Getting Out There 2017-18

2017-18

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Making the most of living

Northland Down Syndrome Support Group

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Contents

Information & Services Relating to Disability Northland ............................................4 Tiaho Trust – Disability .......................................6 A Matter of Perception .........................................6 Disability Responsiveness Training ........................6 Keep fit is the answer...........................................7 Alzheimers Northland ..........................................8 Living a normal life with dementia ......................9 Arthritis - it’s a serious health issue......................10 Making the most of every moment ......................11 Blind Foundation Live life without limits ...............12 Out and about in Whangarei ..............................13 CCS Disability Action............................................14 Thomas Agnew: In the driver’s seat ......................15 Deaf Aotearoa ....................................................16 We can do anything the wider community can except hear...................................................17 Epilepsy awareness – see the person – Kia titiro ki te tangata .........................................18 The importance of support groups .......................19 Huntington’s Disease Association .........................20 Huntingtons Personal Story..................................21 Motor Neurone Disease Association ......................22 Northland MS Society Inc. ....................................24

It was nice to know I wasn’t alone........................25 NorthAble Disability Services ...............................26 Turning dreams into plans...................................27 Parent to Parent Northland .................................30 Walking the unknown, but not alone ..................31 Parkinson’s Northland .........................................32 Living our life with Parkinson’s ............................33 Supporting life after stroke in Northland ..............34 Brain Injury - the hidden disability........................36 I got to spend time with people who understood...37 Northland Down Syndrome Support Group...........38 An awesome little guy .........................................39 Age Concern........................................................40 Blomfield School ..................................................42 Evolutionary Programme Enables Young Persons to Live Their Best Lives ..............................................45 Citizens Advice - Whangarei.................................46 Halberg Disability Sport Foundation.....................48 Get The Best Of Rest Home Care............................50 Respite support options tailored to meet your needs ..................................................51 TLC4U- Small enough to care big enough to provide ...........................................................53 2017-2018 CALENDAR OF EVENTS ...................... 54-55

Whangarei RSA are Proud to Support The Getting Out there Expo.

The Welfare division of the Whangarei RSA, Whangarei Support Services was set up to specifically support veterans and their widows with many aspects of their lives. Support Services has a Welfare vehicle which is able to be used to transport their members to the many, vital health related appointments which may crop up from time to time.

The team at RSA Support Services is also available to advise veterans about the various additional benefits that may be available to them through Veteran Affairs. Forms these days can be rather confusing and for this reason they are

also available to help veterans or their widows with the necessary applications for disability allowances.

The office is open from 10am on Monday, Wednesday and Friday every week. If you need any assistance call Whangarei RSA Support Services for an appointment.

Call Colleen on 438 9680 for an appointment.

9 Rust Avenue, Whangarei

Information & Services

Edition Eight

Relating to disability in Northland Linking people, families and carers living with a disability to information, advice and support in their community.

Visit www.tiaho.org.nz/dias about what services these organisations provide in Northland.

In Northland, there are a range of organisations providing a Disability Information Advisory Service.

These are known as the ‘Northland DIAS Collective’.

Tiaho Trust supports these organisations by helping to improve the access to and utilization of their you are unsure who to contact or have any questions, call us on: FREEPHONE: 0800 430 3406.

• • • • •

Advice and information Advocacy Community education and awareness Support groups and networking Home visits

• • • • •

Access to health professionals Referrals and assessments Equipment Seminars/workshops Resources

Together, Tiaho Trust and the DIAS Collective, empower the Northland community by promoting the disabled community as valued citizens who contribute, participate and add to the diversity of New Zealand society.

Northland Down Syndrome Support Group

For DIAS contact details please refer overleaf

disability – a matter of perception

Tai Tokerau Maori Trust Board Building 3-5 Hunt Street, Whangarei PO Box 374, Whangarei FREEPHONE 0800 430 3406 Phone 09 430 3406 • Fax 09 438 1679 info@tiaho.org.nz • www.tiaho.org.nz

Information & Services

Relating to disability in Northland

A Tiaho Trust Project

Your A –Z directory of disability support providers: Alzheimer’s

www.tiaho.org.nz/alzheimers

www.tiaho.org.nz/arthritis

Arthritis New Zealand

Blind Foundation

148 Corks Road, Tikipunga PO Box 1179, Whangarei Phone: (09) 438 7771 Fax: (09) 438 2974 northland@alzheimers.org.nz www.alzheimers.org.nz

Suite 1, 1 James Street, Whangarei P O Box 74581 Greenlane, Auckland 1546 Freephone: 0800 663 463 www.arthritis.org.nz

277 Kamo Road, Whangarei Phone: (09) 437 1199 Freephone: 0800 243 333 generalenquiries@blindfoundation.org.nz www.blindfoundation.org.nz

CCS Disability Action

Deaf Aotearoa Northland

Brain Injury Association

www.tiaho.org.nz/brain_injury

PO Box 4001, Kamo, Whangarei Phone: (09) 459 5013 Fax: (09) 437 0714 northland@mybrain.org.nz www.mybrain.org.nz

Down Syndrome Support Group www.tiaho.org.nz/down_syndrome

www.tiaho.org.nz/ccs

291 Kamo Road, Whangarei PO Box 8035, Kensington, Whangarei Phone: (09) 437 1899 Fax: (09) 437 0209 Freephone: 0800 227 2255 northland@ccsdisabilityaction.org.nz www.northern.ccsdisabilityaction.org.nz

Epilepsy Northland

www.tiaho.org.nz/epilepsy

www.tiaho.org.nz/blind_foundation

www.tiaho.org.nz/deaf_aotearoa 1A Deveron Street Phone: (09) 437 2022 Fax: (09) 437 2028 Mobile: 021 641 178 aklrception@deaf.org.nz www.deaf.org.nz

Huntington’s

www.tiaho.org.nz/huntingtons PO Box 16181, Sandringham Auckland 1351 Phone: (09) 815 9703 Freephone: 0800 432 825 huntingtonsakld@xtra.co.nz www.hdauckland.org.nz

Kara Road, RD 9, Whangarei Phone: (09) 434 6723 Freephone: 0800 693 724 national.coordinator@nzdsa.org.nz www.nzdsa.org.nz

Suite 5, 71 Bank Street PO Box 712, Whangarei 0140 Phone: (09) 438 5498 Freephone: 0800EPILEPSY northland@epilepsy.org.nz www.epilepsy.org.nz

Multiple Sclerosis Northland

Motor Neurone Disease

NorthAble

Yarnton House, 14 Erson Ave, Royal Oak, Auckland PO Box 24036, Auckland 1345 Phone: (09) 624 2148 Mobile: 021 036 0218

40 John Street, Whangarei Freephone: 0508 637 200 drc@northable.org.nz www.northable.org.nz Equipment Showroom: (09) 430 3469 www.equipmentplus.org.nz LYNKZ: (09) 430 3470 43 Tirarau Place, Dargaville

www.tiaho.org.nz/ms

Suite 6, 71 Bank Street Whangarei Phone/Fax: (09) 438 3945 Mobile: 027 539 9883 nthlndms@xtra.co.nz www.msnz.org.nz

Stroke Foundation

www.tiaho.org.nz/mnda

www.mnda.org.nz

www.tiaho.org.nz/stroke

Parent to Parent Northland

PO Box 1937, Whangarei Freephone: 0800 459 954 Mid North/Far North Freephone: 0800 566 383 Northland: northland@stroke.org.nz Far North: far.north@stroke.org.nz www.stroke.org.nz

291 Kamo Road, Kamo PO Box 4295, Whangarei 0141 Phone: (09) 437 3337 Freephone: 0508 236 236 northland@parent2parent.org.nz www.parent2parent.org.nz

www.tiaho.org.nz/parent2parent

disability – a matter of perception

www.tiaho.org.nz/northable

Parkinson’s Northland

www.tiaho.org.nz/parkinsons PO Box 641, Whangarei 0141 Phone/Fax: (09) 437 6878 Freephone: 0800 473 4636 northland@parkinsons.org.nz www.parkinsons.org.nz

Tai Tokerau Maori Trust Board Building 3-5 Hunt Street, Whangarei PO Box 374, Whangarei FREEPHONE 0800 430 3406 Phone 09 430 3406 • Fax 09 438 1679 info@tiaho.org.nz • www.tiaho.org.nz

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Tiaho Trust – Disability Disability Responsiveness A Matter of Perception Training

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iaho Trust is a disabled led organisation that is proactive in providing advice, education and support to develop communities that are inclusive of disabled people and who value their contribution to the community of Northland.

We are unique in that all of the staff at Tiaho Trust has an impairment of one sort or another, as compared to the majority of disability providers in New Zealand who are predominantly run by able-bodied people. This gives us a strong sense of disability culture and we can truly empathize with the people we support.

We constantly promote and support the inclusion and the value of disabled people add to the Northland community. We are now delivering training that educates organisations on how to deliver excellent customer service to the large market segment in our community; the disabled community. We deliver this training not only to non- government organisations and health and disability providers but also to commercial organisations who may be allegeable for a 50% discount through the Regional Partnership Voucher Scheme that is administered by Northland Inc. If your organisation is interested in receiving this training please contact us or look at website.

Each year we host many events including the International Day of People with Disabilities celebrations, Expo (look out for the poster in this publication), various youth events and are involved with implementing the new New Zealand Disability Strategy.

Tiaho Trust supports a range of organisations that provide disability information and advisory services about a specific disability, or disability in general for people in Northland. These organisations are showcased in this supplement and they are part of the ‘Northland DIAS Collective’.

This year is the general elections and we will be actively inviting all the local standing candidates to answer questions regarding disability in the Northland region. There answers will be published on our website so the disabled people in Northland can vote with disability issues in mind.

W

hen you’re in the business of social change, of readjusting attitudes and changing perceptions, you can get so caught up in the like-mindedness around you, that you forget what a mammoth task social change really is beyond your usual sphere.

At Tiaho Trust we have been plotting and scheming, writing and filming. We’ve produced a training video called ‘No Problem, You’re Welcome’. When I say the title I can imagine saying it accompanied by a quick flick of my head, a wink of my eye and click of my tongue. It’s a training video for businesses to learn how to provide excellent service to disabled customers, clients and patients without inadvertently infuriating them.

We intend to train local businesses, government and non-government service providers employees and health providers, on how to provide excellent customer service to disabled people. The training sessions can be tailor made to suit the organisation and the workshops are very interactive utilising a locally made video to show scenarios of good and not so good customer service.

The video features all local premises/scenes and local actors both disabled and enabled. The presenters on the video are local Wally Noble and Jacquiline Guerts who is a professional actor of Coast to Coast NZ. Providing great customer service to disabled and older people, adds value to the culture of an organisation or service. The more you understand a customer’s needs, the better quality of service and experience you are able to provide.

This is potentially 24% of Northland customers that may not be visiting your organisation because they do not feel quite comfortable with customer service.

Ground Floor Tai Tokerau Maori Trust Board Building 3 - 5 Hunt Street / PO Box 374 Whangarei Phone: 09 430 3406 Free phone: 0800 430 3406 Fax: 09 438 1679 Email: info@tiaho.org.nz Web:http://www.tiaho.org.nz

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Keep fit is the answer

– Kim’s story

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im came in today to co-write her profile with me, she was wearing salmon and black, timeless sheik lots of curls and a very modern walker.

Kim and I have known each other for over 13 years.

Kim has many facets and plays many roles. Apart from being a Trustee of Tiaho Trust for the last 4 years, Kim is my partner in crime when it comes to delivering training, particularly when it comes to training student nurses on how to give great service to disabled people.

Kim is particularly qualified for this role. She has been a registered nurse in a variety of positions that stretch from1970’s to 2000 (one wouldn’t think it to look at her). Specialising in general nursing and paediatrics both locally and internationally, Kim knows what it’s like to be behind a nurses uniform. She also knows what it’s like to be on the other side of the fence as Kim acquired an impairment some 18 years ago. “It’s made who I am” Kim says to a lecture theatre packed with want to be health professionals. It’s something both Kim and I relate to without to say much to each other.

Two neurological impairment s similar but different. A tremor or a spasm when you least want it brought on by emotional stimulation. Something not many people understand but we do.

She is a particularly busy individual apart from volunteering at the; Citizens Advice Bureau, the Multi-Cultural Centre (Migrants Centre in a different life), presiding on the Whangarei District Council Disability Advisory Group and of course one of the many bosses (being a Trustee), she is a gym bunny. To say she is obsessive over her fitness is a gross understatement “I go to the gym twice a day”, she says, “really!” I replied with raised eyebrows.

“It’s the dopamine, I really like/need that release, I have always been training for something, marathons, triathlons, and was a former aerobics instructor and personal trainer”. I felt lazy hearing it, my exercise tend to be wiping my watering eye at the moment, (I had the man-flu writing this).

For someone who has had MS for eighteen years, Kim is very active and maybe her obsession over fitness is the reason why. “I don’t let my MS define me”, Kim often says, I agree an overachieving gym junky is more like it!

“I have always been training for something, marathons, triathlons, and was a former aerobics instructor and personal trainer”, says Kim.

Tiaho Trust will be celebrating the International Day alongside the Getting Out There EXPO at Forum North 8 December – 10.30 – 2.30pm Mini Jeeps - Airbrush Tattoos - Papermill Pony Rides - Live Entertainment - Circus Kumkurani Service Provider information on disabilities

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Alzheimers Northland

■ Retiring staff Rod Coe, Robyn Barr and New Staff: Margaret Salmon & Teresa Uquhart

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e continue to reap the benefits of a new building with our profile of the Society increasing to an all the time high. The number of people who just call in to ask questions or seek information is pleasing.

With a new strategic direction for the Society: building and strengthening relationships, will continue to be a priority for us, our relationship with our funders especially the Northland DHB is one of respect and understanding and the individuals I deal with on a regular basis are passionate about the wellbeing and care offered to Northlanders. Our many other funders support the work we do in many different ways and 2017 will bring the new opportunities I am sure.

One of those supporters is the Alex McLean Charitable Trust who assisted us with the purchase of three new vehicles to replace our aging fleet, these vehicles are amazingly economic and will save money on our near $20,000 annual fuel bill.

This year saw us offer a dementia training package for professional caregivers: Open Minds Open Doors is a nationally recognised course which is funded by the Ministry of Health, we were fortunate enough to secure a wonderful facilitator in Bea Hugill who ran courses throughout Northland to over 60 health workers.

We were also able to offer carer training for those looking after people with dementia at home, fund generously provided by the Northland Voluntary Welfare Trust let us offer these free to over 60 carers in Northland.

World Alzheimers Day was held in September and in conjunction

with Brain Research New Zealand we were fortunate enough to have two PHD students pass on their work at a “Grand Rounds” talk at the Whangarei hospital and a public talk at barge Park; we hope that these very informative talks will continue annually.

ALZHEIMERS SOCIETY NORTHLAND INC

PO Box 7027, Tikipunga, Whangarei 0144 and Phone (09) 438-7771

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Living a normal life with dementia – Keith’s story

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or Keith and Anne Sandford, acceptance and keeping a positive attitude are key in coping with Keith’s demen-

tia.

Dementia often affects the part of the brain which controls memory, which is why memory loss is one of the first symptoms.

This loss of short term memory can potentially have a big impact on day to day living, sometimes limiting what a person can do.

Keith received a diagnosis of dementia after a rough patch of feeling like he was going crazy. After undergoing a raft of tests, specialists told him it was dementia. “In a funny way, the diagnosis was a relief. It didn’t worry me, because I finally knew what was wrong with me. I dealt with it, and so we carry on.”

Part of that carrying on is taking advantage of the support groups which are available through Alzheimer’s Northland. One such group is the Narnia Group, which meets every Monday morning at the Riverside Café. This gives people with Alzheimer’s or dementia and their partners a chance to meet others in the same boat.

They also attend regular dinners for people with Alzheimer’s and dementia which are designed to help everyone with accepting and dealing with the implications of a diagnosis. Reaching out to others with dementia is something Keith and Anne say are vital to living with the condition. Keith has seen a number of people with Alzhei-

mer’s or dementia isolate themselves from others because they felt ashamed of their condition.

For Keith, his diagnosis was like a light bulb being switched on. As he talked with specialists and learned more about dementia, he recognised that he could trace early signs of dementia right back to when he was 12. He suffered panic attacks as a child, and experienced numerous nightmares almost every night. He also tended to be very shy and nervous, preferring to keep to himself.

Recent research has found that there is a link between long-term depression, anxiety and dementia and Alzheimer’s. Doctors such as Dr Dave Jenkins have developed programs to help manage the condition more effectively, with the aim of reversing early onset Alzheimer’s, which gives hope to many.

Keith knew from experience that fighting against his condition was the wrong thing to do for him. For a number of years he struggled with agoraphobia and formed a group to help other people also suffering with the condition. He could see that much of the advice his fellow agoraphobics had received wasn’t working for them, so he found a way forward which did work. “The secret was not to fight it, to do what you were comfortable with. Forcing the issue and doing too much made it worse.”

Taking the same approach with dementia is

working well for Keith. He takes each day at a time, only doing what he feels comfortable with that day. This prevents him from experiencing undue stress, which can make exacerbate the symptoms of dementia.

Keith has accepted his limitations and focuses on the things he can do rather than what he can’t.

Sharing this approach with others is also something he feels good about as he knows how isolating dementia can be. Keith enjoys helping others accept their condition and encourages them to enjoy the little things.

Although Keith struggles with his shortterm memory, there’s nothing wrong with his ability to recall events from his past. He has many wonderful moments in his life to remember and share, and instead of dwelling on the negatives, he likes nothing better than taking time to reminisce.

Keith’s message to everyone with dementia or Alzheimer’s is a positive one – focus on the good things in life, do what you can do and have a good laugh!

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We will help you gain a clear and accurate idea of your financial position, plan for your financial position, plan for your financial future and maximize your assets for retirement.

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Arthritis - it’s a serious health issue

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rthritis is a painful and unpredictable disease that affects around 624,000 people in New Zealand. It can affect anyone at any stage of life from infancy through to adult years.

Arthritis is a serious health issue and is the leading cause of disability in New Zealand. We sometimes hear people who do not have arthritis refer to it as just a bit of arthritis but it a serious condition that has a major impact upon the lives of hundreds of thousands of people in this country.

There are more than 140 different forms of arthritis and it is essential to know what type of arthritis you have so you can learn how best to manage it. The most common forms are osteoarthritis, gout and rheumatoid arthritis. Often people do not realise that gout is a form of arthritis.

Arthritis New Zealand provides information and education for people with all forms of arthritis and while living and coping with it can be difficult there are a variety of self-management tools that can help control and reduce the effects of arthritis. These include: • Physical activity – both muscle strengthening and regular exercise

• Joint protection – including using devices to relieve joint stress such as walking sticks • Medication – pain relief, disease modifying medications • Weight control to prevent extra stress on the weight bearing joints.

Arthritis New Zealand provides a telephone advice service and Arthritis Educators are available on 0800 663 463 in business hours to help people manage their arthritis. We can also provide training for health professionals, workshops and seminars.

In Whangarei we have an active support group and there is also a water-based exercise class running at the Aquatic Centre that provides a great programme for people with arthritis. Isobel Finlayson, a registered physiotherapist, facilitates these classes independently of Arthritis New Zealand, and contact can be made by email to: icfinlayson.physio@xtra.co.nz

CONTACT ARTHRITIS NEW ZEALAND

by phone 0800 663 463 or visit our web site www.arthritis.org.nz

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Making the most of every moment – Nicole’s story

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or Nicole Vuglar, the challenges of being a mum to 8-month old Jessica are greater than for most mothers. Nicole, 33, has two invisible conditions that cause constant pain and drain her of energy every day.

The symptoms started suddenly about 11 years ago.

First she had pain in her shoulders then her fingers started to curl up. Not long after that her knee got sore, making it difficult to walk. Nicole’s mum took her to the doctor who sent her to the hospital. A while later the double diagnosis was confirmed – lupus and fibromyalgia.

“It was a shock, although I had kind of suspected something. I was used to muscle spasms after the epileptic seizures I’d had since birth, but these were different. I got to the stage where the basics such as dressing and feeding myself were getting difficult.”

When she was working on a farm, Nicole sometimes had to sleep at lunch time just to manage the morning and evening milking. Her symptoms disappeared while she was pregnant with Jessica but returned about five months after she gave birth. Now, medication helps manage the pain and she’s careful to pace herself so she doesn’t get too tired.

“I’ve had to learn my limits. Jessica is in a good routine and I try to plan everything in advance to give myself plenty of time to prepare. Part of accepting the condition is not feeling bad if I have to cancel on friends at the last minute. It’s taken me a while to get to that point, but I can do that now.”

Support from Arthritis New Zealand has been a big part of Nicole’s life. She volunteered at the Whangarei office before it closed earlier this year, and belongs to a number of online and local support groups.

“I try to make the most of every moment. And I value the people who can listen and understand what I’m going through.”

As to the future, Nicole hopes to find a job in an office, have another child, and continue to live as normal a life as possible.

Fibromyalgia is classed as a syndrome rather than a disease. Symptoms include muscular pain, stiffness, sleep disorders and fatigue. Lupus is a chronic inflammatory disease that can affect joints, muscles and the skin.

For more information about all forms of arthritis and to find a support group, phone Arthritis New Zealand’s helpline 0800 663 463 or see www.arthritis.org.nz

“I try to make the most of every moment. And I value the people who can listen and understand what I’m going through.”

The Cerebral Palsy Society of NZ provides practical assistance that can enhance the lives of members with cerebral palsy!

www.cpsociety.org.nz 0800 503 603 PO Box 24759, Royal Oak, Auckland 1345

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Blind Foundation: Live life without limits

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f you or someone you know is losing your sight, the Blind Foundation can help. For over 125 years, the Blind Foundation has worked with New Zealanders who are blind or have low vision, so they can live life without limits.

More than 12,100 people nation-wide receive services and support from the Blind Foundation, with more people registering every day. Our dedicated and expert staff work with all ages from children to elderly people, on a one-to-one basis to fully understand their individual needs. From this point, we provide the services and support which will be the most beneficial for each person.

Services are free of charge and help people regain or maintain their independence – to be self-reliant and live the life they choose.

Blind Foundation services often begin with counselling to teaching adaptive household tasks.

We teach people how to use adaptive technology so they can keep in touch and up-todate with the world. Teaching smartphone, tablet and computer techniques are all part of what’s on offer.

If people wish to find or keep a job, or begin studying, our employment service can help.

The Blind Foundation offers support in the form of careers advice, support for students, work experience, pre-employment programs to help you get that dream job, on-going support in the workplace and advocacy.

The audio library is our most popular service.

We also produce a range of materials in accessible formats such as large print and braille.

Our Recreation service ranges from book clubs to tramps and bike rides, both locally and nationally, providing recreation and peer support. We offer a range of different activities people can be involved in, depending on their individual interests. This gives people a great opportunity to meet others who are blind or have low vision. It’s also important for many of our members in order to achieve the lifestyle they want.

If you or someone you know is blind or experiencing vision loss, call the Blind Foundation on 0800 24 33 33 for help. You can also check out blindfoundation.org.nz for information and upcoming events.

BLIND FOUNDATION 277 Kamo Road, Whangarei 0112 Phone (09) 437 1199 Freephone 0800 24 33 33 generalenquiries@blindfoundation.org.nz

blindfoundation.org.nz

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Out and about in Whangarei

– Jacqui’s story

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learnt braille there, and am grateful lind Foundation client Jacqui for the Blind Foundation’s support in Gardner loves getting involved providing paper and equipment that in all the great things the enables me to live an independent Whangarei community has to offer. life as a mother and homemaker.”

Jacqui has been blind since she was With help from the Blind Foundation 10 years old, following the removal of Jacqui has learnt how to use a a large brain tumour. Now computer and cell phone. at age 55 she has been “The computer era really married for 22 years does open a whole and has three sons.

“I appreciate the new world to people Jacqui enjoys Blind Foundation who are blind or have walking and has for the support they low vision.” taken part in the provide for people like Jacqui loves to read Sports Northland me to live a full and and enjoys using the run/walk series Blind Foundation’s and has walked satisfying life.”

BookLink App on her the Kerikeri half cell phone. “It enables marathon three times. me to carry my book around “I have always enjoyed with me wherever I go, in my walking, for my own indepocket. The Blind Foundation Library pendent transport and health and are very supportive if I have a probfitness.” lem with using the BookLink service.”

Five years ago Jacqui teamed up Jacqui and her family love to attend with guide dog Paris and enjoys the monthly Blind Foundation Games traversing the city streets, completing Day and support group. “Paris so shopping errands, visiting friends and enjoys these meetings because she attending her local church. gets to catch up with her guide dog Paris also joins Jacqui when she’s buddies.” out busking at the local growers’ “I appreciate the Blind Foundation for market and in the city centre. the support they provide for people “I sing and play the auto-harp, which like me to live a full and satisfying I learnt at Homai College for the life.”

Blind in Auckland as a child. I also

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CCS Disability Action

What we offer – Nga Tapaetanga About Us Ma Matou CCS Disability Action is a nationwide organisation that provides support and advocacy for people with a disability. We work in partnership with disabled people, families and whanau to support them to have choice and control in their lives.

As well as creating individually tailored supports, we work in communities to identify and remove barriers so that all people can lead positive and connected lives. We also lobby and advocate for local and national policies that ensure that disabled people’s rights are upheld.

What we offer - Nga Tapaetanga’ Our model is based on putting people first, and finding ways to support the choices they want to make, and the lives that they want for themselves.

At CCS Disability Action, we believe that all people have the right to be included in the fabric of their communities and enjoy the same rights and opportunities that every New Zealander might expect.

We offer a range of services to support individuals and families in Northland to achieve these aims: • Our Community Support Coordinators provide advocacy and support to remove any barriers to ensure access to the quality education of your choosing.

• We provide ongoing support, information and options for young people preparing to leave school and head into further study or employment.

• We support people with a disability to access paid and sustain-

able employment by providing individualised support for potential employees and employers.

• We work in partnership with disabled people to support them to lead independent lives. We provide community-based support and also support people to transition from residential care into their own home.

• Our ongoing vocational support services enable people of all abilities to participate in training, work or community activities.

• We offer respite support. A range of options are designed to provide a break for families and provide a positive and rewarding experience for your child.

• Our dedicated youth team can offer tailored support with education, employment and can connect you with friends, youth groups and your community.

• We administer the mobility parking service in Northland, supporting people to park in accessible spaces in the community.

CCS DISABILITY ACTION NORTHLAND (09) 437 1899 or 0800 227 2255 CCS Disability Action’s office hours have changed 9am - 4:30pm, Monday to Thursday.

Please note that Reception will be closed from 1pm - 2pm on those days. The office will not be open on Fridays.”

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Thomas Agnew: In the driver’s seat

– Thomas’s story

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t 22, Thomas Agnew has found new confidence and a new career. We share his story.

Thomas grew up on the family farm in Whangarei, with his parents Alan and Lesley, and siblings Evelyn, George and Harry.

“They’re usually supportive on all my big life decisions, and have really helped me out when I’ve needed it most,” Thomas says.

Thomas says he is more confident now than he was when he was younger. “I was quite isolated, due to spending most of my time working on the home farm and not having my own transport,” he says.

Thomas is thankful for CCS Disability Action Employment Coordinator Angela Cartwright, who he credits with helping him to build his confidence. “She’s pretty awesome. If it was not for her, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” he says. Angela helped him find work experience in retail, and then helped him find his current job working for Whangarei District Council, where he works as a Data Support Officer.

As a result his social life has improved markedly. “Comparing from before I started at the council and now, my social life is probably close to a million times better, mainly due to my work colleagues boosting my confidence levels.”

He has also gained new friends through his love of cars.

In his spare time, Thomas has been restoring a classic Mini. When the car kept

breaking down, Thomas had to learn how to fix it. “I didn’t originally think that I needed the skills and knowledge about cars to own a classic Mini,” he explains. But the Mini’s need for regular tinkering was a blessing in disguise as this is when his love of cars really took off, and sent Thomas on a new journey.

Now, when he is not working at the Council,

Thomas is studying to become an automotive electrician at Manukau Institute of Technology in Auckland.

“I came to realise that I wouldn’t enjoy doing a desk job forever, and talked to a friend who helped me decide that working on cars for a job is what I would enjoy doing,” he says.

The Mobility Parking Permit Scheme - connecting you with your community

THE MOBILITY PARKING permit scheme supports people with mobility impairments to get out into their communities.

You are eligible if you meet the following criteria: ( 71+ 5.% +254;% ,1 :5;< 52& always require the use of a wheelchair or ( 71+. 54!;!,9 ,1 :5;< &!-,52'%- !-

-%.*%.%;9 .%-,.!',%& 49 5 3%&!'5; '12&!,!12 1. &!-54!;!,9 or ( 71+ "5*% 5 3%&!'5; '12&!,!12 1. &!-54!;!,9 ,"5, .%/+!.%- 91+ ,1 "5*% physical contact or close supervision ,1 -5$%;9 #%, 5.1+2& 52& '5221, 4% ;%$, +25,,%2,%&6 There are two types of permit: ( 812# ,%.3 ( )"1., ,%.3

71+ '52 #%, 52 500;!'5,!12 $1.3 52& 31.% information by visiting: www.MobilityParking.org.nz

or by phoning: 0800 227 2255

16

Deaf Aotearoa

D

eaf Aotearoa is a national organisation representing the voice of Deaf people, and the national service provider for Deaf people in New Zealand. It is also the New Zealand-representative member organisation of the World Federation of the Deaf.

This year, Deaf Aotearoa celebrates its 40th birthday. The organisation was first formed as the New Zealand Association of the Deaf in 1977.

Deaf Aotearoa’s services are available from 13 offices nationwide, including Northland.

First Signs First Signs connects families who have a deaf or hard of hearing child aged 0-5, with New Zealand Sign Language, the Deaf community and Deaf culture. This is achieved with home visits, visits to the child’s Early Childhood Education provider, video chat, resources and social gatherings.

Youth Service Deaf Aotearoa’s Youth Service engages with deaf youth, promoting positive Deaf identity and leadership in young deaf people. As well as youth gatherings, the service offers a Transition programme for those moving on from school to training, work or further education. Deaf Aotearoa also has a Youth Intern Programme, with interns working and studying within the organisation for 12 months.

Hauora Hauora is a wide-ranging service focused on improving lives and supporting independence. This includes coordinating access to other services, providing information and advice, and assessing eligibility for funded equipment such as flashing doorbells and visual smoke alarms.

Employment and Career Advancement Employment and Career Advancement is a specialist employment service for deaf and hard of hearing people to be successful in the workplace. It offers support preparing for employment, job-seeking, staying in work and developing a career, as well as increasing Deaf awareness among the business community.

NZSL Promotion This includes Adult Community Education delivered in NZSL for Deaf people, bespoke Deaf Awareness and NZSL courses for businesses and organisations, and New Zealand Sign Language Week, held annually in May. iSign iSign is New Zealand’s only nationwide New Zealand Sign Language interpreter booking service. iSign receives job requests for NZSL interpreters and coordinates interpreting services provided by more than 80 qualified interpreters.

DEAF AOTEAROA 1A Deveron Street, Whangarei Ph 437 2022 or 021 641 178 www.deaf.org.nz national@deaf.org.nz Open Monday to Thursday 9am-4pm Friday by appointment

17

We can do anything the wider community can except hear – Ken’s story

W

hen Ken Brain helped establish Deaf Aotearoa (then the New Zealand Association of the Deaf), he had no idea he’d still be in touch with the organisation 40 years later.

Born into a family where all four grandparents were Deaf, Ken says he’s never been shy.

“My extended family is Deaf, so we accept it as normal. We can do anything the wider community can except hear.”

After attending Avondale College in Auckland, Ken completed an upholstery apprenticeship and at the age of 22, started his own business.

Following years of service to Auckland Deaf Society, Ken was a member of the working party formed to establish the New Zealand Association of the Deaf in 1977. He became the first National Secretary before stepping down to focus on his family in 1980 and being named an Honorary Vice-President.

“When I started with what’s now Deaf Aotearoa, all I wanted was interpreters,” Ken says. “My grandmother had a personal problem and went to her doctor. She asked her neighbour to go with her (to help with communication). The neighbours spoke, and the whole street knew about my grandmother’s problem. Today, we have interpreters, and it’s all kept confidential.”

Almost four decades later, a retired Ken is still involved with Deaf

Aotearoa, although in a completely different capacity.

He teaches his upholstery expertise and skill to other Deaf Northlanders at Adult Community Education courses run by Deaf Aotearoa in Whangarei. Supporting Deaf people to gain employment skills is important to Ken, having employed around 20 Deaf staff over his 37 years as a business owner.

“Most Deaf people are reliable, loyal and not easily distracted in the workplace. Given the chance, they are good workers.”

Looking back, Ken Brain acknowledges he’s achieved a lot. He’s impressed with the role Deaf Aotearoa continues to play in his life and in the community.

“Seeing how Deaf Aotearoa has grown...I’m definitely proud.

Interpreters, NZSL Week – all of it is the offspring of what started as a simple concept.

NZSL Interpreting Service www.isign.co.nz 0800 934 683 TEXT 3359 bookings@isign.co.nz

Book a New Zealand Sign Language Interpreter

18

Epilepsy awareness – see the person – Kia titiro ki te tangata times be negative, and people’s emotions can be ruled by their perceptions of epilepsy, rather than the facts. Margaret works with families, providing them with tools to support their loved one. People have a better chance of managing their condition when they are supported in a positive way by their family and community.

Margaret works closely with each individual to build their understanding of their own condition – learning their triggers in order to manage their seizures.

For people with epilepsy Margaret also offers support at school or in the workplace, where she works closely with teachers and workmates to foster a culture of understanding and to put strategies in place. This hands-on approach removes any fear other people may have of epilepsy, and helps them see that the person diagnosed with epilepsy hasn’t changed. Margaret helps them understand what a seizure can look like for the individual and what to do when they experience one. Margaret has found time and again that arming people with f there’s one main message Margaret Dunn of Epilepsy Northfacts takes fear out of the equation, resulting in a culture of acceptland would like us all to know is that we need to stop perceiving ance. epilepsy as a disability. With proper understanding, it is a condition Margaret also runs public seminars on epilepsy for the wider compeople live with, and live life to the full. It’s essential that we focus munity. If you’re interested in attending one of these invaluable on what people with epilepsy can do rather than what they can’t seminars, contact Margaret at Epilepsy Northland. do. By garnering understanding and The vision of Epilepsy New acceptance in the community, everyDon’t let epilepsy rule your life It’s not who you Zealand is a world where one with epilepsy can live fully. ignorance and fear are replaced Margaret’s role is to support both are. Learn about your condition and find what by understanding and acceptthe person with epilepsy and their works for you. Epilepsy NZ is there to support you ance. For this to come about family, with the aim of improving their Margaret says, we need to work in any way we can. management of this condition and on raising awareness of epilepsy quality of life. Margaret meets face to in the community, so that we all face with people and their families throughout the whole of Northsee the person and not their condition. We need to dispel the fears land, ensuring that everyone living with epilepsy has the opportunity people have of the different types of seizures so that no one feels to discuss any questions or concerns they may have. isolated.

The focus of these meetings is always positive and Margaret tailors

I

them to the individual and whatever they need at the time. It may be as simple as listening to their fears and concerns. Margaret aims with each person to take away the feeling of “I can’t”, redirecting attention to all the things each person with epilepsy can do. It’s very much about moving forward and not dwelling on things a person may feel they have lost. Instead, Margaret helps each person and their family to focus on risk management, thus giving them the tools to build on things they already enjoy doing as well as trying out new opportunities.

These face to face meetings are also valuable in helping families of people with epilepsy gain a better understanding of the condition.

A diagnosis of epilepsy can be a huge shock not just to the person but often to their family as well. The focus at this stage can some-

CONTACT DETAILS: Margaret Dunn Epilepsy Educator Suite 5, 71 Bank Street, PO Box 712 Whangarei 0140

19

The importance of support groups

W

hen Bev was diagnosed with epilepsy, she was shocked and horrified. Having no real understanding of epilepsy back then, she felt as if her world had ended.

15 years’ on, Bev now has a much better understanding of her type of epilepsy.

Through finding the right balance of medication to help manage her seizures, keeping in close contact with medical specialists and the encouragement she has found through attending support groups, Bev knows that there is a way forward. A diagnosis of epilepsy isn’t the end of your life – merely the beginning of a different one. She wants everyone to know that there is always a way forward, it’s about finding what works for you.

Epilepsy is a complicated condition, which presents in many ways. Many of us are familiar with grand mal or petit mal seizures where people begin shaking and/or falling to the ground, but there are other, less known forms. Bev has a form of epilepsy called complex partial seizures with absence, which means she doesn’t shake or fall to the ground, but she becomes confused, “loses the plot” and doesn’t know where she is or what she is doing.

When she first started having these symptoms, she thought she was having panic attacks or going mad. She’d start to think “oh, my god, what’s going on?” and feel like she was losing her mind. Her memory started to become hazy, and some people misunderstood her symptoms and reacted in a negative way to her. Once she received

a diagnosis, things became clearer and under the care of her doctor and neurologist she began to understand what epilepsy meant for her and her life.

For Bev, medication has been key to managing her seizures. At first there was a lot of trial and error to get the balance of medications right. It became a fine art of balancing one medication and its side effects against the side effects of another medication. It’s not an easy process, and Bev knows other people with epilepsy often struggle with getting this balance right and can be tempted to give up. It’s essential to be consistent with taking your meds, as this can help to control individual effects of epilepsy and is well-worth the effort.

Another message Bev would like to get across is the vital role support groups play in living with epilepsy. She urges people who have been diagnosed to take advantage of support groups. Margaret at Epilepsy Northland runs support groups and courses to help people and their families live with epilepsy. Getting a diagnosis of epilepsy is a shock for the person, but it’s also hard on families. Bev says families often don’t understand the condition and she’s seen others experience the pain of being isolated from their families.

Her advice to families: “Go to a meeting to gain some understanding. Learn about what epilepsy looks like for different people. Then it can begin to make sense.”

Within the support group, Bev has found a wealth of experience, support and friendship. There she knows that she’s surround-

– Bev’s story

ed by people like her, who truly understand the fears and challenges she has also faced, and they are able to help each other find a way forward. Bev has seen first-hand the effect these groups have on others – she’s seen people who had previously been quiet and withdrawn open up and share their own stories.

Support groups are a wonderful place to learn about epilepsy, and both Bev and her partner have gained insights from this contact with others.

EPILEPSY NZ NORTHLAND EDUCATOR INVITES YOU TO ATTEND SUPPORT GROUPS SUPPORT GROUP

PARENT’S SUPPORT GROUP

Come along and meet others living with epilepsy.

The Northland Epilepsy Educator will be available to provide information and support. First Tuesday of month. Everyone is welcome.

Come along and meet other families living with epilepsy. Morning tea will be provided and there will be some toys available for your children to play with.

Second Wednesday of month.

Whangarei: Brenda Gardner Lounge Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) 71 Bank Street, Whangarei 5 September, 3 October, 7 November, 5 December 10.30am to 12.00 noon (morning tea provided)

Whangarei: Lounge 3, (next to the Toy Library) Central Baptist Church 202 Bank Street, Whangarei 9 August, 13 September, 11 October, 8 November, 13 December 10.30am to 12.00 noon

For enquiries please contact Margaret Dunn Epilepsy Educator on (09) 438-5498 or email northland@epilepsy.org.nz

20

Huntington’s Disease Association

Huntingtons staff from Left: Dipika, Jo and Jenna.

T

he Huntington’s Disease Association (Auckland) Inc is currently working with 700+ people living with symptoms, at risk of developing symptoms, or at risk of developing symptoms of Huntington’s Disease in the Auckland and Northland regions. With the hard work and dedication of Manager, Jo Dysart and Dipika MacKenzie (Family Support Co-ordinator) support the carers, family members, GP’s, medical specialists and support agencies.

Family Liaison Service Our professional staff are Huntington’s Disease (HD) specialists who help families and professionals respond to the unique challenges of HD. The clients of the Individual and Family Services programme are the person living with HD, their caregivers and family members including people at risk.

Support Service Our staff provides counselling and facilitates the process whereby people living with HD adjust in all areas of life to losses brought about by the progression of the disease. This service includes assessing people’s needs through one to one consultations, educating clients about HD and giving information about community services, finding sources of support, facilitating appropriate referrals and then following up. The service can involve setting goals with the clients, strategizing and solution focused problem solving, either working individually with clients or in groups.

Service Development This service includes assessing the needs of families living with HD, identifying the gaps in local services and then preparing and carrying out plans to ensure clients receive appropriate medical, social service and other community services. Our staff educates generic agencies about HD and provide support. They deliver consulting services to health and social service professionals and advocate for the development of new services; or they work to tailor existing services to meet the needs of individuals and families living with HD. This service is performed by working with service providers

individually or in a group setting and by influencing them to provide a complete continuum of care for HD families.

Education and Awareness For over 30 years we have been providing information about Huntington’s Disease to those living with HD, their carer’s as well as the support agencies and medical professionals. Information ranges from symptomology of HD to how to manage the symptoms.

What is Huntington’s Disease?

Huntington’s disease is a hereditary neurodegenerative disorder caused by and expunction in the IT-15, or Huntington’s gene on chromosome 4.

Each child of an affected parent has a 50% chance of developing the disease, most people with HD develop symptoms in their forties and fifties although around 10% of patients have onset of symptoms before age 20 and 10% have onset after age 60.

Huntington’s disease manifests as a triad of motor, cognitive, and psychiatric symptoms which begin insidiously and progresses over many years until the unfortunate death of the individual. The average survival time after diagnosis is between 15-20 years.

Who Gets It? Huntington’s is a genetic disorder. About one in every 10,000 people has HD and approximately five in every 10,000 are at risk of developing the disease. The HD gene is dominant, which means that each child of a parent with HD has a 50% chance of inheriting the disease and is said to be “at risk”. Males and females have the same risk of inheriting the disease. Huntington’s occurs in all races.

Primarily, HD affects adults. Symptoms usually appear between the ages of 30 and 45 but there is Juvenile HD which appears in children and late onset HD in adults in their 60’s.

What are the Symptoms?

There are three main types of symptoms in Huntington’s disease: physical symptoms including involuntary movements and diminished coordination; emotional symptoms including depression, irritability and obsessiveness; and cognitive symptoms, including loss of ability to recall information, loss of attention and difficulty with decision making.

Liaison We are privileged to work alongside clinical experts and DHB’s offering a multi-disciplinary team approach to the individuals and family/ whanau affected by HD. Along with this we have tight links with the Auckland University Centre for Brain Research and our Patron Professor Richard Faull. We therefore have ongoing updates on clinical research and research to help develop treatments and one day, a cure.

CONTACT DETAILS: PO Box 16181, Sandringham Auckland 1351 Phone: (09) 815 9703 Freephone: 0800 432 825 huntingtonsakld@xtra.co.nz www.hdauckland.org.nz

21

Huntingtons Personal Story

O

n the 18th of May 2017, 10 family members of the Huntington’s community had the most amazing chance of meeting the Pope. This all started when Jo Dysart (Manager of Huntington’s Auckland) got an email about Pope Francis wanting to meet with HD sufferers and families. In our wildest dreams, we never imagined meeting the Pope, but it happened!!

I don’t think words can describe how we were all feeling as Pope Francis entered Paul XI Hall inside the Vatican Church of the Pope.

New Zealand was not only honoured by being mentioned as the group who had travelled the longest distance, we were also honoured by having VIP seats, which enabled all 10 of our group to have a personal encounter with Pope Francis.

Many emotions were displayed on this day. From anger of the devastating effects that Huntington’s disease has, to tears and then to joy and laughter. It was most definitely a day that the Auckland Huntington’s community felt loved and united as one loud voice and it’s a day we will never forget. United with the other 26 countires in attendance.

We would like to give thanks and prayers to Jo. If it wasn’t for her, none of this could have happened. Nothing was overlooked from appropriate accommodation, special dietary requirements, wheelchair accessibility and transportation to and from the venues Her hard work/devotion and caring attitude really brought the whole group together to have an amazing time whilst abroad in Rome, Italy.

We were also astonished at the lack of care available in many countries such as South America, where the disease is even more “hidden” than here, and where they cannot obtain the most basic medication needed. Two sisters in our group said that they “felt the spirit of their parents with them” and also beautifully represented their brother and sister who are both in the late stages of HD, by holding up a photograph of the pair.

The teenagers of our group said that they believed Pope Francis was “the most serene compassionate man, a true humanitarian” and we must say that we think everyone who was fortunate enough to be a part of this unique journey across the globe, would full heartedly agree.

We would also like to take this opportunity to thank the Huntington’s Disease Association Auckland, the Neurological Foundation and The Hugh Green Trust for helping to fund this unforgettable experience.

Just an amazing sacred journey was had by all.

22

Motor Neurone Disease Association

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he Motor Neurone Disease Association NZ Inc. is an Incorporated Society and registered charity and was formed over 30 years ago to offer support, information and advocacy. We work closely with service providers which exist across the Northland area to give the best care for those living with Motor Neurone Disease, including the families, carers, health professionals and service providers involved.

• The MND Association offers: • One to one support.

• Information packs and newsletters.

• A MND management booklet for health professionals.

• An active website www.mnda.org.nz • A Facebook page www.facebook.com/mndanz • Education sessions for health professionals and service providers.

• Public promotions and awareness activities.

What is Motor Neurone Disease (MND)?

MND is also known as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) or Lou Gehrig’s Disease. The term refers to a group of progressive conditions in which the nerve cells – motor neurones – that control muscle movement deteriorate, muscles gradually weaken and waste away affecting mobility, speech, swallowing and breathing.

Who gets Motor Neurone Disease?

MND is most common in adults between 50 -70 years but can occur in both younger and older adults. It is a little more common in men and is seen across all ethnic groups. In over 90% of cases there is no known family history. It is not contagious and cannot be transmitted from one person to another.

MND presents differently from person to person making it difficult to predict the course of the condition but people living with MND become increasingly dependent on others and their life expectancy is much shorter than it might have been.

The cause of MND is unknown. Currently there is no known cure although researchers are excited about the progress they are making in understanding the disease.

Northland Fieldworker Gilly Noon has joined the MND Support Team in North Auckland/ Northland with 25 years’ experience of supporting people at challenging times in their lives. With a counselling background and qualifications in professional supervision, she has experience across a range of settings including Hospice, education, custodial services and not-for-profit agencies involved with health and disability challenges such as MND. Please contact Gilly Noon the MND Support Worker for the Northland area to find out more.

MOTOR NEURONE DISEASE ASSOCIATION

Yarnton House, 14 Erson Avenue Royal Oak, Auckland PO Box 24036, Auckland 1345 Phone: (09) 624 2148 Mobile: 027 202 8166 Email: northfieldwork@mnda.org.nz www.mnda.org.nz www.facebook.com/mndanz

Health and disability challenges

G

illy Noon has joined the MND Fieldworker Team in North Auckland/ Northland with 25 years’ experience of supporting people at challenging times in their lives. With a counselling background and qualifications in professional supervision, she has experience across a range of settings including Hospice, education, custodial services and not-for-profit agencies involved with health and disability challenges such as MND. Gilly has worked and volunteered with community groups and enjoys the networking aspect of her role, believing this results in the best service to clients. Most recently she was working with Strengthening Families on the Hibiscus Coast and has lived in the North Rodney area for ten years, loving the lifestyle

and the community.

Although working part-time, Gilly is diligent in responding to emails, text and phone messages when in the office so please contact her on:

WALK 2 D’FEET MND Hatea Loop Track, Whangarei Sunday 12 November, 11am www.mnda.org.nz/walk

23

“No Problem, You’re Welcome”

C U S TO M E R S E R V I C E S K I L L S T R A I N I N G I N D I S A B I L I T Y AWA R E N E S S “No Problem, You’re Welcome” is a training workshop and video which focuses on how to provide excellent customer service to people with disabilities when they enter your place of business.

Did you know that 24 percent of New Zealanders are considered to have a disability?

That potentially represents one quarter of your customer base – are your service staff equipped with the right customer service skills to ensure a positive customer experience for everyone?

Who is the workshop for?

This half-day customer service skills training programme is ideal for retailers, health service providers, Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) and other businesses or organisations to improve the level of disability awareness with their frontline staff.

These include:

• Restaurants and cafés • Retail stores • Health services • Disability services • Insurance companies • Financial advisors • Legal and accounting professionals • Car dealerships and vehicle services • Hair and beauty businesses • Travel agents " !#0(+ ,--1( *.% /'.$(( &$.')$( • Non-Government Organisations • Local/Regional Council • Government Departments

If you want to ensure your team is providing excellent customer service to 100% of the people who come through your door, contact Tiaho Trust for information and pricing options. Email Sheryl Kibblewhite: Sheryl@tiaho.org.nz Tiaho Trust I Ph 09 430 3406 | Fax 09 438 1679 | Web: www.tiaho.org.nz

24

Northland MS Society Inc.

N

orthland Multiple Sclerosis Society offers a wide variety of services to people with MS, family/whanau members and carers. The Northland area extends from Wellsford, coast to coast to Cape Reinga.

The service provides information, education and support, encouraging a proactive approach to managing this disease. If you have MS the Society provides for you and your family and/or carers: • A MS Field Officer/Educator who is a NZ Registered Nurse.

• Home visits. Support and information to you and your family about your condition or in your role as a caregiver.

• Educates you, your family and other health professionals about MS and related disorders.

• Advocates for you with other support agencies and health professionals and

informs you of services available in the community.

• Provides education material and books, both available from the MS office.

• Holds support groups for those with MS. • Free Yoga classes held weekly in Bank Street, Whangarei.

The following free resources are available: • Comprehensive explanatory booklets and MS library books to take out on loan.

• Bi-monthly newsletter which includes useful information on research and development of MS and advice on staying well.

• Field Officer outreach service from Wellsford to Cape Reinga, coast to coast.

What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?

Multiple Sclerosis is one of the most common diseases of the central nervous system.

A fatty substance called the myelin sheath covers the fibres of the nervous system.

The myelin protects the nerves and helps the messages move between the brain and the rest of the body.

In MS, the myelin sheath covering the nerves in the brain and spinal cord become scarred in scattered patches.

This is multiple scarring, or sclerosis. Essentially this distorts or Lowest prices prevents the flow of messages from in Northland, the brain and the Compare spinal cord to other parts of the our prices and body.

The distortions save money to the messages travelling through the nervous system cause a range of problems for the people with MS. Although it is important to note that there is no typical set of MS symptoms, the following are common (in vary-

ing combinations or severity): • Loss of balance or coordination.

• Tremor and weakness.

• Blurred or double vision, eye pain (usually only affecting one).

• Difficulty with legs, arms and hand movements.

• Bladder and bowel problems.

• Numbness and pain.

• Problems with thinking and remembering.

• Sexual problems.

• Fatigue.

What Causes MS? At this time the cause of MS is still unknown.

However, research suggests it is likely to be a combination of the following: a reaction to a virus, possibly years after infection; exposure to an unknown environmental agent before puberty; an auto-immune reaction in which the body attacks its own tissue for an unknown reason; or a genetic susceptibility to the above triggers.

How is MS Treated?

While MS still cannot be cured, much can be done to help manage the condition.

There are MS-specific treatments available.

These directly target the immune system. A Neurologist determines whether these are relevant for each person. Generally the person with MS works with their GP on the day to day management of the condition.

As our Office Administrator is only available 14 hours per week (Monday and Tuesday from 9am - 2.30pm / Wednesday 9am to 12pm), urgent contact can be made through the Field Officer/Educator’s cell phone.

NORTHLAND MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS (MS) SOCIETY Suite 6, 71 Bank Street Whangarei Email; nthlndms@ xtra.co.nz Phone 09 438 3945

25

It was nice to know I wasn’t alone

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onna Rogers was diagnosed with relapsing-remitting Multiple Sclerosis in 2007. “When I tell people I have MS they say: ‘You don’t look sick, you look so normal.’ I am not sure what normal is anymore, I only know that life before MS was a lot more active and productive,” Donna says. “It’s hard to plan ahead as sometimes I wake up in the morning and “Being part of the my legs are tingling. It Northland MS Society depends how I feel when has provided me with I get up as to what the support, strength, and day holds for me. Some mornings it can take the courage to face the some time to get the challenges of life that body moving and some MS brings” days it feels okay.”

But Donna has a goal and that goal is to make more people aware of this incurable (at this stage), progressive nervous system disorder. She has been involved with the Northland MS Society since her diagnosis. She was a committee member for six years, three of those years as president, and is still with the committee, now focusing on fundraising. She feels it is vital to keep the Society functioning as this was the first place she turned to after her diagnosis.

“The field officer was more than willing to come to my home and discuss MS with family and friends and answer any questions me or my family had. It was really nice to know that I was not alone and to finally have answers to questions and to know why I was feeling the way I was.”

Donna does the office work for her husband’s business and also does what she can around their lifestyle block. She tends her own gardens and veggie patch but she does have a friend come weekly to help with household chores. “My sister used to say I had ants in my pants. Prior to MS I could do a full day out in the garden unassisted and be very proud of my achievements. I never In the early stages of her journey with MS, sat still. Now I pace myself and plan the Donna tried medications. The first medicaday, although that doesn’t always work out tion she used caused her to experience liver either so I just take the days as they come,” failure which resulted in a stay in hospital for Donna comments. a few days. After that she used a medicaDonna has had a varied and interesting tion that, in her case, had very debilitating working career, living in Holland and workside effects. “Feeling like you have the flu ing for the NZ Immigration Service in The one week, just coming right then having to Hague, Claims Manager in motor vehicle inject yourself again,” she describes it. Now insurance, and her last position was as a Donna does a lot of walking and she also Licenced Private Investigator. “MS is so unfinds that a healthy balanced diet assists predictable that I had to resign from my job. her. “I do take vitamin supplements but that That meant our family income was halved is all.” so some lifestyle changes had to be made.”

Donna hopes to keep her MS at bay and

– Donna’s story

she still likes to travel overseas. “I still take overseas trips with Thailand being one of my favourite destinations,” Donna says. “I do struggle with the heat sometimes but I do quite a bit of walking there. I take a cold bottle of water with me and some frozen wet wipes that gradually thaw out while I walk. They feel great around the back of the neck and over the forehead.”

“I have my ups and downs,” she sums up with, “like everyone else. Thankfully there are more ‘ups’. My husband keeps reminding me that I need the bad days to be able to appreciate the good ones!”

26

NorthAble Disability Services

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orthAble Disability Services is a notfor-profit Community Organisation and Northland’s largest Disability Information Centre, established in1990.

With an office in Whangarei and a mobile van service, Northable provides disability support and information throughout Te Tai Tokerau.

NorthAble DIAS provides an independent disability information and advisory service free to people with a disability, families, whanau, aiga, caregivers, providers and the general public.

NorthAble provides support for living through: NASC Needs Assessment Service Coordination for 0-64 year olds. Information and support options for those eligible to assist to meet goals: • Manage household tasks • Self-care • Supported assistance in the community • Attendance at MOH and MSD funded activity programmes • Carer Support Subsidy providing time out

for unpaid full time carers • Rehabilitation support • Residential Support Services • Support to live in your own residence LYNKZ Vocational and community participation programme for 16-64 year olds including: • Cooking classes - preparing & cooking nutritional every day meals, supermarket shopping & budgeting • Community - support participants to plan activities or attend events of their choice • Life skills - from budgeting to catching a bus, help with CV preparation, work experience and job searching.

VHN Very High Needs service for 16- 64 year olds, supporting people to achieve meaningful engagement through: • Identifying long and short term vocational and community goals • Services and activities that match

their interests, capabilities and needs • Together, making a plan to achieve the set goals • The choices are yours!

Equipment Plus has an extensive range of Rehab, Age Care and Disability mobility equipment and aids to assist with daily living available for purchase or hire. Come in and try with no obligation to buy. We are happy to offer advice - the most important thing is that you get the right product to meet your need.

We also have a mobile van service circulating throughout Northland, Agency Outlets in Dargaville and Kaitaia and online shopping via our website.

NORTHABLE Providing Disability Services Northland wide for 27 years

GET READY NORTHLAND – 2017 GENERAL ELECTION

What are our candidates’ views on disability?

Come along to hear what each candidate has to say on disability issues.

THIS IS YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO ASK QUESTIONS...

Meet the Candidates - Friday 18th August @ 1 - 3pm, Forum North NZSL interpreter will be present disability – a matter of perception

09 430 3406 | tiaho.org.nz

Proudly supported by Jeff Oliver Print NORTHABLE 40 John St, Whangarei 0110 Call 0508 637-200 or 09 430 0988 EQUIPMENT PLUS 73 John St, Whangarei 0110 Call 09 430 3469 Fax 09 438 9468 Email drc@northable.org.nz or equipment@northable.org.nz.

NorthAble website www.northable.org.nz or Equipment Plus website: www.equipmentplus.org.nz.

4 2 PERCENT

27

Turning dreams into plans

H

ave disability, will travel.

That’s the profile of a growing group of tourists.

Among them are people from NorthAble LYNKZ, the community participation group.

Forty-five of them did a road trip to Wellington and they’ve also holidayed in Rotorua, Coopers Beach and Ruakaka.

LYNKZ members show that disability is a matter of perception: how tourists with impairment approach travel and how providers of transport, hospitality, activities and services help or put up barriers.

Aged between 16-64, LYNKZ members have intellectual, physical or sensory disabilities or a combination.

They plan a big trip every other year, meeting to decide where to go and events and activities to participate in.

They must then raise enough to make it happen. With costs for Wellington at $14,000, participants, families and staff got stuck in; washing cars, hosting garage sales, sizzling sausages and selling items.

Fundraising went to new heights when a participant and staff member skydived.

Transportation was part of planning - hiring a bus proved most cost effective.

“We had the most awesome driver, John, wonderful at driving and interacting and helping out,” says NorthAble Client Services Manager Shirley Harvey.

Shirley and another staff member did a Wellington reconnaissance to run a risk assessment on the group’s chosen venues and activities: Parliament, botanical gardens, Te Papa, cable car and waterfront restaurant.

After all the planning and fundraising the Wellington wish-list became a reality.

The tourists broke their bus trip in Turangi staying overnight in a hostel with other travelers.

In Wellington they got straight into action, picnicking along the waterfront and visiting Te Papa.

A highlight was dressing up for a flash dinner at Mac Bar and Restaurant then promenading the waterfront.

“We went to Parliament and were lucky enough to get a meeting and talk with the Disability Minister Nicky Wagner,” says Shirley Harvey, “Everyone was able to ask

all sorts of questions”.

Skills taught at LYNKZ helped on the trip: food preparation, budgeting, how to catch a bus, plan activities, make choices and achieve goals.

With everyone buzzing from Wellington, the crew were soon thinking of future destinations.

Wherever next, they will help redefine tourism and show that disability is a matter of perception.

Our Home is Your Home When support is required to continue living life to the full, Radius Care aims to make the transition into aged care as smooth as possible.

New Zealand owned and operated, our Kiwi values ensure residents are important beyond their medical needs. We provide the best lifestyle possible, support hobbies and interests, and make our home your home.

If you have any questions or would like to look around, please feel free to call or drop in for a chat and tour anytime.

Radius Potter Home

174 Bank Street, Regent. Ph: 09 438 2668

Radius Rimu Park

297 Kamo Road, Whau Valley. Ph: 09 437 3933

Leaders in Care

HIRE EQUIPMENT We have an extensive range of equipment available for short and long term hire

MOBILE VAN SERVICE Regular monthly van visits throughout Northland Demonstrations in your Home Community Group Presentations and Promotions Delivery Service (fees apply)

Phone: 027 453 8797

NORTHLAND SUPPLIERS OF REHAB, AGED CARE, DISABILITY MOBILITY EQUIPMENT AND DAILY LIVING AIDS • ADJUSTABLE BEDS • LIFT CHAIRS • SCOOTERS • WALKERS/WHEELCHAIRS/ CRUTCHES/BATHROOM/ TOILET EQUIPMENT T • KITCHEN AIDS • DAILY LIVING AIDS • CONTINENCE

DON’T THINK UNABLE, THINK NORTHABLE NORTHABLE WHANGAREI Address: Phone: Website: Hours:

73 John Street (corner John & Dent Streets), Whangarei 09 430 3469 • Email: equipment@northable.org.nz www.equipmentplus.org.nz Monday-Friday 8.30am-5pm Saturdays 9am-12pm (closed for long weekends/public holidays)

NORTHLAND EQ+ AGENCIES

Dargaville Agency Greenways Trust 16 Edward St, Dargaville | 09 439 8133 Kaitaia Agency Far North Pharmacy 53 Commerce Street, Kaitaia | 09 408 0851

Making the most of living

EXPO GREAT PRIZES to Be Won

8-9 DECEMBER 2017 FORUM NORTH 10AM-3PM

ENTRY BY

Gold Coin Donation

• SENIOR & DISABILITY SERVICE PROVIDERS & EQUIPMENT RETAILERS • ON SITE CAFE • ACCESS FOR MOBILITY SCOOTERS & WHEELCHAIRS • INTERNATIONAL DAY CELEBRATIONS ON THE FRIDAY • FASHION SHOW

Help us to help Northland bring the Community Together

30

Parent to Parent Northland

E

very year hundreds of Northland whanau face the unique challenges of caring for a baby/child/teen with disabilities and health impairments. Parent to Parent has been supporting these families for the past 34 years with its three core services: 1. Information and support on over 3600 different conditions 2. Training volunteer Support Parents 3. Supporting the siblings of children with disabilities.

No other organisation in New Zealand offers these services, and they are free and confidential.

Northland regional coordinator Don Martin joined Parent to Parent in June, and his first priority is to ‘get out there and link up with people’.

“Northland is a large region, but I hope to make parent and professional interaction with our organisation easier with localised e-newsletters, informal get-togethers over coffee, and visits around the region.”

Don wants to ensure parents and whanau who can benefit from these services, know about them and feel welcome to make contact for more information.

Information Information on over 3600 common to very rare conditions; posted/ emailed information that is easy to understand, tailor-made for a child’s specific condition/s, and in most languages.

Parent Support Connecting with another local parent who has ‘been there’ – a trained Support Parent who has a child with the same/similar condition or experienced similar issues. Support Parents are further enough along the track to feel confident to complete intensive training and ‘give back’ to new parents.

SibSupport Camps and programmes for the brothers and sisters of children with disabilities. All programme leaders have siblings with disabilities, and have been there too.

SibSupport acknowledges the extra effort their ‘different’ home life demands, and gives them the chance to talk about issues such as feeling left out at home or bullying at school.

Our workshops are: • Renew – for parents new to the world of disability • Support Parents – intensive training (and refresher courses) for volunteer parents wanting to support others • SibCamps/SibShops/SibDays – for the brothers/sisters aged 8-18 of people with disabilities • Championing Your Needs – for families and professionals to learn how to be heard and advocate for a child’s educational and living needs • Second Generation – for adult siblings and parents/whanau for a ‘whole family’ approach to lifelong care for their family member with a disability.

Other support services include: • Altogether Autism delivered in partnership with Life Unlimited.

• Care Matters delivered in partnership with SAMS (Standards and Monitoring Service) and Carers NZ. • Prism is autism spectrum disorder (ASD) training for professionals, tailored to suit the organisation and presented by facilitators with significant knowledge of ASD and associated issues.

CONTACT DETAILS Don Martin - Regional Coordinator 291 Kamo Road, PO Box 4295 Whangarei Phone: 09 437 3337 Freephone: 0508 236 236 northland@parent2parent.org.nz www.parent2parent.org.nz Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ parenttoparentnorthland/

31

Walking the unknown, but not alone – Chloe’s story

I

t’s been nearly four years since we learned the reason for the differences I saw in my eldest son Asher. He was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy, which is a progressive muscle disease.

He has had a lot of testing and, as yet, his medical team have been unable to determine the genetic cause of his condition.

He is currently part of an overseas study which involves whole genome sequencing in an attempt to give him a complete diagnosis.

As his mum, it’s been hard for me waiting for the diagnosis.

While we know his muscles are breaking down, we do not know how quickly his condition will progress or what the future will hold for him. We focus on giving him the fullest and most positive life we can – he wants to try everything.

With support from a number of organisations, Asher has been rock climbing, sailing, surfing, competed at the Halberg Junior Disability Games and many more awesome experiences. It’s important to me that he is able to try these things while he is able to enjoy them heartily.

Our lives have been reshaped with this unexpected direction, and it did take time to grieve the loss of what I had imagined for my boy.

I have attended two Renew courses through Parent to Parent Whangarei and found them to be extremely helpful in understanding my own grief and how that was impacting our family.

The initial grief and denial has subsided, and we acknowledge that, for now, we can not know how things will look for him in the future.

Life has settled into the unknown. We are so blessed to have a great support system around us and have many things to look forward to in the future.

I am so lucky to have found other parents through organisations like Parent to Parent to walk this journey with. Together we are stronger and we can not only face anything life throws at us, but reshape it into a positive future for our special kids.

Chloe Hovell is a Whangarei mum who hopes to train as a Parent to Parent support parent.

Lifelong support and information for families caring for a child with a disability or health impairment

EMPOWERING Information on 3600+ disabilities/conditions

SIBSUPPORT

For the brothers and sisters (aged 8-18) of people with disabilities

HOPE

Chat with others who have ‘been there’ too

UNIQUE & FREE services for families/whanau

THANK YOU

to our wonderful volunteers.

We welcome you to join our fantastic team

Connect with Parent to Parent Northland 09 437 3337 • northland@parent2parent.org.nz www.parent2parent.org.nz

32

Parkinson’s Northland

Exercise best form of medication

P

arkinsons Disease derives its name from Dr James Parkinson, who discovered the condition in the late 18th century. This year marks the 200th anniversary of this discovery and this is celebrated on the 11th April 2017.

Over 13,000 New Zealanders live with Parkinson’s. Parkinson’s is a progressive neurodegenerative condition. The most common physical symptoms are tremor, stiffness and slowness of movement. Other symptoms include depression, anxiety or apathy, disturbance of normal sleep, constipation, and trouble swallowing or speaking. The average age at diagnosis is 59. At present Northland has 248 members registered with Parkinson’s Northland and this number is continually rising yearly.

Although it remains a disease with no cure, its management has been

“They have discovered a new cure for weight loss, depression etc. that does not involve taking medication and also has no side effects and it’s called, Exercise” - Mark Simpson;

improved by modern technologies to enable Parkinsonians to lead useful and sustaining lives.

One of the greatest aids is physical exercise and Parkinson’s Northland Division provides a range of activities throughout the North – in Whangarei, weekly walking group, physical exercise, hydrotherapy, physiotherapy, voice exercises and Pilates. In Kerikeri, hydrotherapy and Tai Chi. Support Groups are held monthly in Whangarei, Waipu and Kerikeri. Bimonthly meetings are held in Dargaville and Kaitaia. All of these meetings have a range of activities both educational and social in nature.

The Northland Division’s area extends from Te Hana south across to Kaipara and up to North Cape.

We have two qualified Community Educators who share visiting clients in their own homes to monitor their condition and advise on services through other support agencies. They collaborate with health authorities and give-in-service lectures to rest homes.

Vicki Sadgrove covers central Whangarei, Onerahi, Tutukaka Coast, and all points north. Barbara Leslie covers the southern areas which include Dargaville, Maunu and Whangarei south from junction SH14 and Maunu Road, Ruakaka, Waipu, Mangawhai and districts south to Te Hana.

CONTACTS Co-Ordinator – Trisha Ryan Phone: 09-4376878 northland@parkinsons.org.nz for all Support Group Meetings, Exercise Groups, Voice Exercises.

Educators Vicki Sadgrove Phone 09 437 6876 email

educator.northland@parkinsons.org.nz

Barbara Leslie Phone 09 4376881 educator. northlandsouth@parkinsonsorg.nz Whangarei Walking Group Margaret Page – Phone: 09 435 6239 Pilates – Sarah Pratt – 021 262 0079 Carers’ Only Groups Elizabeth Swift Phone: 09 4360691 elizabethswift@gmail.com

33

Living our life with Parkinson’s

- Brian and Gailene’s story

A

n active, social lifestyle, a can-do attitude and a solid partnership are Brian and Gailene’s key to living with Parkinson’s. They haven’t let it stop them from doing what they want to do, and living their lives to the full.

Brian was diagnosed with Parkinson’s back in 1998, and for him it was early onset. His first symptom was a loss of balance, which he noticed at the sale yards, up on the rails. It was this that sent Brian to the doctor, but even before that, Gailene says in hindsight she noticed other signals. Anxiety and trouble with decisionmaking, slowness of movement and shuffling were out of character for Brian, and impacted upon his work on the farm. They dealt with that by getting extra support, so it didn’t slow them down too much.

In fact, for such an active couple, nothing about the diagnosis with Parkinson’s has slowed them down.

“I vividly remember, right when we first received the diagnosis, we decided we were going to live life with Parkinson’s.” Gailene states.

Brian adds: “It hasn’t stopped us from doing anything,” “We’ve had to go home early from things occasionally.

We’ve broken up a few parties, but that’s it!” Gailene laughs.

Although Parkinson’s cannot be cured, there are treatments that can manage and lesson the symptoms.

One of these treatments is Deep Brain Stimulation, (DBS) where implants placed inside the brain send mild electrical pulses to ‘stun’ the affected areas of the brain, thus blocking abnormal nerve signals. This treatment reduces the characteristic shaking and loss of mobility faced by people living with Parkinson’s.

Brian received this treatment 7 years ago, and he says he noticed the difference as soon as they switched him on.

“I was eating porridge; my hand was shaking badly and I managed to get some of it into my mouth. Then they switched me on, and immediately my hand began to smoothly spoon the porridge into my mouth. It was like a miracle.”

Before the DBS, Brian had great difficulty with basic movements, he could barely walk and would have ended up in a wheelchair had it not been for the DBS treatment.

Now that he’s 70, Brian says that things have changed, but he keeps as active as possible and lives by the motto: “The more you do the more you can do. The less you do, the less you can do.”

Part of their living with Parkinson’s is taking advantage of the many groups and activities available to people with Parkinson’s. They recommend to people newly diagnosed with the condition to get involved with a support group. These groups provide much-needed support – Brian and Gailene emphasise the importance of spending time with people in the same boat as them. Because Brian had early onset Parkinson’s he joined Upbeat, a support group for younger Parkinsonians. This group offers opportunities like walking the Outward Bound, and every two years they have seminars in different parts of the country.

Each week, Brian goes to the gym, he looks forward to a game of golf with a group of friends twice a week, he attends swimming classes designed to build strength and balance and he also does Tai Chi. As well as all that, Brian and Gailene enjoy landscaping their acre section in Kerikeri, going on regular walks and hikes, and they are very involved with their 3 grandchildren, who keep them pretty busy!

Brian and Gailene would like to thank the staff at Parkinson’s Northland for their continued support, advice and encouragement over the years.

Its inspirational to meet with couples like Brian and Gailene, who demonstrate that Parkinson’s isn’t the end of the world – you can still live your life the way you want.

34

Supporting life after stroke in Northland

N

o matter what age you are, a stroke can be devastating and for many people and those around them, a stroke dramatically changes their life. The effect is certainly wider than just the person who had it.

Supporting life after stroke is the role of the Stroke Foundation’s Community Stroke Advisor service.

This service is available throughout Northland to work with stroke survivors and those around them, providing experience, support and hope that is designed to achieve the best possible outcome after stroke.

The Stroke Foundation provides free information about stroke and managing life afterwards through Community Stroke Advisors and via the Stroke Foundation’s website.

The book “Life After Stroke” provides good information and is readily available in hospitals and from Community Stroke Advisors.

COMMUNITY STROKE ADVISORS IN NORTHLAND

Community Stroke Advisors, Lynelle Ngakuru (Far and Mid North) and Chloe Hollows (Whangarei and Kaipara areas), work closely with those who have been affected by stroke, making hospital and home visits, supporting families/whanau and caregivers, advising on accessing care relief services and support.

Lynelle and Chloe’s, general focus is on rehabilitating the stroke survivor back into the community and assisting family/whanau and caregivers to not only understand a stroke but to adjust to their changed circumstances.

Community Stroke Advisors know about, and link clients to local support groups and recreational activities. These include exercise groups, sports clubs, accessible gyms, art and craft groups, therapies, caregiver, partner or family support groups and younger stroke survivor groups.

A new group that was established in 2016 was the Word Masters Whangarei Aphasia Gavel Club which is designed to assist those people who have communication difficulty as a result of a stroke or traumatic brain injury. Another local support initiative is a stroke hydrotherapy group assisted by the Stroke Foundation and run weekly at the Whangarei Aquatic Centre by Physiotherapist Isobel Finlayson.

Stroke support organisations in Northland are located in Kerikeri, Whangarei and Dargaville and can be contacted through a Community Stroke Advisor. These groups provide support to people with stroke, and those around them. They enable people to share experiences, understand more about stroke, meet new people and participate in social activities and special events.

Lynelle Ngakuru – Far &Mid North (Cape Reinga to Kawakawa) Freephone: 0800 566 383 Email: far.north@stroke.org.nz Chloe Hollows – Northland (Kawakawa to Wellsford) Freephone: 0800 459 954 Email:northland@stroke.org.nz Web: www.stroke.org.nz

35

to come from Tiaho

36

The Brain Injury…. the hidden disability

“

My life changed in a blink of an eye” “The worst day of my life” “I didn’t ask them to save my life” “It’s like losing a loved one but being unable to say goodbye” The brain controls every function of the body and therefore any injury has the potential to be life changing and long term. The brain is very fragile and it is not fully understood how it works.

Brain injury “the hidden disability” - the long term problems of thinking and behaviour can’t be seen unlike someone with a physical disability. People with brain injuries are often seen as lazy or hard to get along with by family and friends.

The causes of brain injury are many and varied, from impact injury’s such car crashes, violence, falls and sports injuries, to health related events such as strokes, infections such as meningitis, brain tumours, neurotoxic disorders, chemical injury due to poisoning by drugs, alcohol, gases, solvents and pesticides.

It can be very difficult to predict what the long term outlook might be as every person, every injury and every recovery is different.

The Brain Injury Association Northland provides a safe, barrier free service to support and assist people understand and navigate through the confusing aftermath of an injury, this includes both the individual with the injury, as well as the family and supporters.

Currently the organisation has one Liaison Officer – Vikki Herdman and covers from Wellsford to Cape Reinga. There are monthly support groups in several areas in Northland. We offer education and information to families and the community; we can assist in finding

appropriate professional assistance and services as well as liaising with ACC, WINZ, Insurers and other health care providers.

We are also very involved with injury prevention and road safety education. We participate in the annual RYDA program in high schools, Court directed driver retraining with St John’s Driving Academy and the roadside Fatigue Stops during the summer with our coffee cart in partnership with local agencies such as NRC and Northland Roadsafety Association.

BRAIN INJURY ASSOCIATION 98 Cairnfield Road, Whangarei Po Box 4001, Kamo.

Phone 09 459 5013 Northland@Mybrain.Org.Nz www.mybrain.org.nz

37

I got to spend time with people who understood – Kyle’s story

I

enjoy the outdoors, collecting old machinery and bringing them back to life. As a spring chicken starting school and throughout my schooling years I struggled both academically and socially. It was obvious that something wasn’t quite right.

I left school at 16, applied for an automatic preapprenticeship course but didn’t meet the academic criteria. I worked various jobs, including labouring and truck driving. Most work mates gave me a hard time I was quiet, and struggled to fit in.

The turning point was in 2009 when I needed a change and left my full-time job. Mum was living in Australia, I thought “Why not live over there for a while?” a change was all I needed and started to fall into place. I joined the rural fire brigade. What a blast to go bush in a fire engine, working into the night with a group of dedicated people.

I enrolled and was accepted into a six month pre trade automotive course at TAFE. Part of the course involved 200 hours of work experience in a mechanical workplace. A member of the rural fire brigade worked at Sunshine Coast Mazda, he organised two days a week work for me. Before long I was filling in for people and after six months I gained full time employment in the workshop

as a trade assistant, I serviced cars and helped the other mechanics. I was offered a mechanical apprenticeship however I returned to New Zealand with my mum in 2011.

Once back home I worked at various jobs. In 2013 I was admitted to hospital with numbness down my left side. The doctors did several tests including a CT scan over four days. It was discovered that 15% of my brain had been damaged by a stroke that I had before I was born. Finally, things made sense. I now knew why I struggled with things that other people took for granted.

Uncle Google, found the Brain Injury Association. We met Vikki and Ove who helped us better understand brain injuries and I also met people who suffer from a range of brain injuries. It was the first time in my life I got to spend time with people who understood and I could relate to.

Another person who had a huge impact in my life is Angela from CCS. She worked tirelessly to help me find a job with a local bus company. It’s an awesome job.

Finally, a lot of my life’s journey would not have been possible without the help of my mum. She has been my number one supporter. Thanks mum.

Bennett & Associates Chartered Accountants

PROUD TO PROVIDE SERVICES TO THE NORTHLAND BUSINESS COMMUNITY NORTHLAND owned, focused and operated accounting firm providing services in: • Audit, Investigation & Forensic Research • Office of the Auditor General Approved School Auditor • Small to Medium Size Direct Business Support and Tax Services • Business Recovery, Turn Around & Insolvency Management • Maori Business Advisory & Mentoring Contact us at: 57 Clyde Street, P O Box 627, Whangarei 0140 Ph: (09) 438 2312 Fax: (09) 438 2912 Email: info@bennettca.co.nz Web: www.bennettca.co.nz

38

Northland Down Syndrome Support Group

T

he New Zealand Down Syndrome Association (NZDSA) is a family/whanau driven organisation to support people whose lives have been changed by Down syndrome.

What is Down Syndrome?

Down syndrome is a life-long condition that causes delays in learning and development. It cannot be cured but problems can be eased if people with Down syndrome have the right help and if other people have a positive accepting attitude.

• It occurs because cells contain an extra chromosome number 21.

• It can occur in any family of any race, culture or religion and is never anyone’s fault.

• In New Zealand one baby in about 1000 is born with Down syndrome; that is one or more babies with Down syndrome born every week.

• People with Down syndrome are individuals and vary in their abilities and achievements. They are contributing members of society.

People with Down syndrome do have features in common, but they also closely resemble their parents and family. Each person is an individual, with a unique appearance, personality and set of abilities.

The extent to which a child shows the physical characteristics of the syndrome is no indication of his or her intellectual capacity.

Northland Down Syndrome Support Group In Northland the Regional Coordinator for Down syndrome is Kathryn Sadgrove who covers from Wellsford to Kaitaia.

Our aims are to promote and advocate for positive attitudes in the wider community, to promote the rights and inclusion of people with Down syndrome and to raise public awareness and promote further the understanding of Down syndrome.

Angie Hawke is our representative on the NZDSA Committee and is able to take any issues affecting Northland families to the National Committee.

Kathryn’s role as volunteer coordinator is to provide support and information to the families that have a new baby born with Down syndrome. Kathryn or Angie will visit the family in the hospital or locally in their own home and provide resource material – parent information packs, educational DVD’s etc.

Northland Down Syndrome Support Group

With the family’s permission we can link them to another family in their own area to provide them with extra support.

We also provide training for parents/ caregivers and connect with families through email and Facebook.

As parents we felt that our young people with Down syndrome needed the opportunity to get-together with other youth who have a disability to socialise, form lasting friendships and relationships.

In 2013 we formed a casual group in which the young people get together once a fortnight to participate in activities, art n craft, movies & pizza etc with the favourite being 10 Pin bowling. The young people just love to hang out together.

Support group meetings are held in Whangarei. Please contact us for more information.

CONTACT DETAILS Kara Road, R D 9, Whangarei Telephone/Fax: 09 434 6273 Freephone: 0800 693 724 Email Address: ksadgrove@xtra.co.nz Face book page: Northland Down Syndrome Support Group Website address: www.nzdsa.org.nz

39

An awesome little guy

C

harles is a shining example of how people with Down syndrome can live lives full of meaning and can play active roles in their families and communities.

Charles has just started intermediate at Dargaville Intermediate where he’s in a mainstream class. The school is supportive of Charles and he’s just one of the kids.

He gets himself up and organised in the mornings, and he takes the bus to and from school. This independence gives Charles a strong sense of his own capabilities, which is a very powerful tool.

As a child in Auckland, Charles’s mum, Lucy used to walk past a Sheltered Workshop on her way to school each day. This is the sort of institution where once upon a time, people with Down Syndrome and other special needs were placed, rather than in mainstream education. Even as a child, Lucy would feel a sense of injustice and sadness at the sight of these people being given menial tasks to do, and that’s all they did, day after day. There was no encouragement or opportunity for them to realise their potential, which is a basic human right.

One of the most important things to remember is that people with Down syndrome are just like everyone else. They all thrive on feeling included and on being given the opportunities to realise their own potential.

Being able to feel successful at something is something we all relish and is vital for everyone’s wellbeing.

When Charles was born with Down Syndrome, Lucy and Eric wanted him to have all the experiences and opportunities that

his 3 older siblings had had. Living on a farm, Charles the opportunity to take on responsibilities which give him a strong sense of belonging and of his own sense of worth. Instead of being told what he can’t do, he’s been encouraged to find the things he can do.

As soon as he could, Charles has been a part of life on the farm. He helps with getting the cows in and feeding the calves. He’s learnt what to do through watching and doing, and his parents both love having his company out on the farm. He also helps his dad by getting off the bike and opening gates for him, without having to be asked.

Lucy also praises the support that’s out there for families of children with Down syndrome. The doctors, the school, and Down syndrome Northland have all been a great source of information and help for Charles and his family.

“I haven’t had to go out and find things to help Charles, they’ve come to us, through the school and through Down syndrome Northland. We’ve had help from everyone.”

Charles’s family have also found positive ways of managing some of the challenges Charles faces, such as issues with talking and strength. He’s been given an iPad device from Talklink which acts as his voice.

The iPad has also helped Charles develop his hand-eye coordination by playing educational games.

He didn’t start walking until he was three, so his family has had to find different ways to build up his strength. They’ve found that a trampoline has been hugely beneficial, as it

- Charles’s Story

builds up his muscle tone and naturally, this is something he thoroughly enjoys!

Charles’s confidence and sunny nature have made him a popular member of the community. Often when they’re out shopping together, Lucy notes how many people greet Charles with big smiles. He even surprises some of them with big hugs out of the blue, and is always received in a positive manner.

In the time that he’s been with them, Charles has taught his family some valuable life lessons.

“He’s taught me patience, to just let the little things go. Life’s too short to worry. Charles is actually my rock. He’s an awesome little guy and it’s an absolute privilege to have him in our family.”

NORTHLAND

DOWN SYNDROME SUPPORT GROUP Main Functions: • Support and information • New parent support • Resource material • Monthly meetings Contact Details: Kathryn Sadgrove Kara Road, RD 9, Whangarei • Phone 09 434 6723

"To promote the participation of pe ople with Down Syndro me in their community "

Freephone 0800 693 724 ksadgrove@xtra.co.nz • www.nzdsa.org.nz

40

Age Concern Whangarei Services

P

romoting the rights and wellbeing of older people and those who care for them.

How do we do this?

We provide a number of services; most are at no cost to the client.

The following gives an overview of what we provide to enable people to age in a place of their choice. Our focus is to enable people to remain safely in their own homes.

Dedicated Carer Relief Service

Are you looking after someone 24/7? This service focuses upon providing stress & social relief for the full time carer so they may utilise their free time to do whatever they wish. Our staff are professionally trained & are able to care for the client well, thus ensuring the carer really has a stress free break for a few hours a week. Carer Support hours can be allocated for provision of this service or carers can pay privately.

Home Safety Maintenance

A wide range of minor repairs and replacements and advice no job too small. We install hand rails, replace light bulbs, change fuses, etc…..anything that is necessary to improve or maintain safety for the client in their home. Materials are at cost for people in their own homes and a call out fee is requested. We have skilled professionals to refer the client to if our Home Safety Maintenance officer is unable to do a particular request. Anyone can refer to this service.

Health Promotion / Education

We hold seminars and programmes usually once or twice a month focusing on positive

ageing, managing own health and well being. We have an annual calendar with a wide range of topics, the focus is to keep people informed & to let them know what is available. A certificate of attendance is provided for those needing proof of their professional development.

Field Work

Our field officer provides Information, Advice, Advocacy and Support by appointment in office or person’s own home. Frequently home visiting will uncover other issues which can be improved by assisting the client to the correct service provider. If the client is unhappy about something they would like help with, our Advocacy service will provide support and assistance. We can also meet the client at their appointments to “act as a second pair of ears” & perhaps take notes for the client. Anyone can refer to this free service.

visitor who will visit, usually weekly, for an hour or so for a chat and cup of tea. Anyone can refer to this service.

Resources

Our members receive local newsletters and an annual calendar of events. We have an information stand board in Age Concern House which has a selection of pamphlets detailing services and information the Whangarei area.

We are an NGO and need to raise all our own funding. We welcome membership to from individuals, Agencies & businesses, donations and bequests.

Membership is not a requirement to access any service of Age Concern Whangarei and we welcome enquiries from anyone. Age Concern Whangarei holds a weekly garage sale on site on Thursday’s from 10-12 noon.

Total Mobility

Our Field Officer also is an Assessor of eligibility for reduced taxi fares for people with disabilities or health problems for whom mobility is a problem. This can be due to many factors such as sight, pain, immobility, requirement for use of aids etc. A visit to the office or a home visit is done and the client is assessed & enabled to use the service. You can be assessed for short term –if a temporary problem- or long term. Anyone can refer to this service.

Accredited Visitors Service

Loneliness can be a major problem with the Older Person and we visit to assess the client in order to provide a suitable accredited

Our information Centre is open 9am – 3.45pm Monday to Friday at 16 Manse Street, Regent Phone: 438 8043 email: info@ageconcernwhg.org.nz

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42

Blomfield School

H

aere Mai and welcome to the Blomfield world of discovery and learning. We are your one stop Specialised Learning Centre in Te Tai Tokerau.

We specialise in learning for all! We believe that all learners have the taonga of potential and it is up to us to discover and uncover this treasure.

Who are our students ?

• They may be anywhere between 5-21 years of age • They must be verified under the Ongoing Resourcing Scheme (ORS). This is funding which is for students with significant additional learning needs.

• They may have physical disabilities and be users of wheelchairs or other mobility equipment • They may have sensory impairments –they may be vision or hearing impaired.

• They may have Autism, or FASD or any number of diagnoses which means they have intellectual , social and communication difficulties • They might be at our new Kamo High satellite, or at a satellite at Manaia View School satellite or Morningside School.

• They might be at the Base school for intensive support or the Transition facility preparing for adult life.

• They might be in Kaitaia –at the Primary or College unit • They might identify culturally as Maori, Pakeha, Indian, Pacific

Islander, African…the list goes on.

• They have gifts and we are here to support them in their journey to discover these gifts and ensure they reach their fullest potential.

• They are themselves. And we are not here to change them. Why would we want to? Just take a look …

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43

BLOMFIELD SPECIAL SCHOOL SUPPORTED BY….

Megan Wills BA, LLB Bridget Westenra LLB Sally Woods BA, LLB Maria Davies BA, LLB (Hon) WHEELCHAIR ACCESS

Wills Westenra Ltd provide legal services in the areas of Enduring Powers of Attorney, Wills, Family Trusts, Property matters and Family law.

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Telephone: 09 4597000 | Facsimile: 09 4596280

Phone 09 438 9809

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TEL: 09 438 8044

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Contact us now to start planning for a more independent and enhanced lifestyle

WHANGAREI OFFICE Ph 09 459 6255

office@disabilityaids.co.nz www.disabilityaids.co.nz

45

Evolutionary Programme Enables Young Persons to Live Their Best Lives - Josephine Wallis, Chief Executive, Geneva Healthcare

G

eneva Elevator’s MSD Very High Needs Programme has been running now for just over a year very successfully and enabling young persons with Very High and Complex Needs to live their best lives.

Transition Specialist, Geneva Elevator. Sarah Halliday, Geneva Elevator General Manager, says they are geared to increase this service in Northland to cater for growing demand and set to make a huge difference in its community.

The ‘Evolution-eers’ are very much involved in planning and enjoying stimulating activities that cater to their individual needs, capabilities and aspirations. The purpose built centre at 6 Cooke Street comes alive with fun and life enriching activities including visual arts, music, dance, singing, cooking classes and other physical activities, as well as physio and other therapies.

If you have a friend or family who could benefit from Geneva Elevator’s Evolution Programme in Whangarei, please contact:

Weather permitting, adventures extend out into the community with much loved regular outings.

Momina Saeed 09 531 5612 or 027 228 8548 mominas@genevaelevator.co.nz Or your welcome to visit the site at 6 Cooke Street, Whangarei and speak with the Team Leader Julia Willemen on Monday, Tuesday or Friday from 8:30am - 3pm.

Very High Needs Services:

Geneva Elevator offers a service to students and young people with Very High Needs (VHN) who are school leavers 16 and over with VHN funding.

We offer an Individualised Service that is tailored to suit each person’s needs, capabilities and aspirations. Within this service there are a variety of options that can assist a wide range of people.

We have a day programme currently running at 6 Cooke Street, Whangarei Mondays and Tuesdays – we welcome visits so please pop in and meet the team.

Transition Services:

If you’re a school leaver or aged 16 - 21 years with a health condition or Very High Needs + ORS funded, we can help you continue your studies, find a job or work experience, and participate in community activities you enjoy.

Private Transition Services:

Are you a non ORS funded student wanting a Transition Service? If you are a student with a diverse need, Geneva Elevator can offer you a coordinated ‘transition from school’ programme. This means we work together with you, your family, and your school to help you achieve your gaols for the future.

If you or a family member is Deaf or Hearing Impaired and looking for services we can most definitely help.

0508 353928

mominas@genevaelevator.co.nz

46

Citizens Advice - Whangarei

C

itizens Advice Bureau Whangarei has a 44-year proud history of serving the needs of the people of the district.

The bureau is on the accessible ground floor of the Municipal Building at 71 Bank Street.

It is staffed by trained, helpful and highly motivated volunteers, and is open from 9am to 4.30pm. The information provided is free and current, and the service independent and confidential.

CAB works to ensure that people do not suffer from not knowing their rights or the services available to them, or because they cannot express their needs or viewpoint effectively.

Last year the bureau fielded some 8,000 enquiries - on relationship issues, health and welfare, employment, consumer rights, human rights, insurance and banking problems, parenting orders, debt, government department disputes, housing, and contacts for clubs, social groups and leisure activities.

A free legal advice clinic is run every second Tuesday evening, with the voluntary time of a roster of local lawyers. Bureau advocates

â&#x2013; CAB Information OfďŹ cer Sabrina Paulsen, left, and Coordinator Moea Armstrong at the Municipal Building, aka the Old Town Hall.

KAURILANDS

SKILLS CENTRE TRUST

DARGAVILLE We operate a rurally located, 24 hours a day, holistic programme for adults with an intellectual disability, who prefer country life rather than the busy city. Our programme encompasses work, leisure, spiritual and family/whanau involvement. The centre is located on a 100 acre farm with three main group homes, and 3 cabins.

We have a large barn where activities such as Karaoke, Cooking and the Gym are on offer for all service users.

We also have a huge spa available too.

Many people that live at Kaurilands have the opportunity to participate in paid employment, community activities as well as the odd to cruise to the Islands.

Our advice is free.

Not getting it could cost you though.

71 Bank Street, Whangarei Please contact Karen Duncan for more information on 09 439 2140 or managerklsc@xtra.co.nz www.kaurilandsskills.co

Phone 438 8046 Te Pou Whakawhirinaki o Aotearoa

cab.whngr@xtra.co.nz www.cab.org.nz

47

■ CAB volunteers get some light relief from the job at a harakeke workshop taken by local weaver Mandy Sunlight. can also help clients with more complex consumer, vehicle or beneficiary issues. New migrants are especially welcome with CAB offering assistance with immigration advice clinics, workshops on various topics, and one-to-one support for settling in to the area.

If you feel frustrated by a situation, or think you may have been sold a dud and are not sure what to do next, ask CAB. Call on freephone 0800 367 222, or 438 8046, or come in to sort out face to face any issues you may be struggling with – there will always be a friendly person to talk to, with relevant options to consider.

You can also ask questions by email at whangarei@cab.org.nz, or access real time interviewers through the website itself, cab.org.nz.

Whangarei co-ordinator Moea Armstrong says “people really appreciate the chance to talk to someone in person about their problems. Although there’s great information out there, a lot of people want help to work out how that information relates to them, and that’s where we can help. We provide a person to person advice service that is independent, confidential and free of charge”.

“We have a great group of well trained volunteers who are here to help, and have access to huge information resources including a database with over 35,000 organisations listed. So if we don’t have the answer we will be able to point you to someone who does”.

“There’s legal information on our website cab.org.nz, but sometimes it helps to talk about your issue with someone”.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO ATTEND THE CENTRE? We are an Adult Day Care Centre in our 22nd year of operation in the Whangarei District. We provide quality day care for adults of all ages, including the elderly, frail, and those with head injuries, memory loss and / or other disabilities. We are open from 8.30am - 4.00 pm Monday - Friday 49 weeks of the year.

We provide A secure, attractive purpose built environment. A range of interesting activities, therapeutic rehabilitation, motivation, meals, transport, excursions. Our stafff are qualified skilled, and experienced and we have a wonderful team of volunteers.

We welcome enquiries and visits forgetme-not@forgetmenot.org.nz • www.adultdaycentre.co.nz * Frozen meals available on request

Ph: 09-437 1144 110 Boundary Rd, Tikipunga, Whangarei.

48

Halberg Disability Sport Foundation

E

nsuring that New Zealanders with a physical disability can experience the benefits of sport and recreation is the goal of the Halberg Disability Sport Foundation. It is a vision led by the Foundation’s Adviser in Northland, Maia Lewis, who sees first-hand the positive impact that sport and recreation can have on the lives of young people.

The Halberg Disability Sport Foundation was founded by Olympic legend, Sir Murray Halberg, in 1963. The Foundation aims to enhance the lives of physically disabled people through sport and recreation.

Tutukaka Coast based Maia achieved sporting success herself as a player and captain of the New Zealand women’s cricket team and has recently been inducted as an honorary member of the MCC Lords Cricket Club in England.

As a Halberg Lead Adviser, Maia connects physically disabled people with sport and recreation opportunities in the region. She also works with local sports organisations and schools to support them to provide ■ Kaikohe East Primary School Prinicpal Chicky Rudkin (right) joins in on inclusive sports opportunities. wheelchair basketball at the school’s disability sports day Maia delivers the Halberg NET – an inclusive training course on adapting physical activity, sports and recreation to include all participants.

Fourteen teachers from Kaikohe East Primary School completed a Halberg NET in 2016 with the aim of gaining ideas and strategies for including disabled students.

Principal Chicky Rudkin says the NET has enhanced the opportunities for all students and had a very positive impact on participation.

“Our teachers are committed to continuing to share, discuss and create ways to modify activities, especially now that we have the tools to make it work.”

“We really enjoyed strategising, discussing and doing the activities to ensure opportunities offered to our pupils are not just appropriate but also fun,” she said.

After seeing the school’s approach to the training, Maia said that it is a shining example of a school where there is a naturally inclusive attitude to sport and recreation.

To sign up for a Halberg NET course go to www.halbergallsports.co.nz.

■ Halberg Lead Adviser Maia Lewis and Mitchell O’Brien of Whangarei play goalball

The Halberg Disability Sport Foundation delivers NET – an inclusive training course on adapting physical activity to ensure ALL New Zealanders can participate in sport and recreation activities.

Halberg NET is a Professional Learning and Development (PLD) course which incorporates theory and practical elements and is presented to schools, clubs and organisations on-site by a Halberg Adviser. Participants receive the training, tools and confidence to provide inclusive sport and recreation activities across various abilities and skill sets.

For more information or to register for a Halberg NET course go to www.halbergallsports.co.nz or contact Halberg Lead Adviser Maia Lewis on maia@halberg.co.nz or 021 995 951.

IDEA SERVICES

IS AN IHC SERVICE IN YOUR COMMUNITY

TE TAI TOKERAU

EMPOWERING PEOPLE WITH INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY TO LIVE, LEARN, WORK AND ENJOY LIFE, IN OUR COMMUNITY OF TE TAI TOKERAU.

Supported Living: We support people in their daily living, to participate in their community and take control of their own life and make their own decision. Stuart Jenkins states “

“I live in supported living, which I love.

Support is there for me when I need it, both during the week and in the weekends.

‘‘

‘‘

Vocational and Day opportunities: We support people with intellectual disabilities to get jobs, paid and voluntary and be active members of our community.

This includes Supported Employment services to support the employee and employer.

IDEA Services supports people with intellectual disabilities to participate in activities in our community. Activities are based on the interests of the people that use the Service. We also offer a range of special interest programmes that focus on developing people’s skills such as arts, crafts and gardening.

Accommodation Services: In residential services small groups of people live in a home in our community. In Te Tai Tokerau we have 31 residential homes throughout our beautiful region.

At IDEA Services we are all about People. Throughout Te Tai Tokerau we employ more than 250 people to work alongside families and the people that need our support.

If you love people and supporting people to reach their potential, then you should consider working with IDEA Services. Our Support workers are well supported with training and development opportunities that lead to a formal qualification.

In talking to our people that work for IDEA Services in Te Tai Tokerau there is the common theme of making a difference in people’s lives. Lexine has worked for IDEA Services for 10 years seven as a Support Worker and three as a Service Manager.

‘‘

My inspiration and passion for my work is driven by the reward of trust and happiness we see in the people we support when there is improvement in the quality of their lives. When things improve in such positive ways it is very humbling and brings a greater appreciation of the things in life that can so easily be taken for granted.

‘‘

Our aim is to provide an environment where we are responsive, that people feel included, and supportive of people with intellectual disabilities to feel empowered with the choices they make in their lives.

Our Services are centered on the person and their wha¯nau and families. These include:

Want to know more about us go to www.idea.org.nz or www.ihc.org.nz

or come in to our Whangarei Office 151 Bank Street, Whangarei (next to McDonalds) phone Sally Hume, Area Manager on 09 470-2008 or the main office 09 470 2000.

If you are interested in a fantastic career with us phone Anne Dix 0800 WORK 4 IHC (0800 9675 4442) or apply online at careers.ihc.org.nz

50

Get The Best Of Rest Home Care

D

eciding to move into a rest home is a major decision involving many factors that you will want to weigh up. The end result should be an improved quality of life. Older people often tell us that the move into a rest home is easier when the decision is ultimately their own.

You can get a list of rest homes in your area from the District Health Board, your local Aged concern, or the Needs Assessment and Service Coordination agency.

Age Concern recommends shopping around, visit the homes and compare them.

There are checklists available to assist you: Consumer magazine: Rest home checklist Alzheimer’s New Zealand Residential Care

Checklist www.findaresthome.co.nz is a great website that gives further information about what you need to know about the aged care process: from how to get an assessment through to entering into a rest home or hospital.

It is a good idea to start looking as soon as you think you might need a rest home, as it

may not be easy to do so once you actually need the care. When you find a home you like, ask to have your name put on a waiting list.

You can do this even if you have not yet been assessed as needing care. If the rest home of your choice doesn’t have a vacancy when you need it and you have to move into another home instead, ask to transfer to the home you prefer as soon as a suitable place is available.

For further information go to www.ageconcern.org.nz Shalom Aged Care, that lovely old villa on Mill Road, over the road from the croquet club, where 30 residents call home. All with individual rooms, some with en suite’s, doors onto the deck some with a view of Whangarei’s iconic, Mount Parahaki. The recent renovations ensure all the rest home residents have single, spacious, light, sunny rooms. The large deck at the back is also very inviting and we have great BBQ’s there in summer. Varied activities are offered starting each day with chair exercises and then a

Providing quality Rest Home, Hospital and Dementia care in a safe and homelike environment

Ph: (09) 439 6214

68-72 Normanby Street, Dargaville admin@norfolkcourt.co.nz See our website on www.eldernet.co.nz and www.nzaca.org.nz

wide range of fun diversions to fill your day.

All the food is homemade and prepared by our great cooks, so it is fresh and appealing, and we cater for any special dietary requirements. Experienced clinical staff are on duty to care for you around the clock, and all laundry is done for you. Visitors are always welcome, even the 4 legged kind We would love to have you call in to discuss any questions you might have regarding entering rest home care.

51

Respite support options tailored to meet your needs How can we help you?

S

pectrum Care offers a wide array of flexible respite support options, which can be structured to suit each person’s unique needs.

These include after-school, weekend and school holiday programmes, as well as infant, child and youth, and adult respite, as well as in-home respite - also known as ‘home support’.

Our flexible support options take into account each person’s individual needs, and include planned activities such as arts and crafts, cooking, games, sports and outings to interesting places, while also allowing time for unstructured activities and fun.

We currently provide these respite support options at 17 sites across the Northland, Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty and Wellington regions, and offer a wide range of

fun activities, all designed with the people attending in mind.

All are staffed by trained Community Support Workers and Teacher Aides from the nationwide Special School network, and offer a safe, healthy and structured environment for people with disabilities to have a break from their normal routine, enjoy new experiences and develop their independence.

These individualised support options can be fully funded through your child/loved one’s NASC assessment, partially funded through Carer Support payments, or privately funded on a ‘fee for service’ basis.

Call us today on 09 634 3790 to find out more about our suite of respite support options or to talk about respite support in your area!

Spectrum Care is an independent charitable trust that provides services for children, young people and adults with disabilities and their families.

We believe in providing person-centred services and options that focus on individual needs.

Spectrum Care provides: • Adult support • Advocacy support • Employment support • Aspirations support • Transition support • Home support • Cultural support • Child, Youth and Respite support • Respite support for infants • Weekend, After-school and School Holiday Programmes www.spectrumcare.org.nz

People with disabilities living great lives

Home Support • Residential Services Independent Living Options • Supported Independent Living Kuia and Kaumatua Programmes

Hours of Service

Office Hours Mon - Fri 8.30am-5.00pm Household Management Mon - Fri 8.00am-5.00pm other times by arrangement Personal Cares and Sleepovers available 7 days per week as per arrangement Kaumatua and Kuia are available if required.

Please contact office for further information on this service.

FREEPHONE 0800 737 573 KAWAKAWA OFFICE 2-4 Rayner Street Tel (09) 404 1489 1551 Fax (09) 404 1876

WHANGAREI OFFICE Level 1/5 Walton Street Tel (09) 430 1248 Fax (09) 430 2385

Postal Address: PO Box 1127, Whangarei 0140

53

TLC4U- Small enough to care big enough to provide

O

ne of the areas tlc4u2 specialises in is providing live in care for elderly people who need assistance with the activities of daily living and/or maintaining their safety in the home. Offering realistic choices, identifying the appropriate level of care, maintaining or enhancing lifestyles, and promoting independence are prime objectives.

You can maintain your lifestyle at home with or without support.

Suzanne Brocx of Whangarei comments, “It is hard to put in words what it meant to my uncle to be able to stay at home. If not for the carers of tlc4u2 I would not have been able to fulfil my uncle’s wish to remain in his own home. I am eternally grateful of the care he received and the service tlc4u2 provides.”

We offer post-operative, rehabilitative, respite, palliative and convalescence care. Our team of carers have a variety of skills and

4u2

knowledge to assist you with your requirements.

Respite care is organised promptly with well skilled carers attending to the needs of the person, giving you peace of mind.

We have assisted with numerous clients in regaining their independence and some no longer require full time assistance.

For example, after being informed during a lengthy stay in hospital that independent living was no longer possible for their mother, tlc4u2 were approached to provide live-in care.

During the assessment, the family agreed to a rehabilitative approach to care. Four months later her granddaughter stated, “I never thought Nana would be able to live on her own again after her long stay in hospital.

She would never have survived moving to a rest home. We are amazed every day by her return to independence.”

We work alongside families to individual-

4u2 T ender L oving C are In your own home ize care needs and incorporate an holistic approach. Tlc4u2 aims to provide a high quality service that is second to none. We have forged close relationships with allied health services(hospice, district nursing, social workers, other home based support service and GPs). Tlc4u2 has access to the best health care resources for their clients.

Should you require some tender loving care for yourself or a family member whether it is respite, live-in, or ACC we are small enough to care but big enough to provide.

tlc4u2 specialises in providing live-in care in your own home, enhancing your life style and independence.

T ender L oving C are In your own home

- Respite Care (short term care) - Long Term Care - Recuperative/Rehabilitation - Palliative care (end of life care) - ACC referrals accepted

For further information contact P 0800852482 W www.tlc4u2.co.nz

54

2017-2018

CALENDAR OF EVENTS AUGUST 2017 1st – 31st

Heart Kids Month www.heartkids.org.nz

8th – 14th

Parent to Parent awareness week www.parent2parent.org.nz

14th -20th

Cystic Fibrosis Week - collection day 18 August www.cfnz.org.nz

18th

Meet the Candidates – Forum North – 9am until 12noon NZSL interpreters will be there more info coming www.tiaho.org.nz

24th

Epilepsy Information Seminar Kaitaia: to register contact Margaret on (09) 438 5498 or northland@epilepsy.org.nz

24th

Daffodil Day www.dafodilday.org.nz

28th – 3rd September

MS Annual Street appeal

SEPTEMBER 2017 1st – 30th

Remember September – Students Against Drunk Driving www.sadd.org.nz September Month - Cerebral Palsy www.cerebralpalsy.org.nz/

4th – 8th

Asthma awareness week www.asthmafoundation.org.nz

23rd & 24th

Alzheimer’s Memory Walk – 23rd Dargaville & Kerikeri 24th Whangarei -Round the loop

21st

World Alzheimer’s Day www.alzheimers.org.nz

22nd to 28th

Arthritis Awareness Week www.arthritis.org.nz

23rd

Walk 2 D’Feet MND www.alzheimers.org.nz

24th

World Deaf Day www.nfd.org.nz

OCTOBER 2017 1st

International Day of Older Person www.ageconcern.org.nz

2nd to 6th

Stroke Awareness Week www.stroke.org.nz

6th

World Cerebral Palsy Day www.cerebralpalsy.org.nz

7th

Big NZ Blood Pressure Check www.stroke.org.nz

10th Annually

World Mental Health Day www.mentalhealth.org.nz

12th

World Arthritis Day www.worldarthritisday.org

12th

World Sight Day

20th

World Osteoporosis Day www.bones.org.nz

24th

United Nations Day www.un.org

NOVEMBER 2017 1st – 7th

Parkinson’s Society Awareness and Appeal Week www.parkinsons.org.nz

1st – 30th

Epilepsy New Zealand “Talk about it” Campaign month www.epilepsy.org.nz

9th

Epilepsy Information Seminar Kaikohe: to register contact Margaret on (09) 438 5498 or northland@epilepsy.org.nz

29th

Epilepsy Information Seminar Kaitaia: to register contact Margaret on (09) 438 5498 or northland@epilepsy.org.nz

30th

Epilepsy Information Seminar Whangarei: to register contact Margaret on (09) 438 5498 or northland@epilepsy.org.nz

55

2017-2018

CALENDAR OF EVENTS DECEMBER 2017 8th

Tiaho Trust celebration of IDPD, Forum North, Whangarei 10am until 3pm - More info coming www.tiaho.org.nz

3rd Annually

International Day of People with Disabilities (IDPD)

10th Annually

World Human Rights Day www.amnesty.org.nz

FEBRUARY 2018 1st – 28th

Heart Foundation Awareness Appeal www.heartfoundation.org.nz

12th (2nd Mon in Feb)

Annual International Epilepsy Day www.epilepsy.org

MARCH 2018 21st Annually

Down Syndrome Awareness Day www.nzdsa.org.nz

26th

Epilepsy Awareness “Purple Day” www.purpleday.org

APRIL 2018 2nd Annually

World Autism Awareness Day www.autismnz.org.nz

7th Annually

Bronchiectasis Awareness Day www.bronchiectasisfoundation.org.nz

11th Annually

World Parkinson’s Day www.parkinsons.org.nz

MAY 2018 1st – 31st

Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month

30th

World Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Day www.worldmsday.org

JUNE 2018 21st

MND Awareness day www.mnda.org.nz

27th

Annual Helen Keller Communication Day www.blindfoundation.org.nz

PARKINSON’S NORTHLAND SUPPORT GROUPS Kerikeri- 3rd Thursday monthly Kaitaia – 3rd Tuesday every 2nd month Whangarei – 1st Friday monthly Dargaville – 1st Thursday every 2nd month Waipu – 3rd Friday monthly

BRAIN INJURY ASSOCIATION NORTHLAND SUPPORT GROUPS Kerikeri – 1st Thursday monthly Dargaville – 2nd Thursday monthly Kaitaia – 3rd Thursday monthly Whangarei – The last Thursday monthly

8th & 9th of december Tiaho Trust celebration of IDPD, Forum North, Whangarei 10am until 3pm More info coming www.tiaho.org.nz

Medical Alarms

Why a Bupa Medical Alarm could be for you.

Enjoy peace of mind with a Bupa medical alarm. We offer 24 hour assistance, nationwide, seven days a week and we’ll cover any emergency ambulance costs.

We have a range of alarms, sensors and accessories that cater to specific circumstances. We can find a solution to suit.

Contact Marie for more information.

Call Marie Minhinnick on 0800 60 80 99 or 027 290 1161

bupa.co.nz