid surfer and snowboarder, and spent a lot of time playing sport with his children. “I was always someone who was really physical,” says Lee.
32
Lee’s knowledge of how his life changed has come through information relayed by witnesses and reports from the day. He doesn’t
had his reservations about his ability to relearn his skills and regain his independence after a serious accident had such a severe impact on his life.
remember the first time he was told
“I was nervous because they talk it up
he would never walk again, but recalls
at the hospital. They tell you things
the moment he first registered this
like, ‘You’re going to have to do things
information as “crushing”.
for yourself, not like in hospital,’” says
“It’s like life was pretty much over
Lee. “My biggest worry was if I’d be able to fend for myself.”
Lee spent the next few months
by Return2Sport Program Manager
encourages individuals to stretch their
learning how to get in and out of bed,
and Professional Leader of Recreation
mental and physical capacity while
dress, use the bathroom, and drive
Therapy, Sebastian Van Veenendaal.
raising vital funds for charity.
“I was initially self-conscious in the
Rehabilitation has been a challenging
wheelchair because people look at
yet eye-opening journey for Lee, who
you. It’s ironic that Beach Access Day is
says the hardest part of his transition
at Bondi, one of the busiest beaches,
back home has been coming to terms
but when you’re doing it, it’s nothing.
with the beginning of his new life -
You don’t care about it anymore. It
his new “normal” - as a person with
Coming from an active lifestyle, Lee
gives me knowledge about the best
a disability. But he has come out the
had to draw upon a lot of patience
way to go about it [beach access] and
other side with a new and refreshed
through his rehab journey, but his
confidence that I can go and do it
look on life, committed to making the
first introduction to sport during a
myself and adapt it to my beach.”
most of each day.
Lee is relishing in the abilities and
“I wish I had known more about
independence he has regained
disability prior to rehab, because these
through rehab, from driving to access
are the most amazing people. I feel
to sport and recreation opportunities.
like I was not doing enough as an able-
a modified car. He spent every day building his strength in the gym and learning wheelchair skills so he could grow the confidence and ability to move around as independently as possible.
hydrotherapy session at Royal Rehab brought a renewed outlook on living life with a disability. “Back in the pool, I realised I wasn’t going to sink like a rock. It was a light bulb moment for me where I suddenly thought, ‘Yeah, I can go into the ocean again,’” says Lee. Suddenly Lee found himself excited about the opportunities introduced to him through rehab that enabled him to participate in activities that made life meaningful and enriching for him, despite being in a wheelchair.
“I didn’t think I would be able to do these things again,” says Lee.
bodied person,” says Lee. “I started rehab thinking my life was over, but it does get better, and you can lead a
Lee’s next adventure will be the 2016
normal life. Anything is possible. If you
Return2Sport Snow Camp. He has
have the motivation and desire, you
also recently started swimming
can do anything.”
regularly and hopes to represent Royal Rehab in the 2017 Cole Classic in February, an open-water swimming event held annually in Manly that
“It isn’t the end of your life. You name it, someone out there is doing it,” says Lee. “I didn’t believe it at first, but I have no doubts about it now.” Through his rehabilitation Lee was introduced to Royal Rehab’s Return2Sport program. He continues to participate in the program as a former client and jokes that he has become more involved with Royal Rehab through Return2Sport after going home. Lee was a participant of the first Return2Sport Beach Access Day, where he enjoyed a unique rehabilitation experience that introduced strategies and techniques for accessing the beach as a person with a disability. “The sensation of skimming across the waves again was epic,” says Lee, who was accompanied into the ocean
Lee and his family 33
2015-16 college graduates
ROYAL REHAB COLLEGE A series of Disability Awareness, Risk Management and The Royal Rehab College provides a range
Medication Management workshops were held throughout
of specialist accredited and non-accredited
the year, together with industry workshops on Autism
courses, to help build capacity and expertise
and Dementia all focused on community based support
in the health and disability sector. Our Allied
workers providing services under the National Disability
Health Assistance internships provided a unique
Insurance Scheme.
opportunity for vocational students studying at the Certificate III and IV level, to work with skilled professional supervisors in a very specialised clinical setting, within our state of the art Rehabilitation Centre at Ryde.
34
Minister for Vocational Skills & Education, Senator Scott Ryan, chose Royal Rehab as the venue to make an important announcement of the Commonwealth reforms to the Vocational Education and Training student assistance scheme, to recognise and support quality education providers.
MARCIA Going back to school at 58 years
around. Before retiring, Marcia had
old would be unthinkable for most
studied as an Enrolled Nurse at
people, but not for Marcia. Although
Northern Sydney TAFE and spent time
retired for nine years, Marcia kept
working in palliative care. Her sister
herself busy with managing and
suggested rehabilitation would be
maintaining several properties, but
a good avenue to pursue, and one
there was something still missing
Marcia would be suited to, so with
from her life – a “gap” that needed to
her sister’s help and support Marcia
be filled – until she came across Royal
began her search for relevant courses,
Rehab College.
which is when she discovered the
Coming from a family of 10, Marcia was used to being around people
allied health courses offered at Royal Rehab College.
and enjoyed the company, but after
When exploring her options at the
watching her sons leave home and
College, Marcia initially planned to do
living alone for several years she
the course by correspondence, but
noticed that it was the presence of
through a chance enquiry learnt of
people that she had been missing
the unique professional placement
from her life.
opportunity offered through the
“The loneliness really started to set in,” says Marcia. Guided by her sister, June, who manages a private rehabilitation unit in Canberra, Marcia started looking for something to fill her “gap”.
internship program, and within just four days Marcia was one step closer to achieving her goal. The 6-month intensive course provided students like Marcia with a learning experience that balanced theory and practice, offering the
Marcia
worked 30-hour weeks since. Marcia particularly enjoys meeting a wide range of clients from Royal Rehab’s different departments and services, and finds constant reassurance in the positive feedback she receives from clients and their families. “I hear them in the water say, ‘This is the place you need to be to get better’” says Marcia. “For me it’s a dream job.”
In 2015 Marcia travelled to India where
invaluable opportunity to transfer
Always keen for her next challenge,
she spent four weeks volunteering
their knowledge straight from the
Marcia keeps her schedule busy,
in a community school, teaching
classroom to a clinical setting.
filling her spare time with opportunities
English and computer skills to young children and adult women. She was working in a small room with broken computers and had to learn Hindi on the go, but the experience ignited her passion and willingness to be part of something again.
“I loved the contact with people again,” says Marcia. “The first day you walk into this place you feel like you’re home, and I’m a people person. Having that interaction with clients and being able to assist them and
to work with clients in the Outpatients department, assisting with the Stepping On strength training program, and maintaining her skills and knowledge in land-based therapy through training in transitional care programs.
watch them through their recovery,
“I’m just lucky because I love what I do,”
“It’s very humbling to work in a
it’s a very rewarding thing to be a
says Marcia, who credits the College
community school; the people are
part of.”
for opening the door to an opportunity
so grateful,” says Marcia. “That was the thing that taught me that there’s nothing you can’t do. I quickly learnt in India that without me there, these people had no one to teach them.”
Two months into the course, a position for an Allied Health Assistant in Royal Rehab’s Hydrotherapy service became available. Marcia successfully
that would change her life and fill the “gap” that she had been struggling with. And she isn’t the only one who has noticed.
applied for the role and began casual
“My friends and family can see what’s
Marcia returned to Australia
work in Hydrotherapy by Christmas
changed for me in the last 12 months,”
in September with a drive and
2015 while completing her studies. In
says Marcia. “I can now say I’ve really
motivation to get back into the
March 2016, ahead of her graduation
found my happy place.”
workforce, so she began to look
in May, Marcia’s role evolved into a part-time position and she has 35
PRODUCTIVE GARDEN The Royal Rehab Productive Garden is a novel approach to rehabilitation, encouraging learning through participation and providing clients with rehabilitation in the context of everyday settings and activities. Launched in June 2015, the Productive Garden Project paves the way for clients’ eventual integration and engagement with the wider community. The Project encompasses the commitment to promoting client wellbeing and participation in rehabilitation at Royal Rehab. Engagement with the Productive Garden has generated positive sentiment from clinicians and remarkable improvements in client outcomes. Over the past 12 months a total of 147 therapy sessions from across all disciplines, each ranging between 1 and 10 clients, have used the space for various rehabilitation needs. From the promotion of general health, wellbeing and participation in Lifestyle Support and Recreation Therapy, to targeted physiotherapy and occupational therapy needs for clients in the Brain and Spinal Injury Units, the Productive Garden has provided a unique and innovative platform that enhances the rehabilitation experience.
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37
Bunnings staff volunteering in the Garden
At the heart of the Productive
clients as part of their upper limb
operation and success of the project.
Garden Project is the enthusiasm
program. At the time, Claire had
Claire was up for the challenge.
and commitment of Claire Boyle.
commenced a Horticulture course at
Armed with both innate passion and
TAFE, and to source some insight and
knowledge, Claire has been the
support for the case for a rehabilitation
front woman and campaigner for
garden, joined a garden committee in
the Productive Garden and has
her local area.
seen the project evolve from concept to reality.
Meanwhile, plans around the implementation of a Productive
Claire had been working as an
Garden to facilitate the ‘participate to
Occupational Therapist in the Spinal
learn’ model of rehabilitation at Royal
Injury Unit at Royal Rehab when she
Rehab were already taking place under
developed an interest in horticultural
the leadership of Nursing Research
therapy. In 2013 she began
& Development Leader, Associate
conversations with her colleagues
Professor Julie Pryor. One of the missing
about incorporating a garden element
elements was being able to find an
to rehabilitation for their spinal injury
individual dedicated to managing the
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After months of establishing the infrastructure for a Productive Garden on the main campus of Royal Rehab, Claire was appointed Project Officer and has grown the initiative from the ground up. “The first six months of the Project was all about having a go,” says Claire. “The role of Project Officer is so different to standard clinical roles; there was no template to follow, only the guiding principles of the Project. This has meant freedom to try out new ideas – both my own and ideas from other staff and clients.”
The project attracted widespread
“The Garden is about empowering
equipment, seeds and plants received
interest and support from staff who
them to make their own choice in how
from Bunnings, Engalls Nursery and
welcomed the engagement with
they want to participate.”
Swaines Nursery, and corporate
“general recreation rather than structured therapy”. The staff were quick to jump on board, donating a collection of plants and gardening resources, sharing their horticultural skills and knowledge, and volunteering their time to water the garden and work alongside corporate volunteers to build the garden space. “This is a project that enables clients to work on therapeutic goals through the medium of gardening and consequently obtain the psychological and physiological benefits of gardening,” says one staff member. The project introduced a new and
Clinicians have reported on the remarkable progress clients have made following multiple therapy
The Productive Garden Project has made a considerable impact on the
clients’ rehabilitation journeys.
lives of both clients and clinicians
“The garden can give people the feeling that there is more to life than hospital. [They] can express their personalities in the garden,” said one staff member. “You’re opening your mind up instead of being isolated.” Another staff member shared their
providing a meaningful and
client’s feedback that “gardening
therapeutic experience with added
soothes the soul” and, within three
social, mental and physical benefits.
days, noticed a dramatic change in
Clients gain experience in applying
their client’s attitudes and abilities.
using a PVC pipe and removing crops at the end of the season, and through these activities are able to exercise sitting balance, reaching and upper limb rehabilitation.
he tends to the seedlings and sits to breathe in the fresh air. Previously, staff struggled to engage with the client and get him out of bed. Now, he eagerly showers and dresses in the
gardening tools and recycled plastic
staff member.
their therapy after discharge. Rehabilitation through the Productive Garden is also conducted in a way that fosters independence by putting the clients in control, encouraging them to make decisions based on their own knowledge and interests,
The client has shown improvements in mobility and an enthusiastic approach to rehabilitation.
in May Claire was nominated to accept the Rotary Club of Ryde Pride
“Claire is driven by a passion for productive gardening,” said Julie in her nomination speech. “Her endless enthusiasm, energy, and goodwill will make her a wonderful ambassador for Royal Rehab’s commitment to improving rehabilitation in this Productive Garden Project.” For Claire, who is also a talented Taiko drummer (Japanese drumming), the Productive Garden has been a
“The client previously tolerated 15
wonderful exploration of creativity
minute physiotherapy sessions. Now
and possibility, and also for our
I cannot get him to leave a 60 minute
clients and clinicians who tend to the
gardening session! This lovely man has
therapeutic space every week. She
reminded me that as a clinician I must
hopes that with continued support
always treat the person before I treat
it will continue to grow and be
the patient, said the staff member.”
recognised as an innovative practice.
such as deciding on seeds to plant and
The Productive Garden has been
the best techniques to use in their
funded through donations to our
gardening approach.
Foundation and has engaged the
“The clients are in control,” says Claire.
efforts have not gone unnoticed;
Productive Garden Project.
with his hat in his hand,” said the
way to encourage clients to continue
a difference in rehabilitation. Her
taken down to the garden where
equipment such as children’s
can be transferred to home life as a
enjoyed watching it grow and make
of Workmanship Award for the
morning and sits ready and waiting
used to demonstrate techniques that
at Royal Rehab, and Claire has
“Every morning since, this client is
Accessible tools and re-purposed
bottle watering cans are purposely
and artwork for the garden.
the added value the space has given to
to engage in their rehabilitation,
weight equipment, planting seeds
engaged in planting and creating signs
sessions in the Productive Garden, and
exciting way for clients and clinicians
soil preparation materials using light-
volunteers from Allianz and Roche
wider community, with donations of
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SARGOOD ON COLLAROY “To be recognised globally as the place where people with
These appointments will now see the initial offering
spinal injury want to come to refresh, learn and connect”
of programs and services developed including a diverse range of conferences and courses covering a range
Construction of the new Sargood on Collaroy Resort
of topics from parenting, and building resilience to
is near completion and is scheduled to launch in December 2016 with the first intake of guests expected in early 2017.
Sargood Foundation and consumers over the last year to appointed the new Resort Manager, James Daikin and Program Managers, Jessica Allen and Alex Renkart.
recreation retreat. Our discussions with the National Disability Insurance
Royal Rehab has worked in partnership with the bring the Vision for the resort to life. We have recently
wheelchair use and maintenance, travel and a
Agency have resulted in agreement from them on proposed services including funding transition, pressure injury management, return to independence programs and courses, family planning and parenting. We will continue to engage with them on the possibility of funding leisure stays under the NDIS.
THE SARGOOD ON COLLAROY TEAM HEIDI HAYDON Consumer I first went through spinal rehabilitation in December 2009 as a result of a motorbike crash that left me a T4 complete paraplegic. My first exposure to Sargood was post injury around 2011. I was drawn to the concept based on my own rehabilitation experience and the lack of time available to adjust and achieve my goals while in rehab. It took me about a year and a half to master my new life and I’m now living it up. I love that it is an endless learning experience. It has been a few years now since working at Sargood and I am so excited to be a part of it again; to share my lived experience and the experiences of others with guests at Sargood on Collaroy. I hope my knowledge will add to the resources available at the resort to help shorten the time it takes for people with a disability to get back to who they truly are and achieve what they want in life, whether it is to be more independent, have a go at new life experiences or gain employment. I know Sargood on Collaroy will achieve this and assist those with a spinal injury or similar to be confident human beings who are comfortable in their skin. 40
JESSICA ALLEN Program Manager My passion for the field of Spinal Cord Injury inspired my decision to pursue a career in Occupational Therapy and I have been fortunate enough to develop my capacity in the field with roles at both Prince of Wales and Royal North Shore Hospitals. My approach is centered on the individual and on connecting people with activities and experiences that will enhance their daily life in the long-term. This vision was the focus of the projects and research I initiated in my clinical roles and my exciting role at Sargood on Collaroy is a natural extension of my interests and initiatives. As a Northern Beaches local I know the positive benefits of our natural setting, but I am also sure that the links we will forge with the welcoming, positive, can-do local community will be of equal benefit.
ALEX RENKERT Program Manager As a Physiotherapist, I have spent the majority of the last 10 years working with people living with spinal cord injuries in acute care facilities, rehabilitation units, through research projects and in community outreach programs. Over that time, it has become very apparent to me that the opportunity to escape the stresses and routine of normal life and connect with others in the community is less accessible for people living with a spinal cord injury. I see Sargood on Collaroy bridging this gap by providing a wellness haven on stunning Collaroy beach where you can come and relax, have fun with family and friends, refresh and perhaps try or learn something new. As a Manly local I cannot wait to open the doors of Sargood on Collaroy and deliver an opportunity for all to have a sea-change.
JAMES DAIKIN Resort Manager As owner and operator of the local 220 bed Youth Hostel, I join Sargood on Collaroy with extensive experience in the travel and hospitality industry. I’ve also seen firsthand the magic of Collaroy and how a stay at the beachside can revive people. I’ve watched the site develop over the past year and am excited at the opportunity of working with the Sargood team to bring the Foundation’s Vision to life in this innovative, purpose-built resort. I am also looking forward to sharing my passion and experience of living and working in the local area, with the many people with spinal cord injury and their families who will come to not only enjoy a luxury holiday but to connect with the community, learn and participate in our programs.
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RESEARCH Royal Rehab aspires to be Australia’s
Amongst our organisation’s core
informed, evidence based practice
leading rehabilitation and disability
values is a commitment to the
across all of our services.
support provider, respected not
learning and development of our
only for our clinical, research and
staff, and a culture and practice
teaching excellence but also for the
of continuous improvement in
practical programs we employ to
relation to the quality, safety and
support the real life challenges faced
effectiveness of our services. Royal
by people with disability.
Rehab is committed to research
This focus continued in 2015-16 with a range of research projects all aimed at establishing an integrated model of research and clinical practice that will ultimately lead to better outcomes for our clients.
RESEARCH IN FOCUS RECONFIGURING MASCULINITY FOLLOWING SPINAL CORD INJURY This study used indepth face to face interviews and life history method to identify how men reconstruct masculinities following spinal cord injury (SCI). All 15 men in this study resumed life after a SCI within the context of an altered functional self. By the time they entered the study, some 20 weeks had passed since their original accident. During that time all the men had been hospitalised in an acute hospital for an average of 10 weeks for life saving treatment of their various injuries. Many had injured multiple body parts and by the time they were transferred to inpatient rehabilitation were experiencing bodily limitations additional to those resulting from the SCI. By the second and final interview, on average 62 weeks had passed since their SCI and each man had been discharged from inpatient rehabilitation for about 6 months. At this time it was apparent that none of the men felt that inpatient rehabilitation care had adequately prepared them for the life that lay ahead. For many it was “quite scary getting back out in the real world”. In both hospital and community settings, the men were involved in 42
working out what they could, and could not, do with their bodies, but in hospital the range of activities was very limited which meant many experienced shock about the complexities of everyday life at home. “I’m back in the real world. I’ve got shopping to do and family to deal with and relationships with my wife and my daughter and my son. Then on top of that you’ve got doctor’s appointments, meetings with care coordinators, meetings with care staff members from the agencies. It just becomes extremely overwhelming. It doesn’t feel like there’s anybody that can help you with the day-to-day stuff, the little stuff.” Reconfiguring the self was about each man reconfiguring the way he went about being a man and experiencing how he felt about that; this happened in both inpatient rehabilitation and the community. The goal/purpose of this work was to live a personally meaningful life and central to this for each man was actively engaging in life by ‘doing with the body’. All the men in this study wanted their pre SCI life back. They wanted to resume ‘doing with the body’ as they had done in the past as doing in its various forms was a primary determinant of each man’s identity. Some seemed to expect this would happen once they were out of
hospital; others were more realistic in wanting back as much of their pre SCI life as possible. The drive to be active participants in life through ‘doing with the body’ was strong; the men in this study did not consider being passive recipients or observers of life to be an option for them. As many automatic acts of ‘doing with the body’ were no longer possible, the body and life had to be approached and engaged with differently. In so doing, they were reconfiguring their masculinities not only in the activities they chose to do with their bodies but in the work they had to do in order to be able to actively participate in their chosen activities. They had to change most, if not all, aspects of how they lived as a man, including how they cared for their bodies, worked on their bodies, navigated natural and human-made physical environments, negotiated social and attitudinal environments, established their economic context and managed their emotions. Activities that previously required little, if any, thought or effort now required conscious effort and commonly the assistance of others. The findings of this study suggest we need to rethink rehabilitation following SCI to better prepare men for everyday life after inpatient
rehabilitation. Consideration needs to be given to how best to make reconfiguring the self within the reality of everyday life the central tenet of SCI rehabilitation programs. Of particular benefit would be more focus on peer support and locating these services in less clinical and more
homelike settings. This study was conducted by Murray Fisher (Associate Professor in the Faculty of Nursing & Midwifery University of Sydney and Nursing Scholar in Residence at Royal Rehab and Associate Professor Julie Pryor
(Nursing Research & Development Leader at Royal Rehab and Clinical Associate Professor Faculty of Nursing & Midwifery University of Sydney). The study was funded by the Transport Accident Commission through the Institute of Safety, Compensation and Recovery Research.
CURRENT RESEARCH PROJECTS Effectiveness of combining serial casting with Botulinum Toxin for the management of ankle contractures after traumatic brain injury: a randomized controlled study
SABIR : Development of a standardised assessment tool (Systematic Assessment for Brain Injury Rehabilitation - SABIR) for patients and it’s correlation with functional outcome measures
SCI Pain Project
COMPARE
Recommended bowel care practices in spinal injury units
Internal Evaluation of the Northern Sydney Intellectual Disability Health Team Pilot
Evaluation of the HETI training module: Stigma, Discrimination and Injecting Drug Use
Investigation of e-Health strategies used by health care professionals
Problems accessing help with bowel care
Bridges Self Management of Stroke
Very Early Rehabilitation in Speech (VERSE)
A Novel Method to Apply Serial Casting for Ankle Plantarflexion Contractures: a case report
Emotion perception disorders following traumatic brain injury: an experimental approach to remediation
Clinicians experiences and perceptions of using motivational interviewing
Is reuse of intermittent urethral catheters safe and preferred? A prospective, observational study evaluating reuse catheters and switch to single use
Resistance training for partially paralysed muscles in people with SCI
Community Aphasia Groups for Living Well with Aphasia
AphasiaScripts conversation treatment for people with brain injury
Methylphenidate in adults with severe traumatic brain injury for the enhancement of recovery (MASTER)
Activity Levels of patients in rehabilitation
Evaluation of the Vocational Intervention Program (VIP)
The Nursing Practice of Men in Inpatient Rehabilitation Across Australia
Brain Injury Unit Physiotherapy Survey
Falls following a TBI within the specialised TBI rehab context
Clinical and neuroimaging assessment for focal brain lesion research
Goal setting with an iPad in neurological rehabilitation
Investigation of vocational programs and outcomes for people with traumatic brain injury in NSW: interviews of client experiences
Cognitive rehabilitation following traumatic brain injury: an exploration of current practice
ES Cycling for people with ABI
Meaningful occupation after TBI: PEPA
Using telehealth for social communication skills training for people with tbi and their carers
Prospective memory: A theoretical evaluation and the development of standardised questionnaire
Right Care, Right Time, Right Place: Improving Outcomes for people with spinal cord injury through early access to intervention and improved access to specialised care
A comparison of errorless learning and error-based learning for improving functional performance following traumatic brain injury
Spirituality and resilience after SCI
Resilience and caregiver study
The remaking of masculinities following spinal cord injury
Ankle contracture and traumatic brain injury
Investigating the effect of intensity of aphasia therapy on communication outcomes in people with aphasia
Resistance training for partially paralysed muscles in people with SCI 43
VOLUNTEER SERVICES Volunteers play a vital role in supporting staff and
Rehab. In the last 12 months Royal Rehab welcomed 101
helping to enhance the rehabilitation experience
new volunteers to the organisation who have provided
of clients and the holistic approach to patient care
companionship and support to clients throughout
at Royal Rehab. From administrative support and
their rehabilitation. Volunteers have engaged with
assistance in community homes, to accompanying
staff and clients in Allied Health Weeks, fundraising
clients to community events and providing
events such as the Royal Rehab Gala, community
companionship during therapy sessions, volunteers
outings, and recreational activities, such as the All
at Royal Rehab are involved in a wide range of
Abilities Disco and the Lifestyle Choir. Their interaction
activities across the organisation.
with clients in particular has helped to provide care
There are currently 177 volunteers ranging in age from 14 to 89 who are engaged with activities at Royal
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and compassion, fostering confidence and trust that encourages continued client participation in local and organisational events and activities.
Ingelheim has been involved with volunteering at Royal Rehab since 2012 through activities that provide support for clients’ rehabilitation while engaging their staff in an enriching and fulfilling volunteering experience. Boehringer Ingelheim encourages employees to find better ways to make a difference and engage with volunteering opportunities that reflect their commitment to ‘Making More Health’ for the wider community. Since 2012 employees from Boehringer Ingelheim have made significant contributions to the wellbeing of clients at Royal Rehab. Staff have volunteered their time to handknit and sew woollen blankets for residents in Weemala and prepare Welcome Packs, Art Packs for Recreation Therapy and Staff First Aid Packs for the Brain Injury Community Rehabilitation team. In 2015 Boehringer Ingelheim donated resources for use by the Speech Pathology team and also facilitated a mosaic painting workshop with Weemala residents. Together the staff volunteers and residents painted close to 60 tiles that were used to decorate the Productive Garden. Boehringer Ingelheim volunteers
“I volunteer because I have retired and have some spare time that I wish to put to good use,” says Pam, who volunteers in Royal Rehab’s on-site supported
Earlier this year the team at Boehringer Ingelheim also helped to create recreational and leisure activity information and resources for Volunteer Services and clients in the Spinal Injury Unit.
accommodation facility, Weemala. “I wish to give back
The contribution of time, skill and efforts from staff at
to my community and in doing so learn from and enjoy
Boehringer Ingelheim has been invaluable to the clients
the company of the people I interact with. I have learnt
at Royal Rehab, whose lives have been touched by their
so much about life from the residents of Weemala. Their
generosity and support. The opportunity to engage with
courage, resilience and grace are great examples to be
Royal Rehab through corporate volunteering has also had
and their capacity to enjoy life despite their setbacks is
a lasting impact on the Boehringer Ingelheim team.
a source of inspiration.”
“We enjoyed being a part of the team, gaining greater
Royal Rehab has received support from various businesses
insight into the disability and rehabilitation world, and
that have provided their support through corporate
knowing that with our assistance the residents were able
volunteering. Pharmaceutical company Boehringer
to participate in the activities.” 45
FOUNDATION & COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS The projects, initiatives and activities funded by
From our Vocational Rehab Program and Productive
donations deliver outcomes that go above and beyond
Garden to our Return2Sport initiative, Royal Rehab is
Royal Rehab’s day-to-day activities. They underpin
demonstrating that returning to life is possible and is
quality, excellence and continual improvement in
supporting clients through this process to develop the
everything we do, ensuring that we strive to the highest
skills and connections to return to their life’s pursuits.
standard of care in maximising the abilities and life skills of people with disabilities.
Donor support is invaluable to Royal Rehab in advancing rehabilitation and envisioning a future where there are
For more than 100 years Royal Rehab has supported our clients to get back to their lives through an innovative model of rehabilitation which extends beyond recovery in the traditional environment and integrates it with rehabilitation activities in everyday life. Our original programs help our clients build autonomy and enable them to participate actively in their communities.
no limitations to participation. With the ongoing support of our valued donors and community partners like Ducati Owners Club who have been supporters for over 30 years. We continue to have a profound impact in helping our clients to reclaim their lives and connectedness with their communities.
BOB INGHAM & NARELLAN ROTARY The Ingham family has been a
with disability with inclusive local
enhancements and technology that
generous supporter of Royal Rehab
recreation and leisure opportunities,
deliver greater access and support
since 2009 when they first started
the Inghams have recently extended
for people living with a range of
supporting the organisation through
their generosity in support of Royal
disabilities, such as intellectual
Narellan Rotary. Seven years later,
Rehab’s network of community
disabilities, autism spectrum disorder
we are very proud to have maintained
homes in Campbelltown.
and cerebral palsy.
The Ingham family’s support of
Our community homes play a vital
our community homes has made an
role in the care and support of our
amazing difference to our ability to
clients, enabling independent living by
Narellan Rotary first introduced the
deliver choice and independence to
providing clients with opportunities
Inghams to the work of Royal Rehab in
people living with a disability. Over the
to live in a home of their choice, have
the local Campbelltown community.
last 7 years Bob Ingham and his family
the lifestyle they choose and to be
The support of the Ingham family and
have donated more than $150,000
an active participant in the local
Narellan Rotary has grown through
to Royal Rehab that has enabled us
community. We thank Narellan Rotary
the years. Initially providing funding
to improve living environments for
and Bob Ingham and family for their
for the Return2Sport initiative to
the clients in our community homes
generous and continued support.
connect people in the area living
with new furnishings, housing
this wonderful association with both the Inghams and the Rotary Club of Narellan.
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Ken Vessie and Fred Jackson with former Royal Rehab clients
MEN OF LEAGUE Lending a helping hand has been a part of the rugby
have had incredible opportunities to be involved with a
league culture since its inception, on and off the field with
range of community events and activities. The Men of
players, coaches and administrators priding themselves in
League Foundation work closely with the Royal Rehab
ensuring those involved in the game are looked after. This
Recreation Therapy team to bring unique experiences
philosophy extends to the families of players and the fans
to clients, such as providing assisted transport for the
that form the grass roots of the game. This tribal passion
Return2Sport Beach Access Day and access to the
grounds the Men of League Foundation and underpins
Corporate Box at local rugby games.
their continued support of Royal Rehab.
The Men of League also provide support to clients for
The Men of League Foundation provides assistance to the
home modifications and equipment purchases, and
men, women and children of the rugby league community.
donate food and petrol vouchers to ease the financial
Volunteers from the Men of League Foundation frequently
burden for clients who live remotely.
visit clients and families in Royal Rehab’s Brain and Spinal Injury Units who have acquired their injuries while playing the game or simply share their love for the game. Through their ongoing support, clients at Royal Rehab
Our thanks to Men of League and their team of regular visitors, Ken Vessey, Norm Pounder, Fred Jackson, Ben Ross and Stuart Raper, and new Men of League CEO, Peter Collins.
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ROLLERCOASTER RUN Royal Rehab was again the beneficiary of the Ryde Rollercoaster Run, a 3.2km fun run taking in a series of steep uphill and downhill sections of Princes Street a local street in Putney, where Royal Rehab is located. The short yet grueling run is organised by a group of dedicated individuals in the local community under the direction of passionate advocates for Royal Rehab, Deputy Mayor, Ryde Roy Maggio and local resident Anthony Abrahams. Generously supported by the City of Ryde Council and a range of local corporate and small businesses the event attracted great support from the local community. Brain Injury Ambassador Kevin Luu used the event as another training run in the build up to his goal of running a Marathon the following year and provided the local emergency services with great motivation to get involved. The event is a great showcase of what local community can achieve when it bands together. This wonderful fundraiser, combined with the continuing efforts of our longstanding community fundraisers, individual supporters and corporate donors, enable Royal Rehab to continue to deliver innovative programs and services that enable independence, participation and connectedness for people with disability. Community support from Ducati, the Inghams, Men of Leauge and fundraising play a vital role in enabling the organisation to help our clients connect with their lives and build a more inclusive society. We have some of the most talented and dedicated clinicians and disability support staff in the country, but the only way for them to really impact the state of rehabilitation and disability care in Australia is to ensure they have access to the most up to date training, tools and resources to deliver the most innovative programs for people with disability. We would like to thank all of our generous community fundraisers, individual donors and partners and we look forward to your ongoing support so that together we can imagine a world without limits –enabling choice, participation and connectedness for people with disability. Kevin Luu running the Rollercoaster 49
THANK YOU Our work at Royal Rehab would not be possible without the support of our many valued partners and donors, trusts, clubs and community fundraisers, please know we are sincerely grateful for all your support. INDIVIDUALS
Amy Higgins
Leah Simon
Healthcare Network
Rehan Ahmad
Nicole Hodgson
Mark Snyder
Martin Aston
Emma Hogan
Valerie Snyder
Beilby Poulden Costello Lawyers
Clive Austin, AM
Edna Huggett
Richard Spencer
Alexis Berry
Lisa Hunt
Anthony Staveley
Duncan Boyle
Richard Hutchinson
Richard Steele
Frank Bugeja
Bob Ingham
Nancy Stewart
Dr Tram Bui
Monica Johnson
Michael Stonestreet
Pinnacle
Bicycle Network
Rash Media
Bresic Whitney
Raymond Weil
City of Ryde
Reverie Home Gift Style
Commonwealth Bank
Rotary Club of Gladesville
Community of Christians
Christine Johnston
Maria Stuckey
M Capsanis
Elain Kent
Sebastian Tesoriero
Candice Care-Unger
Lina Kerr
Marie Thomas
David Carlson
Dr Clayton King
Jim Towers
Peter Carson
Kristine Kirkwood
Atti Turcsanyi
Content Security Pty Ltd
Mike Chapman
John Knox
Nadia Vaile
Cox’s Road Mall
Lisa Cheng
Pamela Kramer
Jovita Veigas
Desert Duel
Nerida Chew
Daniel Kwon
Stephen & Alison Wall
Dragon Eye Properties
Simon Choy
Mary Lane
Dr Gerard Weber
Drivas Property Group Ducati Owners Club of NSW
Margaret Leader
Anthony Wehby
Sok Fun Collins
Pam Leamon
A R Commys
Nerissa Lee
Yee Chan How Cheong Wen
Jacquelyn Compton
Christine Lee
Rae Cottle
Grace Leong
Richard Croall
Jean Lewis
June Crofton
Ross Lindsay
Corin Dimopoulos
Stephen Lowndes
Alison Downing
Leonie Mangirdas
J R Dunstan
Rita Mathot
J B Edmunson
Marcelle McCallum
Michael Egan
David McEvoy
Barbara Ell OAM
James Middleton
Jane Elliston
Ailsa Nixon
Joyce Ewen
Dene Olding
Benoit Falchi
Dr Anvka Parapuram
Nitin Fernandez
David Piper, OAM
Richard & Maureen Gill
Maria Pirrello
Helen Gleeson
James Rogan
Unis Goh, PSM
Rosemary Rohan
Sonja Golub
Selina Rowe
Simon & Hilary Gruenewald
Stephen Scott
Robert Hall 50
Kevin Seeto Richard Shirley
Mark Wilcox Hilda Wiles Anthony Wilkins
Complete Office Supplies
dwpsuters Edmen Community Staffing Solutions Emerging Systems
Kim Williams
Express Nursing Agency
Thomas Wilson
Fit Kidz
Tho Nui Wong Bill Wood
Frasers Property Australia
Rodney Woodham
Gillis Delaney Lawyers
Tim Wu
Heathley Funds Management
Richard Wykes Silva Yostikian Winnie Yu COMPANIES AND COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS Accounting Survival Systems ADCO Constructions Pty Ltd
Permobil Australia
BGY North Ryde
Kate Bush
Raymond Choy
Particular Baptist Church Ryde
Royal Hotel Russell Investments Ryde Business Forum Shawl Group Pty Ltd Snowden Parkes Real Estate Spotless Stanton Chase Thomson Geer TSA Management Warwick Consulting Wenona School Ltd Western Suburbs Soccer Sports & Community Club Ltd WFS: A WorkForce Software Company Wheelchair Sports NSW TRUSTS AND ESTATES Estate Late Bernard David Rothbury
Hesta
Macquarie Group Foundation
Holdmark Property Group
Puffin Magic Foundation
Insurance & Care NSW
Sargood Foundation
Kilikanoon LG
The R A Gale Foundation
Lions Club of City of Ryde Inc
The White Knight Foundation
Little Zak’s Academy
Walter & Eliza Hall Trust
Aon Risk Solutions
Masters
Atli’s Country Pharmacy
Maxxia
Australia Japan
Mirvac
Miller Street Menswear
CREATE OPPORTUNITIES FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITY Your support of our innovative rehabilitation programs and disability support services can help bring joy and fulfillment through participation for people and families whose lives have been changed by brain injury, spinal cord injury, and other complex health conditions. Join us in imagining a world without limits – in enabling choice, participation and connectedness for people with disability. Support Royal Rehab. DONATE TODAY www.royalrehab.com.au
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235 Morrison Rd Ryde NSW 2112 T 02 9808 9222 F 02 9809 6071 info@royalrehab.com.au
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