We helped him to get some movement back into his arms, but his father was distraught that if he got to the point where he had use of both of his hands that he might then try to commit suicide. To give him renewed purpose, we offered him a job in the club. Initially he said, “what could I do?” I asked him if he would read stories to the kids in the kids’ club twice a week. This worked very well: the children did not see his legs, but rather they saw his heart and soul. Parents were always thanking us because they said that thanks to Jason their children were learning about empathy, tolerance and compassion. Jason went back to college and has become an amazing man and contributor to society, mentoring other families who have gone through the same experience as him. What advice do you have for operators who’d like to deliver these programmes? Start out slow. Do your homework. Choose one area which is dear to you and really research it. Find partners to align with: respected physicians and clinicians. We have always been very open that we are available to anyone who wants to do what we did – we will give you our knowledge for free. ●
PHOTO: THE PERFECT STEP
PHOTO: THE PERFECT STEP
Exercises are done out of wheelchairs, to enable more freedom of movement
Around 80 per cent of clients regain some sort of function
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