Getting Out There 2016

Find out why Jane Mander

ticks all the boxes...

Beautiful townhouses and apartments Resthome, hospital and dementia care gyy hair and beauty Bowling green, pool and spa, gym, salon and even a movie theatre!

Fixed weekly fees for life - guaranteed!*

*Terms and conditions apply

6016

For more information please call Tammy on 09 435 3803 262 Fairway Drive, Kamo

CONTENTS Page 4 - 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8-9 Page 10-11 Page 12-13 Page 14-15 Page 16-17 Page 18 -19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 24-25 Page 26-27 Page 28-29

Tiaho Trust Information and Services A Word from Jonny Wilkinson –CEO Tiaho Trust Tiaho Trust –about the organisation Alzheimers Northland and Maria’s story Arthritis New Zealand with Kayleigh and Nicole’s stories The Blind Foundation Works with Youth CCS Disability Action and Aleesha’s flair for food Deaf Aotearoa and Alana’s story Epilepsy NZ and James’ story Huntington’s Disease Association’s services Motor Neurone Disease Association’s services Northland Multiple Sclerosis and Chelsea tells her story Discover Learning for all Ages at Blomfield NorthAble Disability Services and Dylan’s story Parent to Parent, Altogether Autism and the Wickens family Page 30 -31 Parkinsons and Raewyn’s mantra to “ keep laughing” Page 32 The Stroke Foundation and Anne-Marie’s story Page 34-35 Brain Injury Association Northland and Jayden’s story Page 36-37 The NZ Down Syndrome Association and Sam’s passion for music Page 38 Age Concern Whangarei Page 39 Diabetes NZ Northland Page 40 Geneva launches the Evolution Programme in Whangarei Page 42 Selecting the Best Retirement Village Page 43 Spectrum Care Respite and Residential Support Page 44-45 Services Supporting our Senior Citizens Page 47 Tiaho Trust Calendar of Events

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

GETTING OUT THERE – BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

T

his is the 5th edition of ‘Getting Out There’. Again we are bringing this publication to you in conjunction with Tiaho Trust and the 15 organisations they support through the DIAS Collective.

In this publication, we wanted to bring to you information on how many of our services and organisations throughout Northland focus on the elderly and young people, working collectively to “bridge the generation gap” and supply the best level of service to those in need.

These organisations reach communities across Northland and often work under the radar with very little funding. Many people don’t know what these organisations do until their time of need.

I hope this resource gives you a better insight into the services on offer throughout Northland for people of all ages and abilities.

I want to thank all those involved in this publication, for those of you who have told your stories for the first time, with some of you telling us how your lives have changed from one year to the next as you live with your disability.

Lookout for our ‘Getting Out There’ expo in 2017, August 18-19.

Save the date!

The team at the Northern Advocate want to thank Jonny and the team at Tiaho Trust and members of the DIAS Collective for making this publication happen again in 2016, this is one of the most rewarding publications we produce.

Jan Hewitt –Features, Special Projects and Events Manager Kathy Opai-Features and Key Sales Consultant

THE E V A S

E! T A D

EXPO

3

FRIDAY 18-19 AUGUST 2017 BOOK YOUR STAND TODAY! Contact Leanne Broderson Phone 09 470 2821 or events@northernadvocate.co.nz or

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

4

INFORMATION & SERVICES RELATING TO DISABILITY IN NORTHLAND

Edition Eight

Information & Services 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 to find out more 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 information and services in Northland for you and your families/whanau. Tiaho Trust is your first point of call if you are unsure who to contact or have any questions, call us on: FREEPHONE: 0800 430 3406.

The DIAS Collective provides various services about a specific disability, or disability in general, such as: • Advice and information

• Access to health professionals

• Advocacy

• Referrals and assessments

• Community education and awareness

• Equipment

• Support groups and networking

• Seminars/workshops

• Home visits

• 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.

North la nd Down Sy ndr ome Support Gro up

For DIAS contact details please refer overleaf

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

INFORMATION & SERVICES RELATING TO DISABILITY IN NORTHLAND

5

A Tiaho Trust Project

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

Arthritis New Zealand

Blind Foundation

Brain Injury Association

CCS Disability Action

Deaf Aotearoa Northland

Down Syndrome Support Group

Epilepsy Northland

Huntington’s

Motor Neurone Disease

NorthAble

www.tiaho.org.nz/alzheimers 148 Corks Road, Tikipunga PO Box 1179, Whangarei Phone: (09) 438 7771 Fax: (09) 438 2974 northland@alzheimers.org.nz www.alzheimers.org.nz www.tiaho.org.nz/brain_injury 98 Cairnfield Road, Otangarei PO Box 4001, Kamo, Whangarei Phone: (09) 459 5013 Fax: (09) 437 0714 northland@mybrain.org.nz www.mybrain.org.nz

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

Multiple Sclerosis Northland 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/stroke 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

www.tiaho.org.nz/arthritis Suite 1, 1 James Street, Whangarei P O Box 74581 Greenlane, Auckland 1546 Freephone: 0800 663 463 www.arthritis.org.nz 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 www.tiaho.org.nz/epilepsy Suite 5, 71 Bank Street PO Box 712, Whangarei 0140 Phone: (09) 438 5498 Freephone: 0800EPILEPSY northland@epilepsy.org.nz www.epilepsy.org.nz www.tiaho.org.nz/mnda Yarnton House, 14 Erson Ave, Royal Oak, Auckland PO Box 24036, Auckland 1345 Phone: (09) 624 2148 Mobile: 021 036 0218 aklfieldwork@mnda.org.nz www.mnda.org.nz

Parent to Parent Northland www.tiaho.org.nz/parent2parent 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/blind_foundation 277 Kamo Road, Whangarei Phone: (09) 437 1199 Freephone: 0800 243 333 generalenquiries@blindfoundation.org.nz www.blindfoundation.org.nz www.tiaho.org.nz/deaf_aotearoa 1A Deveron Street PO Box 1834, Whangarei 0140 Phone: (09) 437 2022 Fax: (09) 437 2028 Mobile: 021 641 178 aklrception@deaf.org.nz www.deaf.org.nz 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 www.tiaho.org.nz/northable 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

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

2016

6

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

A WORD FROM JONNY WILKINSON CEO, Tiaho Trust

W

elcome everyone to the fifth edition of ‘Getting Out There’.

It hardly seems possible that five years ago we established a relationship with the Northern Advocate to produce this publication which has grown in popularity each year.

The theme of this year’s publication is Disability – Bridging the Generation Gap. Disability not only occurs in all ages but it can be a positive focal point for groups of people whether it be organisations, families and whanau or communities that are trying to achieve the same goal.

We all know how people have friends and families flock to 80th birthday parties or will pitch in when something happens to an individual causing an impairment. Disabled people of all ages tend to bring people together.

The experience we have when we are young is important to all of us, however when you are disabled it has particular importance. The experiences of growing up in a community and a level of support one gets and how you are included, shapes the impacts on your capacity to deal with challenges later on in life. Transition from school life to adulthood is a particularly important time for disabled youth. There will be information later in this publication to highlight the importance of transition and the roles support organisations play as well as the wider community, including businesses.

When I think about my youth and growing up with Cerebral Palsy, I remember how important first appearances were. I can imagine some of the readers feeling quizzical about this statement. But here are some unverified commonalities of people with my type of Cerebral Palsy particularly when they are young. Very slim (well skinny), very intelligent, very good looking, and very charismatic. I wrote this of course at the crusty age of 51 but in defence I want to introduce Rueben Leslie into the picture.

Rueben who is nine years old also has CP which both of us know really stands for “Cool People”. When I met Rueben a couple of years ago at a Tiaho “Surfs up Day”, he instantly reminded me of myself

Jonny Wilkinson CEO of Tiaho Trust with Rueben Leslie Photo of Jonny and Rueben taken by John Stone on 28 July

at that age. Veracious with a hunger for fun and realising what it takes to get people to like you in a very short period of time.

After being around Rueben for only a short time I realised that we both share a deep thirst for equality. This thirst drives us to want/demand to have a go at everything everyone else is doing. This is particularly important for young disabled people to have the expectation that it is their right to have access to the same experiences and opportunity that everyone else has. It is particularly important in education and socialisation when you are young. Rueben is in my office right now, so I asked him a few questions.

Jonny: Rueben what do you like doing the best outside of school?

Rueben: I like carving, I carve wood. I have carved a wave and a small chair.

Really, carving? How cool, I think when I was nine I would have said “playing Vikings” Jonny: Reuben what do you like best at school?

Rueben: I like maths

In fact Rueben has been at the top of his class in maths.

Jonny: Reuben what frustrates you at school?

Rueben: The keyboard that I had at school was too slow, it use to really annoy me, so now I have a voice operated one so when I talk it does it for me.

Good grief when I think back, my frustrations were long and varied, mainstreaming must have come a long way since then. Mind you by the time I was leaving Whangarei Boys High the biggest thing that frustrated me was the inequality of privileges the “First 15” had, obviously at that stage things weren’t too bad.

However now in my heightened aged hindsight, I think the most important thing for Reuben is access to education and employment. There are many services within this publication that can contribute to a great pathway of growing through the ages improving their quality for disabled people as they meet challenges along the way.

Jonny Wilkinson CEO Tiaho Trust

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

7

TIAHO PROFILE

T

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. This year we have been developing a training DVD that disabled trainer will be able to use to teach organisations how to deliver great customer service to disabled and older people.

Soon you will be able to view a TV series on Channel North called Sign High. We have produced these TV episodes to promote the use of NZ Sign Language in Northland with sign language lessons, interviews with local personalities and information on accessing critical services using NZSL. The episodes were produced from funding from the NZ Sign Language Fund.

Each year we host many events including the International Day of People with Disabilities celebrations, Expo, various youth events and are involved with hosting public consultation in regard to the new NZ 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’.

seminars that Tiaho Trust and the DIAS Collective hosts are publicized on our website: www.tiaho.org.nz and our Facebook page: Tiaho Trust – Empowering Communities.

You are welcome to create discussion around disability issues, and make comments on any articles posted.

This year is the local body 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.

Current news and information relating to disability, events and

Jonny and Rueben Leslie at work

DISABILITY RESPONSIVENESS TRAINING

M

aking a point of difference in business today is no easy task with constant changes in technology and demand. New Zealand’s aging population is no exception.

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.

The prevalence of impairments increases substantially by age, in fact 50% of people over the age of 65 have a disability of one kind or another. Northland older

population is rapidly increasing. This rise in demographics is being fuelled by the Auckland housing market, making Northland a desirable place to retire.

Businesses who provide excellent services to this age bracket will be doing very well in the short to mid-term.

Recognising the gap between our disabled community and services delivered and received, Tiaho has developed workshops to lead professional development of not-for-profit, health and disability and educational organisations to improve awareness and interaction of front line staff with clients of all abilities. These workshops can be tailored to owners,

managers and staff of commercial businesses throughout Northland.

Ground Floor, 3-5 Hunt Street Tai Tokerau Building PO Box 374, Whangarei Ph: 09 430 3406 Freephone: 0800 430 3406 Fax: 09 438 1679 Email: info@tiaho.org.nz Website: www.tiaho.org.nz Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ TiahoTrustEmpoweringCommunities

2016

8

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

ALZHEIMERS

A

lzheimers Northland will soon celebrate its 25th year of providing free services to Northlanders.

From our humble beginnings in 1992 working out of the Old Town Hall building, we now have a purpose-built facility on Corks Road, Tikipunga, and we have organised additional permanent offices in Kaitaia and Kerikeri. We now operate day respite programs in Paihia and Waipu as well. We have come a long way, and the increasing demand for what we offer signals that Alzheimers Northland is really ‘getting out there’.

The demand for our services is increasing in line with our aging population, but with the generous and sustained support from our District Health Board (DHB), we seem to be keeping pace with Northlanders’ increasing need for our services. Our DHB has also been very proactive in looking at how it delivers services to people with dementia and their carers, and our DHB contacts are continually dialoguing with us on ways to improve what we can do to help. There is always plenty to do, but success in delivering services that Northlanders want always starts with willingness to do the right thing.

Alzheimers Northland initiatives are focused on supporting carers as well as patients.

To help support carers, we have planned a series of training days throughout the year. These training days will be facilitated by recently retired staff member Anne Wilson. She has many years’ experience helping families with loved ones suffering from dementia. The training will cover many pertinent topics, such as defining dementia, carer stress, the importance of taking regular carer breaks and how to overcome social isolation, just to name a few.

Funding continues to be an issue for Alzheimers Northland, but our situation is no different from any other not-for-profit

organisation, so we carry on delivering our services with what funding we do have.

We get amazing support from regional and national funders as well as individual locals who buy raffles, attend movie nights and come to monthly dinners. All these contributors support us to the best of their abilities.

Our monthly dinners have proved to be very popular with dementia patients and their families: the popular ‘First Friday’ dinner is held at our Corks Road building in Tikipunga and gives people with dementia and their families an opportunity to enjoy a meal in a safe and familiar environment.

We will continue to run these events for as long as people keep turning up. By turning up and enjoying themselves, they give us the positive feedback we need to see that we are providing the care that Northlanders need.

Awareness is a real focus for us, especially during the month of September, when World Alzheimers Day is recognised. I hope you will see one of our many advertisements promoting our free services to the public.

One of the key events to raise awareness this year will be our annual Memory Walk, held in three locations on Sunday 18th September starting at 12 noon: • The Whangarei walk will kick off in the Town Basin and will follow the Hatea Loop; • Dargaville walkers will leave from outside Countdown; and • Kerikeri memory walkers will proceed from the Domain.

These short walks are family oriented, and they are not fundraisers per se. Rather, the Memory Walks are an opportunity to raise awareness and to show your support for somebody you may know with dementia.

Alzheimers New Zealand is hosting the 19th Asia Pacific ‘Dementia Today: Diverse Communities, Collective Action’ conference in Wellington for three days, from 3-5 November 2016. This annual event is where future directions in research and caregiving are discussed. It is also a gathering for people whose lives have been affected by dementia, where they can network and find more support in a safe environment. I am proud to announce that the registration fee has been waived for people with dementia and their carers, signalling our national commitment to a ‘dementia-friendly New Zealand’.

So many free health services are an essential part of helping our local communities ‘make the most out of living’.

At Alzheimers Northland, we are committed to giving our best to all people faced with the prospect of dealing with dementia. We believe that our 25 years’ experience has taught us a lot about what support services Northland families need to help them to continue living, working and caring for loved ones. We are committed to improving how we help as we grow and learn together with Northlanders in need. Dementia isn’t just about one or two people — it’s about whole communities. Let’s ‘get out there’ and celebrate what we can achieve when we work together and support one another!

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

9

MARIA’S STORY

T

hough this role as Community Advisor for Alzheimer’s Northland is new to me, I eyed it up for over five years after moving home to Kerikeri to help look after my parents who were living at home, both with dementia. I was 33 when Dad suffered a large stroke leaving him with vascular dementia and visual agnosia. This was not the game plan at all; he was supposed to look after Mum who was slowly developing dementia. My sister and I thought this was the end of our freedom and careers; now we had to take on the carers role. Little did I know it would fuel my interest and passion to work with people and families with dementia. A friend recently said, “you were able to make lemonade out of the lemony cards you were dealt”.

My background, in conservation, included killing possums and planting grasses on the sand dunes in Auckland and the Bay of Plenty. A far cry from elderly people and dementia. But I’ve come to realise that you just have to do it, regardless of how hard it may seem. I have worked as a Diversional Therapist at the rest home where Mum and Dad live, and I still work at the local high school with the Special Needs kids.

My first experience of Alzheimer’s Northland was over 7 years ago, seeking help on how to deal with the repetitive questions, and seeming loss of logic and reasoning from both Mum and Dad. Our Community Advisor was essential in helping us gain

understanding of dementia, what NASC meant; the support systems – Carer Support meetings, Rainbow Group. Meeting other carers in the same boat was really important, it made me stop feeling sorry for myself, realising there were people worse-off than us.

I volunteered for Alzheimer’s Northland during this time, which cemented my passion for working with families who have someone with dementia still at home. In my personal experience the carer of someone with dementia needs more recognition, support and praise for what is an incredibly hard journey at times. They need to be kinder to themselves and pat themselves on the back more often for the amazing job they do. If the carer is looked after, supported, has time out and is able to participate in their enjoyed pursuits, then I believe the person with dementia is generally happier and more content. Less stress = more contentment.

One book was my light-bulb moment: “Contented Dementia” by Oliver James.

After all my reading and research, I still highly recommend this book as an excellent resource to help develop strategies to cope with dementia. My journey through dementia with my parents has given me invaluable skills, experience and understanding of dementia and what families go through. Dad always told us that we should learn to walk in the other person’s shoes to understand what they’re going through; he was right on this one!

I recognise the grief process families go through from the day of diagnosis. I often think I’ve mastered it, only to have feelings come up at the most inopportune times. At the beginning I especially struggled with my changing role; I definitely didn’t want to be the adult making the hard decisions. I constantly struggled with anxiety and stress, learning the hard way of accepting their reality and not mine. I found myself yelling at the orange trees down the garden in an attempt to regain my sanity and calm! And losing my cool - that always provided me with the biggest guilt trip, until one day my husband asked me “are you perfect?” To which of course I replied “no”.

We are only human and we can only do the best we can with what we have.

Mum (83) and Dad (92) are now in a rest home, well cared for and my job as a carer is now to provide the love, security and family they need. They still know who I am and we are still able to have some laughs.

WESTECH

AUTOMOTIVE Proudly supporting Alzheimers Northland All Automotive Computerised Systems European Specialists

Robert Street, Whangarei

Ph 459 6670 www.westechautomotive.co.nz

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

10

W

ell that’s a reality for children as young as two years old when they are diagnosed with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA).

Often parents are confronted with swollen fingers, knees and toes. At first an allergic reaction is considered the culprit. But tests then confirm arthritis. Parents are usually stunned and consider getting a second opinion. “That simply can’t be right; arthritis is a disease of the elderly!”

It is a heartbreaking shock for parents to learn that their bright young child is in so much pain. Usually all milestones have been met, where did this come from and they had no idea children got art rthritis! t

OUR YOUTH

MATTER

Thankfully, both support and medication are available.

JIA affects around 1 in 1000 children under the age of 16 in New Zealand, and the cause is unknown. Children with JIA experience inflammation and stiffness in the joints, acute pain, fatigue and weakness in muscles leading to loss of mobility. Along with the pain, a sense of extreme frustration is felt by children with JIA as it can hinder development and normal physical activity. On most days they look perfectly normal, which sometimes leads to bullying at school when they are excused from PE or other activities.

Arthritis New Zealand works to support families by way of an annual camp which lets kids and their parents see that they

We host an Annual Camp for children who are newly diagnosed, a youth leaders training weekend where young people are given training on how to manage their condition, how to deal with bullying and keeping their dreams. We also have Ambassadors who are happy to support these young people and let them know life goes on positively.

Contact Details: ARTHRITIS NEW ZEALAND Suite 1, 1 James Street Freephone: 0800 663 463 Email: sue.baker@arthritis.org.nz Website: www.arthritis.org.nz

are not the only ones with this condition and gives them advice on managing their condition to ensure they will experience an active and enjoyable life.

Some are confronted with weekly injections and the constant fear that the medication may cease to work or that when the medication is weaned offfff it will flare up once again.

The online support network provided by Arthritis New Zealand has been especially useful in preparing them for any challenging situations, as they can ask our Arthritis Educators questions and find support by talking to others.

It is comfort rting t for families to know that they are not alone.

K

ayleigh is a wonderful 9 year old , typical for her age; she loves to play hockey, hang out with her friends, go camping and just chill on the beach with her dogs. She dreams one day of becoming a Black Stick or a dentist.

But Kayleigh is one of the 1,000 children and young people who have Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). That means missing school for frequent hospital visits, ongoing medication to treat her sore eyes and jaw, and swollen knees. Sometimes the pain and swelling are so bad she needs the fluid in her joints drained and have a steroid injjection.

Children don’t get arthritis do they?

Sometimes ch hildren diagnosed with arthritis have to give up their dreams for a little while e. For Kayleigh it was cheerleading as it was placing too much strain on n her knees. But the right support and treatment often dreams can be e achieved.

Despite the changes in her life Kaleigh tries too keep upbeat. She has great support from her friends and given these challenges with JIA she always has a bright smile.

Physical activity such as crawling, walking, climbing and playing can be riddled with pain and a huge source of frustration.

Many children develop pain in their joints at an early age and parents wonder what it is that is holding back their development. The diagnosis of arthritis comes as a huge surprise.

10 years ago Nicole had returned to her family home in Whangarei. She woke one morning in pain and day by day the pain got worse. Finally her mother took her off to the Doctor when walking became difficult.

Nicole was diagnosed with fibromyalgia and a year later an additional diagnosis of lupus.

Fibromyalgia is a syndrome because it is a collection of symptoms such as muscular pain, stiffness and fatigue, rather than a disease. Women are more likely to develop this than men.

Lupus is an autoimmune disease and can affect joints, muscles and even the skin.

Of course one of these conditions alone is a challenge; two brings different methods of managing the affects.

Nicole continues to be positive and is delighted that she has been in remission for 18 months and is now expecting a baby. She has gone back onto her medication to ensure she doesn’t suffer a ‘flare’ during her pregnancy and she is hoping that her remission lasts.

Nicole has been a volunteer in the Whangarei office of Arthritis New Zealand for many years, and is able to bring a ‘real life’ experience to those she meets.

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

Kayleigh attended the Arthritis New Zealand annual camp. This camp is for children with arthritis and a parent to attend over a weekend, kids who thought they were alone with their pain suddenly find they have a large community of new friends who understand and feel the same pain.

11

2016

12

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

BLIND FOUNDATION: LIVE LIFE WITHOUT LIMITS

I

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

More than 12,00 00 people nation-wide receive services and support from the Blind Foundation n, with more people registering every day. Our dedicated and expert staff fff work with all ages from children to elderlyy people, on a one-to-one basis to fully und derstand their individual needs. From thiss point, we provide the services and sup pport which will be the most beneficial fo or each person.

Services are free of charge and help people rega ain or maintain their independence – to be self-reliant and live the life they choo ose.

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

We teach people e how to use adaptive technology so th hey can keep in touch and up-to-date with the world. Teaching smartphone, tab blet and computer techniques are all part of what’ss on offe fer.

We also show people how to get around their community. Some people like to have a guide dog, while many use a cane.

If people wish to find or keep a job, or begin studying, our employment service can help. The Blind Foundation off ffers f 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 serv rvice v ranges from book clubs to tramps and bike rides, both locally and nationally. We offffer f a range of difffferent f 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.

We firmly believe in the beneficial nature of social interaction, so also we provide recreation and peer support.

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

OUR YOUTH

MATTER

After school programmes Life enrichment skills eg. cooking, gardening, sport and recreation Self motivation classes Social outings and events.

Contact Details: 277 Kamo Road, Whangarei Phone: 09 437 1199 Freephone: 0800 243 333 generalenquiries@blingfoundation. org.nz www.blingfoundation.org.nz

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

13

YOUNG PEOPLE HAVING FUN

W

hat started as a gardening group for young people with sight loss has branched out into a range of activities. The Blind Foundation gardening group in Whangarei still looks after the gardens that were planted behind the Blind Foundation office when the group was formed last year, but the members are also taking on new challenges.

Independent Life Skills Specialist Jo Kersey, who coordinates the monthly group meetings with Lesley Cleary and Craig Jessop, says the group has tried blind cricket, goalball and pottery classes.

“We always think about ways we can keep them on a learning curve, where they get to participate and help each other out.”

friends, including her fellow group members Nicole Kelsy Shortridge, Kyren Andrew and Jeffrey Barnett.

One group member came up with the idea of making a bacon hock and vegetable soup using the kinds of vegetables grown in the group’s gardens, so they used a pressure cooker to make it in one session.

“I like learning to do different things, like gardening and cooking. Trying out different activities has also given me a lot more confidence”, says Charlotte.

Charlotte Maaka has been a member of the group since last year and says she has learned new skills and made lots of new

Future activities include doing the entire Whangarei Town Basin Loop Walkway, and trying out the recreational equipment.

“The group has continued because the kids who come, want to keep coming. Socially this is really important to them.”

Craig, who is both a Blind Foundation employee and member, says a trip to the Tiritiri Matangi Island Wildlife Sanctuary was one of the highlights for the group so far.

They have also visited the Whangarei Native Bird Recovery Centre, where the youngsters were able to touch birds like kiwi and hawks and visited Craig’s property to learn more gardening skills, like mulching. Craig went on to say: “It started off as a gardening group, but it’s become more of a life skills enrichment group for the kids. We tend to let them make the decisions, rather than us. We run it according to what their wants and needs are.

PEACE OF MIND FOR A JOB DONE WELL ...

YOUR 100% GUARANTEE COMMERCIAL: Office Cleaning, Schools, Childcare, Vinyl Floor Stripping & Polishing, Windows, Carpet Cleaning, Concrete & Tile Cleaning, Waterblasting RESIDENTIAL: Windows, Spring Cleaning, Water Blasting, Carpet Cleaning, House Washing, Rental Properties, Ceilings & Walls

Proudly Kiwi Owned & Operated www.northlandcleaning.co.nz

437 7354 027 473 2520

admin@northlandcleaning.co.nz

Karabiner Cleaning Services

2016

14

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

CCS DISABILITY ACTION About Us Mo¯ M¯atou

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 disabled people’s rights are upheld.

What is Transition? He Aha R a¯ te Whanaketanga?

Thinking about what’s next after high school can be an exciting, but daunting, time for many families. This can feel more challenging when your child needs additional support to work towards their goals. Like many teenagers, they might not even know exactly what their goals are yet!

Our Transition service supports young people who are between 16 and 21 years old and are thinking about leaving school in the next year or two years. Our aim is to support your child and your family to plan for a good life after high school. Together we can help you take the steps needed to create a meaningful and more independent life in the community.

What’s Different About Us? He Aha M a¯ tou I Rerek e¯ Ai?

We’re not about fitting people into existing services. Instead we offer one-on-one support. A young person’s skills, interests and aspirations guide the work we do.

• We have access to a range of youthbased events and programmes that your child can choose to suit their interests.

We also have established community

OUR

YOUTH

MATTER

networks to connect young people with opportunities that best suit them.

• Our experienced team can offer friendly mentorship and guidance to build young people’s confidence and knowledge.

• Because our service takes a holistic approach, we’re not afraid to think outside the box to support young people to achieve great outcomes.

Contact Details: CCS Disability Action Northland (09) 437 0800 or 0800 227 2255 Northland@ccsDisabilityAction.org.nz

We’re not about fitting people into existing services. Instead we offer one-on-one support, guided by a young person’s skills, interests and aspirations.

• We offer a range of youth-based events and programmes to connect young people with opportunities that best suit them.

• Our team can also offer mentorship to build young people’s confidence and skills.

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

15

ALEESHA’S FLAIR FOR FOOD

A

t just 20 years old, Aleesha KostyrkoJones has landed her dream job. We share the steps she took to get there and find out what’s next for this determined young woman.

Aleesha Kostyrko-Jones’s love of cooking started at a young age.

“I have these fantastic, warm memories of being in the kitchen with my mum a lot as a kid.”

After taking cooking classes in High School, Aleesha discovered she had a real passion for it. “I love preparing, creating and making food and I realised what I wanted to do with my life – I wanted to be a chef.”

The Ruakaka resident’s family have played a huge part in creating Alessha’s strong sense of self belief. “Mum and Dad are fantastic at building my confidence. They thought I had real skill and talent in the kitchen and encouraged me to just go for it.”

Distinction Hotel and has been working there since. “I just love this job, and I love learning new things. I started in food prep before being moved to making desserts and cold entrees. This has now progressed to assisting with main courses.”

Just as others’ have supported Aleesha to get her where she is today, she is now keen to open doors for others. After taking a leadership role at a national youth-focused disability event, she has been employed as a co-facilitator for CCS Disability Action’s Whangarei Youth Group.

Aleesha is keen to see disabled youth thrive and succeed, as she has.

“I want to show other young people with disabilities that anything is possible. You just need the right support and confidence in your skills.”

Aleesha also received “awesome” support from CCS Disability Action, under the Transition service, to help her move from school to employment. Her Community Support Coordinator, Kevin Anderson, worked with Aleesha to make a step-bystep plan, such as completing a 19 week cooking course at NorthTec. In November 2014, Aleesha had an interview for a job as a part-time chef at

THE MOBILITY PARKING PERMIT SCHEME – connecting you with your community

The mobility parking permit • You have a medical condition scheme supports people with or disability that requires you mobility impairments to get out to have physical contact or close supervision to safely into their communities. get around and cannot be You are eligible if you meet the left unattended. following criteria: There are two types of permit: • You are unable to walk and always require the use of a • Long term (if you have a permanent medical condition wheelchair or or disability that affects your • Your ability to walk distances is mobility; valid for 5 years) severely restricted by a medical condition or disability or

You can get an application form and more information by visiting

www.MobilityParking.org.nz

• Short term (if you have a temporary medical condition that affects your mobility; issued for 3 – 12 months) How to apply for a mobility parking permit: You will need to complete an application form and pay the permit fee. Your doctor needs to confirm your eligibility.

or by phoning

0800 227 2255

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

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.

These 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 and other Deaf people.

Youth Service

Deaf Aotearoa’s Youth Service, including a Youth Intern Programme, engages with deaf youth to develop their potential as individuals and as a group, promoting positive Deaf identity and leadership in young deaf people.

YOUTH BREAKOUT

BUBBLE:

Deaf Aotearoa’s transition programme supports youth to move from school to employment, tertiary education or further training.

Hauora

Hauora works with Service Users to identify their specific needs and coordinate services to meet those needs. This includes a nationwide assessment service for people who need Hearing Assistive Technology.

Employment and Career Advancement

Employment and Career Advancement offers a specialist nationwide employment service for Deaf people to get into work or develop a career. This service also works to support and increase employers’ Deaf awareness.

interpreter services provided by more than 80 qualified interpreters.

New Zealand Sign Language Week

NZSL became an official language of New Zealand in 2006. The following year, Deaf Aotearoa held the first New Zealand Sign Language Week, to showcase and celebrate the language. Deaf Aotearoa has continued to organise NZSL Week every year since.

Education and Engagement

This is the main source of contact and information for the Deaf community and members of the general public. It includes education opportunities for Deaf people and the promotion of New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) and Deaf culture.

iSign

iSign is New Zealand’s only nation-wide New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) interpreter booking service. iSign receives job requests for NZSL interpreters and coordinates

Some of the 19 Deaf youth from around New Zealand who were on board a special Spirit of Adventure voyage held in April 2016 to mark the 10th anniversary of NZSL becoming an official language of New Zealand.

Contact Details: Deaf Aotearoa Northland www.tiaho.org.nz/deaf_aotearoa 1A Devron Street, Whangarei 0140 Phone: 09 437 2022 Fax: 09 437 2028 Mobile: 021 641 178 aklrception@deaf.org.nz www.deaf.org.nz

Deaf Aotearoa Facilitator Harri Harrison teaches a New Zealand Sign Language Taster Class at Whangarei Library during New Zealand Sign Language Week 2016.

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

17

ALANA'S STORY

A

lana Best is a well-known member of Northland’s Deaf community and believes the hard work and determination of older Deaf people has paved the way for Deaf youth to have more positive experiences.

Alana is the Northland New Zealand Sign Language Tutor for Kelston Deaf Education Centre. In her role, travelling around the region each week teaching NZSL to schools, children and their families, she has the opportunity to see first-hand the differences and similarities, between young and old in the Deaf community.

Alana is the only deaf person in her family and credits her mother with introducing her to the Deaf community. She says she’s learned a lot from the older generation and is proud of how Deaf people of all ages work well together to effect positive change. Deaf Aotearoa is one example of an early initiative which has developed into

an organisation that benefits Deaf people of all ages across New Zealand. And as a passionate teacher of NZSL, Alana believes in the power of language to bring all ages together.

At an early age Alana travelled with her family, went on Deaf Camps by herself and by taking small steps and learning from each experience built up the confidence to travel overseas by herself.

Alana says “I always do heaps of researching so I know where I am going and what to expect. It’s always harder for parents to let their Deaf teenagers travel so you need to show them you have done the planning and know what to do if things go wrong. You just have to learn to be confident and positive that everything will be fine.

Her travels include a trip to Fiji during the period of Military Coup control and going to Istanbul when the country was on the brink

Alana (right) with her mother Leah

of war with terrorists, very soon after she left, bombing occurred. She also mention her trip to Spain saying “On my first day in Madrid, Spain, I couldn’t find my hostel and asked a group of policemen to help even though they were useless, I found my hostel in the end. Then the organisation got me to go out to meet a newcomer leader at 4am in the morning! Athens had riots and protests and I still managed to have a beautiful holiday.”

Alana is also one of the two front presenters for a 15 episode TV series that will be viewed soon to promote NZSL in conjunction with Office of Disability Issues, Tiaho Trust and Channel North.

2016

18

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

EPILEPSY NZ – NORTHLAND BRANCH Epilepsy NZ: Keeping a Positive Mindset!

“

Epilepsy is easier to live with when you understand it. The first step is to pick up the phone and contact your local Epilepsy NZ educator who can offer support and advocate for you at school or in the workplace. Learn about epilepsy and how to manage seizures and live life to the full. Epilepsy doesn’t define who you are.

”

Margaret Dunn at Epilepsy Northland is the first port of call for many people diagnosed with Epilepsy. Her job is to help people of all ages understand epilepsy and get them hooked into services available to them, and she goes that extra mile to ensure people get the support they need and that is suited to them.

She emphasises that acceptance is paramount and Epilepsy Northland gives people support, guidance and encouragement to help them and their families accept their condition. Margaret helps people with Epilepsy develop a positive mindset and she stresses that Epilepsy is a condition that you can learn to manage effectively, but does not define who you are as a person.

This is a particularly important message for young people diagnosed with Epilepsy as there can still be stigma attached to the condition.

The next step is to get educated about Epilepsy and how to manage your condition. Margaret believes that it’s important to remember that you have a whole team of professionals, doctors, neurologists and Epilepsy Northland, working with you to assist you in managing your condition. Simply put – you are not alone.

Margaret emphasises the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and states that the more you do and the more you get out there, the better control you’ll have over your seizures.

She warns against the urge to isolate yourself. Young people diagnosed with Epilepsy often try to shut themselves away, fearing rejection from their peers if their condition becomes known. This causes stress, and stress is a big trigger of seizures.

Margaret Dunn Epilepsy Educator

Contact Details: Margaret Dunn, Epilepsy Educator Suite 5, 71 Bank Street, PO Box 712, Whangarei 0140 Phone: (09) 438 5498 Freephone: 0800 EPILEPSY Website: www.epilepsy.org.nz Email: northland@epilepsy.org.nz

Remember: 70% of people with Epilepsy can achieve seizure control.

Margaret says she really feels she has succeeded in helping someone when living with epilepsy is no longer interfering with their daily lives.

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

DON’T BE TOO PROUD TO ASK FOR HELP

J

ames Robertson has come a long way since he had his first seizure at age 16.

Like many young people diagnosed with Epilepsy, he initially struggled with accepting his condition, and didn’t take advantage of the help that was on offer to him at the time.

He preferred to act as if it wasn’t happening to him. He didn’t want to admit there was anything wrong, so he continued living his drinking and partying lifestyle, and as a result his health suffered.

It’s taken him a good 10 years to fully accept the fact that he has Epilepsy, and to make the effort to get his life and his seizures under control.

“I took 2 years off work to get my medication and lifestyle right,” It wasn’t easy for James, but he kept a positive attitude and focused on taking his medication regularly. As a result of dedicating this time to his health, James has been seizure free for 2 years!

The last hurdle for James is to get his drivers’ license. Now that he has been seizure free for so long,

he’s working towards getting back on the road, and is building up his confidence.

James’ advice to others with Epilepsy, particularly young people, is to take your medication regularly and get your rest. A heavy-drinking and partying lifestyle often triggers seizures and makes them more difficult to manage. “Accepting your condition is so important, and you don’t have to give up much,” James emphasizes the importance of focusing on the positives – look at what you can do, rather than what you can’t do.

James urges people to ask for help. “There are so many different avenues of help and support you can take advantage of. You’ve got your doctors, your neurologist, Margaret (Epilepsy Educator) and your family. You’re not alone.”

James is working with Northland Epilepsy as a volunteer in order to help other young people diagnosed with Epilepsy. If he can help just one person, he says, that would be wonderful.

UNDERSTANDING EPILEPSY SEMINARS AND SUPPORT GROUPS Attend a free information seminar and learn more about epilepsy or come along to a support group and meet others living with epilepsy

Kaitaia:

Seminars held at Far North REAP 33 Puckey Ave, Kaitaia 27 October 2016 - 10.00am to 12.00 noon

Whangarei: Seminars held at Citizens Advice Bureau Brenda Gardner Lounge 71 Bank Street, Whangarei 18 August 2016 and 17 November 2016 - 10.00am to 12.00 noon Support Groups held at Citizens Advice Bureau Brenda Gardner Lounge First Tuesday of each month – 10.30am to 12.00 noon (morning tea provided) 2 August, 6 September, 4 October, 1 November and 6 December 2016 In service epilepsy education available by arrangement RSVP and for more information please contact Margaret Dunn Epilepsy Educator on (09) 438-5498 or email northland@epilepsy.org.nz.

19

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

20

HUNTINGTON’S DISEASE ASSOCIATION

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.

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.

Family Liaison Service

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 Support Service service professionals and advocate for Our staff provides counselling and facilitates the development of new services; or they the process whereby people living with HD 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 For information on individually or in our Disability Working a group setting Parking Permit visit and by influencing www.wdc.govt.nz/ them to provide disabilityservices a complete The WDC Disability Advisory continuum of care Group meets monthly to for HD families. share experiences and advise

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.

DISABILITY SERVICES

Council on the interests and needs of the disability sector in Whangarei. The group supports Council’s commitment to enhance the accessibility and safety of its amenities for people of all ages.

For further information please contact our Community Services Adviser on 4304230 ext 8830 or carlaj@wdc.govt.nz

For any concerns regarding safety in the community please call CitySafe on 0800 258258 or email report@citysafe.co.nz.

For emergencies dial 111.

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 (HD) is an inherited brain disorder. It causes cells in specific parts of the brain to die; the Caudate, the Putamen and as the disease progresses, the Cerebral Cortex. As the brain cells die, a person with Huntington’s becomes less able to control movements, recall events, make decisions and control emotions. The disease leads to incapacitation and, eventually, death.

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 Email: huntingtonsakld@xtra.co.nz Web: www.hdauckland.org.nz

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

21

MOTOR NEURONE DISEASE ASSOCIATION

T

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 Fieldworker 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 We rely on grants and fundraising and welcome donations so that we can offer our services FREE of charge.

In the Whangarei and Northland area there are generally around 10-20 people living with MND. There are estimated to be 300 people in New Zealand at any one time.

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.

• Becoming increasingly dependent • Remaining positive in the face of so many changes Please contact Linda Oliver the MND Fieldworker for the Northland area to find out more.

Several famous people have had MND such as David Niven (Actor), Jarrod Cunningham (NZ rugby player) and Stephen Hawking (British Theoretical Physicist).

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.

People living with MND face many challenges but much can be done to support them in: • Living with a progressive condition • Adjusting to changes in their ability to move, speak, swallow, breathe

Contact Details: Motor Neurone Disease Association Yarnton House, 14 Erson Avenue, Royal Oak, Auckland PO Box 24036, Auckland 1345 Phone: (09) 624 2148 Mobile: 021 036 0218 Email: aklfieldwork@mnda.org.nz www.mnda.org.nz www.facebook.com/mndanz

Linda Oliver of the MND Association

Doug the Digger loves working in the community assisting people with disabilities

Doug the Digger

www.dougthedigger.co.nz

2016

22

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

NORTHLAND MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

N

• Loss of balance or coordination.

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.

• Advocacy for you with other support agencies and health professionals and informs you of services available in the community.

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:

• Support groups for those with MS in Whangarei, Kaikohe/Kerikeri and Dargaville.

• Free Yoga classes held weekly in Bank Street, Whangarei.

• Problems with thinking and remembering.

• A MS Field Officer/Educator who is a NZ Registered Nurse.

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

• Sexual problems.

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

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.

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

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

• Education material, books, videos, CD’s etc from the MS office.

• 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 prevents the flow of messages from the brain and the spinal cord to other parts of the body.

The distortions 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 varying combinations or severity):

• 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.

• Fatigue.

What Causes MS?

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.

Contact Details: Northland MS Society Phone (09) 438 3945 or Email: nthlndms@xtra.co.nz Field Officer Cell phone: 027 539 9883

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

23

CHELSEA HORSFORD

C

helsea Horsford was twenty-one when she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. How has MS altered her life and how has she coped with such a diagnosis?

Chelsea comes from a large farming family.

She has two brothers and three sisters and she lives at home with her parents, helping out on the farm when she can.

When her feet went numb the first time and her jandals fell off her feet she knew something was wrong. Her doctor is a family friend and so when Chelsea went to get the results of her medical tests she knew something was amiss by the look on her doctor’s face. Chelsea thought she might have cancer but when she was told she had Multiple Sclerosis she just said: “What’s that?”

She learned from her specialist that she had a neurological disease that she would have for her entire life; when you are only twenty-one that must have felt like a huge blow. She subsequently attended Brain Day where she found information on MS and also discovered that there was a Northland MS Society, which she then joined. So far her MS episodes have been short-lived but she finds it scary when parts of her body go numb and sometimes fatigue stops her from going outside. While Chelsea has tried prescription medications, they have had side effects so she is

searching for any other medication that may help.

Chelsea received a scholarship last year through MSNZ (Dorothy Newman Scholarship) for $1500 and will finish her librarian qualification this year.

She hopes to use her skills working with children to help improve their reading and literacy levels. Chelsea is currently applying for jobs in this area and hopes to find employment in Hamilton, where she has family including an older sister who has now also been diagnosed with MS. When asked what she thought could help to improve life for people with MS she felt

Chelsea with her mother Karen

New World are proud supporters of “Getting Out There 2016”.

there should be more public awareness of the disease and less problems with trying to obtain insurance because of that annoying ‘pre-existing medical condition’ clause on policies.

Her advice to any newly diagnosed person would be to research the basics of the disease and make sure you have one good sentence prepared that helps you to explain the condition. If people want to know more they will ask and you can then provide more details.

For information on MS contact the Northland MS Society; phone 09 438 3945 or email nthlndms@xtra.co.nz

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

24

DISCOVER LEARNING FOR ALL AGES AT BLOMFIELD!

F

rom the scampering of little feet outside my office, to the self-assured walk of a young adult to the front of the Graduation Assembly at the end of each year, the sound of learning envelopes me at Blomfield. Here learning is active, real, and engaging no matter the age of the student.

Haere Mai, welcome to the Blomfield world of learning. I’m sure you know that our students can start school with us at five years old. But did you also know that students can remain on our roll until the year after their 21st Birthday?

Students must be verified under the Ongoing Resourcing Scheme (ORS) to attend our School, which is for students with significant additional learning needs.

(Contact your Local Ministry of Education for more information on ORS verification).

There are pathways for personalised learning at any age or stage between 5 and 21 at Blomfield School. Here’s a summary how these work:

For Littlies

Four year olds who may have a significant learning disability will most likely be known to the local Ministry of Education –Special Education Office. They could be receiving support from the Ministry at an Early Education Centre. As parents start to consider schooling options they generally will visit their local school and also Blomfield Special School. To arrange a visit simply call our super friendly office team.

If you, Blomfield School and the Minstry agree that Blomfield is the right option for your child we will together organise

Get a beautiful responsive website created by us and we SO\\ RVWYTP NQXX TV U\V[ZP\R Special School!

Offer ends 30th of September 2016.

ARE you ready to t o GGet e t discovered with a website w e b si by printing.com ARE you ready to Get discovered with a website by printing.com Let’s Talk

Let’s Talk ad y AR E yo u reov er ed sc to Ge t di bs it e by we wi th a om pr in ti ng .c lk

Let’s Ta

Contact us to find out MORE P 09 972 7350 E brya.page@printing.com www.pdccreative.co.nz

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP transition visits into school. We make booklets for school and home to help your child adjust to their new learning environment. A good time to get in touch is about 6 months before they start school.

We have three options for new entrants at Blomfield.

1. Manuka, New Entrants class at Base School.

2. Room 5, Morningside School Blomfield Satellite class.

3. Room 6, Morningside School Blomfield Satellite Class for students with mobility challenges.

In the Middle

Often students with additional needs have been settled and learning in a mainstream setting but as they grow older it becomes clear that the educational situation is no longer working well for them. This can be a time when Blomfield is approached to see what opportunities we have to offer.

For Upper Primary, Intermediate and Junior Secondary Students we have the following options: 1. Manaia View Satellite Classes 12, 13 and 14.

2. Base Classes, Rata and Rimu.

3. Kowhai Class at Base School for older students with mobility challenges.

Upper Secondary

Transition Programmes for students aged 16 to 21 years are run at our purpose built Transition Facility located at our Base site. Here in addition to all the usual Curriculum areas, students enjoy preparing for life beyond school by getting involved in: – – – – – – –

Work Placements Hard Technology Cooking Fitness Sports and Leisure Art Personal and Communication skill development – SPEC (accredited qualification programme)

Kaitaia

For our Far North Students we have a Primary and a Secondary Option.

1. Rooms 16 and 17 at Kaitaia Primary School.

Blomfield is a truly multi-generational school setting. If we can provide a young person with part of their educational pathway to successful adult life, we feel privileged to do so.

2. Te Puna Aroha at Kaitaia College for secondary students up to age 21.

Sally Wilkinson Principal

Contact Details: Phone: 094382105 Email: administration@blomfield.school.nz

25

2016

26

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

NORTHABLE DISABILITY SERVICES

NorthAble Disability Services

NorthAble is a not-for-profit community organisation and Northland’s largest disability resource centre, established in 1990.

With an office in Whangarei, a mobile service, and NorthAble Link Centres in Dargaville, Kaeo, Maungaturoto, Kaitaia and Pukenui; NorthAble provides disability support and information in all Te Tai Tokerau.

NorthAble provides support for living through: NASC Needs Assessment Service Co-ordination 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

OUR

What NorthAble does for disaabled youth: MATTER Support for living Assist to participate more fully in the community Help to access employment Together make a plan to achieve goals Offers free, friendly, independent information Sells and hires out a range of disability products, equipment and aids to daily living YOUTH

• Attendance at MoH 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 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!

LYNKZ Vocational and community participation programme for 16-64 year olds including: • Cooking classes - how to cook every day meals, healthy choices, supermarket budgeting • Community - support participants to plan activities or attend events of their choice • Work - help with CVs and interview skills and work experience • Life skills - from budgeting to catching a bus

Other services include:

Equipment Plus has a wide range of Rehab, Age Care and Disability products, equipment and aids for 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 service circulating Northland, Agency Outlets in Dargaville and Kaitaia and online shopping via our website.

NorthAble DIAS provides a friendly, independent disability information and advice service free to disabled people, families, whanau, aiga, caregivers, providers and the general public.

Contact Details: NorthAble, 40 John St, Whangarei 0110 Call 0508 637-200 or 09 430 0988 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.

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

27

ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY DYLAN *

D

ylan Smith at 22 years old is one of the younger members of a group of disabled people who are helping to reduce waste and protect the environment.

He recently left school and is now part of the LYNKZ community participation and vocational support day programme, based in Whangarei, mixing and learning from others between 18 – 64 years of age.

When he was a boy, Dylan was given a torch that needed a screwdriver to undo the battery cover. His Mum lent him a screwdriver to do the job, and Dylan’s love of undoing things developed from there.

LYNKZ offers a range of activities from cooking, art, to work and lifeskills but it is the recycling events that Dylan particularly looks forward to. Each month Dylan eagerly awaits the arrival of the EcoSolutions van to

the LYNKZ HQ and it’s cargo of discarded electronics for dismantling. Largely nonverbal, Dylan’s grin speaks volumes as he goes outside to help unload.

the screwdriver as needs be. Supervisor Anton Bowker who is the EcoSolutions Educator gives practical advice and environmental tips to Dylan and the others.

Dylan comes from the rural area of Hikurangi and from a line of practical, capable people with his Dad and two brothers being firefighters. Dylan has proven to be a dab hand with the screwdriver and takes apart computers, telephones, stereos and DVD players, putting the component parts into different recycling boxes. The parts will be reused to make new products; decreasing the negative environmental impacts of electronic goods we use every day and helps keep electronic waste out of our landfills.

In addition to these workshops Dylan and other 20 LYNKZ members have taken action to reduce waste, going on beach clean-ups and urban trash scavenger hunts. Members reuse their found objects, making art works for a public exhibition.

Dylan’s a very sociable young man who likes being around people. He is also a big movie fan and enjoys concerts, anything from Boney M to the Wiggles.

Pete Greenhalgh is Dylan’s one-on-one support worker, who provides a steadying hand on the object being dismantled or an extra twist on

*This article is in remembrance of Dylan Smith, 1994-2016 who epitomised the spirit of getting out there and making the most of what life has to offer. During his short time with us, Dylan gifted love to people of all generations. His joy in living brushed off on older people as they passed on their skills and knowledge to him.

NORTHLAND SUPPLIERS OF REHAB, AGED CARE, DISABILITY MOBILITY EQUIPMENT AND DAILY LIVING AIDS FOR SALE AND HIRE

• ADJUSTABLE BEDS • LIFT CHAIRS • SCOOTERS • WALKERS/WHEELCHAIRS CRUTCHES • BATHROOM/TOILET EQUIPMENT • KITCHEN AIDS • DAILY LIVING AIDS • CONTINENCE

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)

NORTHABLE EQ+ AGENCIES DARGAVILLE AGENCY: Greenways Trust 16 Edward Street, Dargaville, 09 439 8133 KAITAIA AGENCY: Far North Pharmacy, 53 Commerce Street, Kaitaia, 09 408 0851

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

28

PARENT TO PARENT,

ALTOGETHER AUTISM NORTHLAND

P

arent to Parent and Altogether Autism is a not for profit organization offering support to families dealing with a child with a disability, disorder or health impairment.

Regional Coordinator Lynne Hansen speaks about the year that’s been and taking on the role since June 2014.

Since June 2014 a lot has happened with the branch operating fully again and offering support to many parents with information packs on Autism, disabilities, disorders and health impairments.

Several courses were run, one being the personal support course called ‘Renew’ which focuses on giving parents tools and advice on how to cope with the issues surrounding having a child with a disability or disorder. Other courses include Advocacy Support and Individual Education Plan. There are also local coffee groups and family events held throughout the year. Altogether Autism is very active in Northland and several Altogether Autism network meetings were held. ‘PRISM’ has also been running to support professionals working with children and whanau with Autism.

OUR

YOUTH

MATTER

Information packs on Autism, disabilities, disorders and health impairments Outings and social events for siblings aged 8 to 18 years

Parent to Parent also recognizes that it isn’t easy for siblings dealing with the issues that surround having a brother or a sister with a disability, health impairment or a disorder such as Autism, the sibling support program offers children a day where they can network with other children in a similar situation whilst giving them a day of fun activities a day to remember and look forward to on the calendar. We are grateful for the support from local businesses such as Hansen Products and Whangarei Lions Club pledging their support for which Lynne says she is extremely grateful.

SERVICES INCLUDE: Local Information: Face to face support, services and news on local events, workshops and programs within Northland.

Matching: Support parents are parents who are also caring for a loved one with special needs, putting them in the unique position of being able to understand the highs and lows of caring for a child with additional needs.

Contact Details: Lynne Hansen - Regional Coordinator 291 Kamo Road PO Box 4295 Whangarei Phone: 09 437 3337 Freephone: 0508 236 236 Email: northland@parent2parent.org.nz Web: www.parent2parent.org.nz Facebook: https://www.facebook. com/parenttoparentnorthland/

Individualised Information: On all disabilities, health conditions and disorders, the information can be very basic such as What is Autism? Or more personalized such as what therapies are there for a seven year old who has Cerebral Palsy.

Sibling Support: Designed to support and provide an experience that will help siblings cope with the challenges of living with a brother or sister who has a disability.

Altogether Autism: Provides evidence based information on Autism that is personalised to families, professionals and individuals with Autism.

Also provide professional development training (PRISM) for professionals working with children or whanau with Autism.

Regional Coordinator Lynne Hansen

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

WICKENS FAMILY PROFILE

M

y name is Krystina Wickens. My husband Richard and I are proud parents of three gorgeous autistic children, Christian, Tara and Aidan.

Our life has been one of continued learning, adaption and most importantly, acceptance of who we all are as individuals. We sum up the adage “If you’ve met one person with autism, you have only met one person with autism”.

Parent to Parent has been a fantastic, encouraging organisation that have provided plenty of advice and information regarding services and information on Autism and related issues and support groups available.

I am now part of a network of like-minded

parents who accept our children for who they are and support and assist them to use their strengths to enable them to be comfortable with their neurology and achieve full potential as valuable members of our society.

Each child has his or her own very distinct personality, strengths, areas of interest, method of communication and social ability.

As a family our greatest challenge has been finding activities we can enjoy as a whole, where the overall sensory experience which may be enjoyed by one, may be completely intolerable for another.

Our children have taught Richard and I so much. We are now aware of many details the brain filters out. Despite facing many obstacles, we have met many accepting, accommodating and understanding individuals. Sadly we have also encountered many that did not want to celebrate the wonderful differences in our children and this continues to be an ongoing challenge for us, but we choose to focus on the positive.

PARENT TO PARENT Empowering families and whanau with autism, disabilities and health impairments through support and information • Connecting families & whanau • Individualised information • Training workshops • Sibling support programme • Advocacy TOLL FREE 0508 236 236 www.parent2parent.org.nz

29

2016

30

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

PARKINSONS

P

arkinsons Disease derives its name from Dr. James Parkinson, who discovered the condition in the late 18th century. Although it remains a disease with no cure, its management has been improved by modern technologies to enable Parkinsonians to lead useful and sustaining lives. One of the greatest aids is physical exercise, and Parkinsons Northland Division provides a range of activities throughout the North – in Whangarei, weekly walking group, physical exercises, hydrotherapy, physiotherapy, voice exercises, Pilates.

In Kerikeri, hydrotherapy and tai chi. At Coopers Beach, tai chi.

Support Groups with monthly meetings are held in Whangarei, Waipu and Kerikeri, bimonthly at Dargaville and Kaitaia, all having a range of activities both educational and social in nature.

The Division’s area extends from Te Hana to North Cape, and two qualified Educators 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 includes Dargaville, Maunu and Whangarei south from junction of SH14 and Maunu Road, and districts south to Te Hana.

Contacts: Co-Ordinator – Trisha Ryan Phone: 09-4376878 email 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 ph. 09 4376881 e-mail educator.northlandsouth@parkinsonsorg.nz

OUR

YOUTH

MATTER

Whangarei Walking Group – Margaret Page – Phone: 09 435 6239 Pilates – Sarah Pratt – 021 262 0079 Carers’ Only Groups – Elizabeth Swift Phone: 09 4360691 email elizabethswift@gmail.com

Contact Details: Upbeat - Lorraine Kokich Phone: 09 434 6874

Parkinsons Disease rarely affects young people but it does happen and there is a special group that caters for clients under the age of 60 years to support them in their daily life. There are evening meetings with educational sessions by guest speakers, and weekend social activities. Members are encouraged to participate in annual Outward Bound events, especially organised for Parkinsonians.

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

31

FINDING A WAY THROUGH WITH PARKINSON’S

Raewyn’s story – stay upbeat and keep laughing!

In 2002, Raewyn Ackers began noticing problems with her ability to walk and with the function of her arm. Her GP promptly sent her off for tests in Auckland where she was immediately told that she had Parkinson’s. Being a positive person and not one to dwell too much on the negatives, Raewyn reached out for help, and made a call to the Northland Parkinson’s Society.

All it took was a phone call.

The support she has received from this organisation has been invaluable, offering a range of services to her and others with Parkinson’s. Raewyn stresses the importance of getting out there and staying involved with family, friends, and the community at large.

Inclusive Workplace

Raewyn’s work environment also provided a real source of strength as her symptoms became more noticeable. Co-workers and regular customers alike would help wherever they could if Raewyn’s symptoms began impacting on her day to day work.

As a result of the supportive environment her co-workers created, Raewyn was able to continue working for 11 years.

Deep Brain Stimulation Treatment

A diagnosis with Parkinson’s can seem like the end of the world. But with treatments such as Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS, there is hope. While DBS is not a cure, it does delay

symptoms, and can return quality of life to some Parkinson’s patients. As Raewyn’s symptoms progressed to the point where they were impacting severely on her quality of life, she was put forward for Deep Brain Stimulation.

How Deep Brain Stimulation works A neurosurgeon places small electrodes into target areas of the brain which are not functioning properly. DBS works by using mild electrical pulses from these electrodes to ‘stun’ the target areas of the brain, thus controlling symptoms such as tremors, slowness and rigidity.

With support from the Northland Parkinson’s society Raewyn has maintained a positive attitude which she states is crucial.

“I realised that there were far worseoff people than me. I am not a social butterfly, but decided that life goes on, so I joined a number of groups offered by the Parkinson’s Society – such as Pilates, physio group, walking group and attended sports events.

I also spent most of my savings on a Mustang, a car I had always liked Raewyn said.”

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

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

32

STROKE FOUNDATION OF NEW ZEALAND Supporting life after stroke in Northland

No 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 of information and is readily available in hospitals and from Community Stroke Advisors.

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

Isobel Finlayson doing her good work with Mary-Anne Stone in the Whangarei Aquatic Centre hydrotherapy pool

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.

One such local support initiative is a stroke hydrotherapy group supported 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

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

33

stroke, meet new people and participate in social activities and special events.

Community Stroke Advisors in Northland Lynelle Ngakuru – Far and 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

THERE IS A “LIFE AFTER STROKE”

M

ary-Anne Stone says she has her community caregiver to thank for literally getting her back on her feet after a severe stroke.

The Northland mum and businesswoman thought she was facing the grim prospect of seeing out her days in a wheelchair in a rest home.

“Boy was I wrong,” she said.

Mary-Anne, 50, had the stroke one night after her shift as a restaurant manager in Brisbane.

“I closed my eyes and went to sleep like any other typical night. I did not feel unwell nor did I have any warning signs. When I woke the next morning I could not move my right leg or arm.

“At that moment I realised something had gone wrong. My partner woke and saw that I was unable to talk coherently or move. He called 111 straight away.”

Mary-Anne spent the next year in hospital, making slow but steady progress through rehabilitation.

But on release from hospital, she found she was getting weaker and was soon confined to a wheelchair, losing her independence and her hope.

Miriam Carter with Mary-Anne Stone on the right

“I thought that would be the end for me. I was going to a place where most people go to live out the last of their days in comfort.”

But her Healthcare Assistant Miriam Carter had other ideas.

Miriam says Mary-Anne’s progress, like that of other young stroke survivors, is rewarding for her too.

“I believe my stroke patients can do

Miriam soon had Mary-Anne on a daily regime of physical exercise and rehabilitation, and a weekly session of stroke hydrotherapy.

whatever they want in life with the right

Five months later Mary-Anne’s gone from the wheelchair to walking, with assistance.

rewarding.

Earlier this year Mary-Anne came home to see family in Whangarei. During the visit she was struck by seizures caused by the stroke, and re-admitted to hospital.

“Miriam Carter is my mentor, friend, motivator and saviour,” Mary-Anne said.

“Whenever I am down we sit and say a prayer together and this lifts my spirits.”

Her family made the difficult decision that Mary-Anne should go into a rest home until suitable housing became available.

With both of their hard-work Mary-Anne’s now in a much better place physically and mentally.

supports. The road to recovery is hard and at times painful, but the gains are highly

“I want Mary-Anne to be a success and a valued part of our community. With the support of Health Care Assistants and whanau she is getting there”.

Proof that while a stroke may be lifechanging, with a little help and hard work, it doesn’t have to be life-ending.

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

34

THE BRAIN INJURY ASSOCIATION NORTHLAND

B

rain injury is often called the ‘silent epidemic’ and referred to as a ‘hidden injury’ as more often than not there are no outwardly visible changes to a person after a brain injury.

However, a brain injury can have life changing results for both the injured person and their family/whanau that may lead to loss of careers, businesses and at times, result in family fracture.

After a brain injury, life can become confusing and difficult to navigate and understand for those affected. Brain Injury Association Northland provides a safe, barrier free access to support for both individuals who have been injured and their families.

In New Zealand brain injuries are categorised into Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) and Chemical Brain Injury (CBI).

A Traumatic Brain Injury results from a sudden impact to the head. Common causes include motor vehicle crashes, violence, falls and sporting injuries.

Acquired Brain Injury occurs as a result of health related events such as strokes, infections such as meningitis, brain tumours and neurotoxic disorders.

Chemical Brain Injury occurs as a result of poisoning by drugs, alcohol, gases, solvents and pesticides.

Typical difficulties experienced by a person after a brain injury are: memory issues, fatigue, sensory impairment, balance problems, but the most challenging issue is that of cognitive impairment which affects the ability to think, concentrate, formulate ideas, reason and remember.

Brain Injury Northland was established in 1998 as an Incorporated Society and is a Registered

Charity. The organisation struggles for funding due to the lack of understanding of brain injury and relies totally on grants and donations.

Currently the organisation has two Liaison Officers (Vikki and Ove) covering an area from Wellsford to Cape Reinga. Our focus is on supporting clients and their families and whanau who have suffered a brain injury.

We offer information and education for people with brain injuries and their families so that they can better understand the implications and effects of the injury.

Contact Details: 98 Cairnfield Road PO Box 4001, Kamo Whangarei Ph: 09 459 5013 Fax: 09 437 0714 Email: northland@mybrain.org.nz Web: www.mybrain.org.nz

OUR YOUTH

MATTER Use your brain to protect yourself and those around you. Make the right choices - avoid distractions, make plans before going out and avoid driving if you are fatigued.

Vikki Herdman with Boris Jurlina a referee from Northland Rugby and Karlene Joyce, a client who shares her concussion story.

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

35

JAYDEN LAMBERT – MY STORY

M

y name is Jayden Lambert, and I am 11 years old. I loved every sport that you could think of, riding my motor bike and drift cart around our section, climbing trees, surfing, and being a bit of a daredevil!

One sunny day in November 2013, I was watching our next door neighbour moving dirt around our garden with the front end loader of his tractor. I decided to get a better view by climbing my favourite tree, not too far from where he was working.

As I was getting down from the tree I reached out to swing down on another branch which snapped under my weight. I fell to the ground, hitting my head as I hit the bottom. I’m not sure quite how long I was there or whether I was knocked out or not, but the doctors believe I must have been.

The next thing I remember is feeling really dizzy and trying to crawl out from under the bush but not being able to move too easily on my own. I could hear Dad and Mum calling for me, and Dad came towards me and lifted me inside. Mum put me on the couch and looked me over, and although I had no obvious injuries, I felt really dizzy and fuzzy inside my head, as if something really bad was going to happen. I started to vomit, and mum took me to the emergency room, where the doctors did a CT scan. Suddenly, within a few minutes, the doctors came and told us that I had a big bleed in my brain,

and needed to go to Auckland for surgery.

The helicopter would be on the roof in 5 minutes. It was all very scary.

By now it was dark, we waited on the roof of the hospital for the helicopter. There were lots of different coloured lights everywhere.

We got to Auckland and I went into surgery straight off the helicopter. I don’t really remember too much of this. The first thing I remember after the surgery is seeing my Mum and Dad. I was in Starship Hospital for 5 nights, my head was all bandaged, and my sister said I looked like a genie!

It was really hard coming back home as there were so many things that I was no longer allowed to do that I loved doing.

Nothing with wheels, nothing that involved screens (ipad/tv/computer), no wrestling with my brother, I was not allowed to get too excited, and I was made to have “rests”.

would help me. It was good for Mum and Dad to talk to other people that had been through a similar experience. Mum could just phone the Brain Injury Association if she wasn’t sure what to do for me at any time and there was someone there to listen and give her advice.

Slowly I was able to do more and more things, and now nearly 3 years on am feeling like myself again. I still have to make sure that I don’t get too tired, and I have to think carefully about what sports I should play to protect my head from knocks, and I am still catching up from all the school I missed. But now with a great support network of friends and family I look forward to leading a full and exciting life!!

I was not allowed to go to school initially, it took nearly a whole year before I was back full time. I got tired really easily, and couldn’t cope very well with lots of noise, and classroom activity. I used to get really angry and hide under my bed, and I didn’t know why. My friends found it hard to play with me because I couldn’t do all the fun things we used to do.

The Brain Injury Association had lots of stuff that Mum and I could read and activities that we could do together that

Jayden with his dad Bin Lambert

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

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

36

THE NEW ZEALAND DOWN SYNDROME ASSOCIATION

T

he New Zealand Down Syndrome Association (NZDSA) is a family/wha¯ nau 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.

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.

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

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

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.

OUR

YOUTH

MATTER

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

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

People with Down syndrome do have features in common, but they also closely

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.

Image of Thomas Sadgrove

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

"Image of Eileen and Madison Turner"

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.

Contact Details: Address: Kara Road, R D 9, Whangarei Telephone/Fax: 09 434 6723 Freephone: 0800 693 724 Email Address: ksadgrove@xtra.co.nz Face book page: Northland Down Syndrome Support Group Website address: www.nzdsa.org.nz

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

37

EVERYONE’S GOT SOMETHING TO GIVE – SAM’S STORY

S

am Davies is a young man with an openness of spirt and a smile that lights up a room. Like any young man, he loves hanging out with his mates and socialising. He likes to look a certain way, and enjoys choosing and wearing ‘hip’ clothes. He has a passion for music, has a great sense of rhythm and loves playing music and dancing.

His parents, Cathy and Dave, say that the greatest challenge Down Syndrome has posed for them as a family is education. “some schools are willing and eager. They’ll work with you and listen. Other schools just don’t want to know, it’s too hard for them.”

Having an inclusive attitude is so important, and at times Cathy found herself having to home-school Sam.

“Sam loves being out and about, he greets everyone he meets, especially if they look ‘hip’,” Dave laughs, “and the Whangarei public are so open and welcoming. No one has reacted in a negative way to Sam.” The next step for Sam is getting out into the workforce, and that is what the Davies family and Sam’s carer are working towards at the moment. The 10 year plan the Davies family has for Sam is to see him settled in a flat with his mates. He’s already begun

The Davies family moved up to Whangarei Heads from Canterbury last year to take advantage of the lifestyle Northland has to offer. They have been thrilled with the opportunities and support they have all been given from Down Syndrome Northland.

Cathy contacted the organisation before they moved and was promptly put in touch with other families with boys of a similar age to Sam. Also on offer were several youth groups and plenty of other activities which give Sam a wide range of social opportunities.

preparing for this by honing his culinary skills. “He was up the other morning, making scrambled eggs, by himself, for the very first time,” Cathy states.

It’s about teaching independence to young people with Down Syndrome, and encouraging them to find their place in the world. With the right support, guidance and inclusive attitude, young people like Sam and his friends have the opportunity to make their contribution to their community.

Sam Davis with parents Cathy and Dave

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

2016

38

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

AGE CONCERN WHANGAREI SERVICES

P

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

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.

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.

Monthly Legal Clinic: We hold free 3/4 hour appointments with Lawyer Katarina Hatzidakis. These have proved very popular. Phone us to make an appointment.

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

Health Promotion / Education- We hold seminars and programmes usually once or twice a month focusing on positive ageing, managing own health and well being, e.g. falls prevention. We have an annual calendar with a wide range of topics - e.g. Specific medical conditions, management of living at an older age, legal issues; the focus is to keep people informed & to let them know what is available.

This year we have included social topics e.g. travel experiences. 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 escort a client to their appointments to “act as a second pair of ears” & perhaps take notes for the client.

Anyone can refer to this free service.

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 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 3 wheelchairs available for hire by day ($5), week ($25) or weekend ($10) and a lending library. 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.

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

LJ Ho ooker are proud to off ffer f a 10% disc count on ourr serv rvice v fee to all Super Gold card d holders.

Please e tell your agent that you are a SuperGold card holde er prior to listing your property to receive your discount upon settlement.

Whangarei

11 James Street Whangarei

Phone 438 1332

Asset Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

39

DON’T DELAY - ACT NOW TO PREVENT TYPE 2 DIABETES!

O

ver 11,000 Northland people have been diagnosed with diabetes and around 90% of this number have type 2 diabetes. It is estimated there are thousands more who have pre-diabetes or who are living with undiagnosed type 2.

Many of us know how diabetes affects our lives and our communities and have seen first-hand how uncontrolled diabetes can damage organs and lead to life-threatening health issues. Because many cases of type 2 diabetes can be prevented by changing your lifestyle, our focus for the future needs to be on prevention, and for those who already have a diagnosis, on living well with diabetes. Some ethnic groups and individuals have a predisposition to diabetes, however, even if you have a higher risk for the disease, you can work toward preventing type 2 diabetes by making lifestyle changes.

Anyone

CAN GET

DIABETES!

Diabetes New Zealand is a charity that represents and supports people living with diabetes and prediabetes. We’ve been around for over 50 years and have a National Office in Wellington.

Our Northland Branch is active in the area from Waipu to Cape Reinga.

Diabetes is the result of the body not creating enough insulin, or not being able to use the insulin created, to keep blood glucose levels in the normal range. High blood sugar can cause many serious health problems. Insulin is essential for metabolizing carbohydrates so that your brain and body have energy.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition and is often diagnosed in children and young adults, although it can be diagnosed at any age. Because of an autoimmune attack on the pancreas, people with type 1 make very little or no insulin. They must test their blood sugar levels frequently and replace insulin by injection. This can mean a lot of

Studies have shown that even with only modest changes in our diets and physical activity, along with minimal weight loss, we can significantly reduce our risk for diabetes.

Be a leader for your whanau and friends

The Northland Branch of Diabetes NZ encourages you to take the lead in your community or family and help them to adopt healthy eating and a regular exercise programme. There are many organisations in the community who can help you and we are here too! If you think you may be at risk for developing type 2 diabetes talk to your doctor or other health professional NOW. If you have diagnosed diabetes, make sure you get your regular checks through the health services and take a good look at your lifestyle to see what you can change for the

needles in one day! There is currently no cure for type 1 diabetes. It is estimated that around 10% of people with diabetes have type 1. There is often confusion between type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and one very creative and inspirational young person with type 1 diabetes and her sister created a name to help people distinguish between them.

Ngaretahu, (an abbreviation of Maori words about diabetes) translates to type 1. While managing type 1 is challenging, there are many highly successful people who live well with the condition.

There are friendly, fun-filled, interesting and supportive youth groups for ngaretahu and their whanau in Whangarei and the mid-North.

better. There are support groups throughout NZ and we would love to help you if you want to set one up in your community. Look out for us at local events and don’t hesitate to contact us to talk about how we can offer information and on-going support.

Don’t wait – let’s get diabetes under control for yourself and the people you love!

children are developing type 2 diabetes.

90% of people with diabetes have type 2.

We can help The Northland Branch of Diabetes NZ offers support and information to help people take charge of their health and live well with diabetes and the action they need to take to avoid diabetes complications or avoid developing type 2 diabetes. We also work to raise awareness about the challenges faced by people with diabetes and represent and advocate for greater awareness and better services.

We do not provide medical information or advice – we complement the services provided by health professionals.

We have support groups throughout Northland.

If you would like to join a group, or you are interested in setting up one in your town, we would love to hear from you.

You can contact our Field Officer:

Email - diabetesnznorthland@gmail.com Type 1 youth group mid-North In type 2 diabetes, either the body doesn’t produce enough insulin, or the cells in the body don’t recognise the insulin that is present. The end result is the same: high levels of glucose in your blood.

For many people (but not all) type 2 diabetes can be prevented by making healthy food choices and staying active. Type 2 diabetes most often occurs in adulthood usually after the ages of 30 – 40 years.

However, increasing numbers of teenagers and

Phn - 021 160 5681

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

40

EVOLUTIONARY PROGRAMME ENABLES YOUNG PERSONS TO LIVE THEIR BEST LIVES - Josephine Wallis, Chief Executive, Geneva Healthcare

T

he team at Geneva Elevator recently launched the Evolution Programme in Whangarei, a pioneering service that enables young persons with Very High and Complex Needs to live their best lives!

Through activities and therapies that focus on the participant’s development and advancement, Evolution is the first of its kind in the community that specifically caters for school leavers aged 21 – 28 who have MSD Very High Needs funding and require a highly individualised care.

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.

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

“Cooking is a big hit as we all love food!

Every week we wash hands, put on aprons and cook lunch in the kitchen area. The best part is we all get to eat what we cooked, especially the all time favourite and yummy macaroni cheese!” - Raewyn Galloway, Transition Specialist, Geneva Elevator.

“

”

Everyone should have the chance to live their best life.

If you have a friend or family who could benefit from Geneva Elevator’s Evolution Programme in Whangarei, please contact: Raewyn Galloway 09 563 5611 or 027 440 6352 raewyng@genevaelevator.co.nz Mondays, Tuesdays, Friday (August) from 9am to 2.30pm 6 Cooke St, Whangarei

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.

Very High Needs & Transition Services

Home and Community Support Services

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

Live well and continue to enjoy living independently in your own home with personalised care and support from our Nurse or Support Worker who has been selected especially for you.

• Tailored support for individuals • Group programme with community participation • Work life programme for the Deaf or Hearing Impaired • Rehabilitation: Physical, Occupational, Drama & Art Therapy • Transitioning school leavers into training, tertiary studies, work experience or paid work

• • • • • • • • •

Let your Geneva Healthcare family support you.

0508 353 828 or enquiries@genevaelevator.co.nz

Let your Geneva Healthcare family support you.

0800 425 999 or info@genevanorthlink.com

Geneva Elevator

Personal Care, Home Help, Companionship Respite Care/Carer Support Aged & Dementia Care, Palliative Care Disability Support & Rehabilitation Chronic Long Term Support Post Surgical & Post Accident Care Spinal & Brain Injury Care Maternity & Child Care Private or Government Funded

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. 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:

Vocational and Day opportunities:

Home support:

Accommodation Services:

A flexible form of support that considers the person’s needs along with their family/ wha¯nau.

In residential services small groups of people live in a home in our community. In Te Tai Tokerau we have 29 residential homes throughout our beautiful region.

Families/ wha¯nau that have your family member stay with them in their home Foster Care: Keeping families/whanau together is important to us. If foster care goes ahead we ensure that the children/tamariki and wha¯nau keep in close contact.

Contract Board: This is about people choosing to live in a home with caregivers. A more individualised support.

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.

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

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

If you love people and supporting people to reach their potential, then you should consider working with IDEA Services. Our staff and caregivers 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 seven years, six of those as a Community Support Worker in our Accommodation Service and one year 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.

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

or come in to our Whangarei Office 14-20 Clyde Street, 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 Brendon Goodley on 09 470-2087.

‘‘

Shared Care:

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

‘‘

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

42

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 Parahaki Court Rest Home Manager Mary-Anne Thompson speaks about their facilities.

“Our rest home provides rest home level care, and offers both carer support and respite care.

Our Divisional Therapist provides a daily activity programme, which is constructed in consultation with our residents ensuring that there is always enjoyment for everyone.

Special days are catered for in our own unique way. Your own medical practitioner may continue to care for you at Parahaki Court

Rest Home, but we will assist you with finding a new doctor if you require one. With only 25 residents, we ensure an intimate environment with personalised care.

Shalom Aged Care Managers Chris McFarlane and Roz Fitzpatrick spoke about how their prime objective is to deliver rest home care that is second to none. Residents and their families are Shalom’s key focus.

They are committed to providing holistic quality rest home care with support and service to the highest standard reflecting the individuality of all the residents in a safe and secure setting. We have added 4 new rooms, due for completion this month. This won’t increase the bed numbers, still only 30 beds, but we have enlarged the rooms and added ensuites to some of our existing rooms.

Rest Home residents at Shalom Aged Care are able to retain the freedom to spend time with friends and family and can take great comfort in knowing that professional staffs are available to assist when required.

PROUD TO SUPPORT OUR COMMUNITY SERVICES IN NORTHLAND

HOME AWAY FROM HOME CARE • COMFORT • COMPANIONSHIP

Quality Care Within a Small Home Like Environment 45-47 Kamo Road, Whangarei

PHONE: 09 437 3311

Manager Maryanne Thompson, RN Licensed by the Health Department Email: maryanne@parahaki.co.nz

62 Mill Road, Kensington, Whangarei Ph: 09 437 6511 Email: shalomagedcare@xtra.co.nz

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

43

RESPITE AND RESIDENTIAL SUPPORT FOR YOUNG PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

S

pectrum 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.

All our services support people to identify their personal goals and aspirations.

These are developed into a personalised and achievable ‘Outcomes’ plan, which supports people with disabilities to achieve their immediate and lifelong objectives.

Our Vision is ‘People with disabilities living great lives’.

Residential Support

Located in a variety of community settings across the upper North Island, our residential

houses give the people we support the opportunity to live in a shared home, within a community environment.

Generally sharing with two or three others, people live lives in the community – lives like any other. People live lives of choice, engaging in daily domestic activities, going on social outings, attending Aspirations activity and vocational centres, or going to work.

Respite Support

We also provide structured respite care and support for the families of people with disabilities (and medical or technological dependencies) in the greater Auckland, Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions.

Respite services are aimed at families that need ‘time out’ or training and support.

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 Services • Advocacy Services • Aspirations Services • Transition Services • Home Support Services • Community Cultural Services • Child, Youth and Respite Services • Orakau House – Respite care for infants • School Holiday Programme www.spectrumcare.org.nz

People with disabilities living great lives

Our respite facilities are staffed by highly trained carers on a 24-hour basis and are designed to accommodate people who have high-and-complex behaviour needs, profound disabilities and/or technological dependencies, while at the same time providing a ‘home away from home’ atmosphere. www.spectrumcare.org.nz

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

44

OUR SENIOR CITIZENS ARE BRIDGING THE GAP IN NORTHLAND

L

ast year Citizens Advice Bureaux volunteers nationally received more than 520,000 enquiries on issues ranging from immigration, housing and employment to consumer rights, health and family issues.

The Whangarei bureau fields about 10,000 of these each year.

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”.

Volunteer interviewers at CAB Whangarei receive regular training to keep them up to speed with new legislation.

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.

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

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@xtra.co.nz • www.adultdaycentre.co.nz

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

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP “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. You can just pop into our bureau at the Old Town Hall at 71 Bank St or call 438 8046 and we can help you work through your options.”

The Whangarei bureau also hosts a free legal advice clinic every two weeks, and has advocates available to support clients at governmentt department appointments.

During Volunteering Week this year the bureau hosted NZ Refining CEO Sjoerd Post, left, who helped out on a shift. Moea Armstrong presents him with his certificate of service.

Greenways Trust is a Dargaville based organisation that has been supporting adults with Intellectual Disabilities since 1992.

We offer residential accommodation and Vocational Services. Activities offered through our Social Enterprise include Firewood, woodwork, Market Stalls, Section Clean up Audience(s) Peopple with intellecttual disabilities aged 18 years upwards.

Days/Times Available 9.00am - 5.00pm Monday to Friday. 24 hour residential supervvision.

Area(s) of Service Kaipara, Northhland Costs Free service usually fundedd by MSD and MOH. PO Box 5, Dargaville Phone: (09) 439 8133 Fax: (09) 439 8134, Email: greenwaystrust@xtra.co.nz

45

Talking About the

Elephant in the Room.

SF are running a Talking About The Elephant Workshop in August in Whangarei, contact us now to book your free place

I

t’s hard to talk to kids about alcohol and drug use in families and whanau, but Supporting Families is providing free workshops to help you talk about it at home too.

So many of us have parents or close family members who drank and used drugs too much. We have grown up with these things in our families and we see it happening again – yet most of our kids seem ok, although we still don’t talk about it – right?

As adults we get lots of mixed messages about what’s OK and not OK for our kids, and we hear a lot about those kids that are hurt as a result of someone’s drug or alcohol use. We don’t want to think such

things could happen in our own family.

Even so, that doesn’t make it easy to talk about just like the “elephant in the room”, something the family can see, that gets in the way of their lives, but nobody says anything.

If you’re concerned about whether drinking or drug use in your family is also a worry for your kids – then it probably is. If you are worried about how much it might harm your kids, then the answer is, “it depends “- on lots of things, not just the drinking or drug use.

It depends on the children – how old are they? Little children are the most vulnerable. Can they talk about things and ask for help? Do they have talents that keep them strong, or other problems that also challenge them?

It depends on ‘how’ adults are drinking/ using drugs - whether kids are exposed to risks, such as out of control people, or even if they have access to drugs and alcohol themselves.

It depends on parents and whanau - providing consistent love and care with ‘tuned in’ parenting, which makes all the difference. Kids need to know they didn’t cause the drinking or drug use, they can’t control it and they can’t cure it – it’s all about adult responsibility.

It depends on other supports and services in the community – does the

family need help with finance, or any other problems, such as family violence?

When problems start to mount up, kids become challenged in their resilience.

They find it hard to “bounce back”. They can develop problems at school and home, with concerns about their physical and mental health. When children are seriously hurt it is most often because families have many worries - along with too much drinking and drug use.

Supporting Families offer free “Talking About The Elephant” workshops, that provide you with a chance to meet with a group of ordinary people and to talk about this part of our lives. The 1.5 hour workshop will help you learn ways to keep children, families and whanau safe and strong, even when alcohol and drug issues are a problem at home.

SF provides a range of free workshops and individual supports for families and whanau, covering many aspects of mental health and addiction. For a full list of what is available please check out our website, or call: Cath – Municipal Building, 71 Bank St, Whangarei – 4380946 Sholay – Kingston House, 123 Hone Heke Rd, Kerikeri - 027 277 2368

Auckland 0800 732825 Northland 0800 789134

supportingfamilies.org.nz

2016

DISABILITY BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

47

2016-2017 CALENDAR OF EVENTS AUGUST 2016 8th – 14th 11th August 15th – 21st

18th August 26th 29th August to 4th September 31st Auggust to 6th Sepptember

SEPTEMBER 2016 1st – 30th

6

th

13th – 19th 18th 21st 25th

OCTOBER 2016 1st 1st 4th

10th 12th 14th 20th 29th 27th

NOVEMBER 2016 1st 1st – 7th 1st – 30th 17th

DECEMBER 2016

2nd 3rd Annually 6th

10th FEBRUARY 2017 13th Annually on 2nd Mondayy in Februaryy MARCH 2017 26th APRIL 2017 2nd 7th Annually 11th MAY 2017 1st – 31st 31st JUNE 2017 21st 27th Annually

Parent to Parent awareness week www.parent2parent.org.nz Join the Conversation Workshop – NZ Disability Strategy review of draft www.jointhecoversation.nz Cystic Fibrosis Week - collection day 19 August www.cfnz.org.nz Epilepsy Information Seminar Whangarei: 10am – 12 noon @ CAB Lounge, 71 Bank Street, Whangarei. To register contact Margaret on (09) 438 5498 or northland@epilepsy.org.nz Daffodil Day www.dafodilday.org.nz Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week www.msnz.org.nz Asthma Awareness Week www.asthmafoundation.orgg.nz Save Our Sight Month www.nzao.co.nz www.saveoursight.co.nz Epilepsy Support Group meeting: 10.30 – 12 noon @ CAB Lounge, 71 Bank Street, Whangarei. To register contact Margaret on (09) 438 5498 or northland@epilepsy.org.nz Age Concern Awareness Week www.ageconcern.org.nz Alzheimer’s Memory Walk – Northland World Alzheimer’s Day www.alzheimers.org.nz Walk 2 D’Feet MND www.walk2dfeetmnd.co.nz Spring Blast II – Fundraising Dinner for Brain Injury Association Northland – 7pm Forum North, see Facebook page for more info: Brain Injjuryy Association Northland Tickets $100 from www.ticketek.co.nz Earlyy Bird Sppecial International Dayy of Older Person www.aggeconcern.orgg.nz Epilepsy Support Group meeting: 10.30 – 12 noon @ CAB Lounge, 71 Bank Street, Whangarei. To register contact Margaret on (09) 438 5498 or northland@epilepsy.org.nz World Mental Health Day www.mentalhealth.org.nz World Arthritis Day www.worldarthritisday.org Art and General Auction - The Northland Club, Viewing/Dinner/Drinks from 5pm. Auction 7.30pm more info coming www.msnz.org.nz World Osteoporosis Day www.bones.org.nz World Stroke Awareness Day Epilepsy Information Seminar Kaitaia: 10am – 12 noon @ Far North REAP, 33 Puckey Ave, Kaitaia. To register contact Marggaret on (09)) 438 5498 or northland@eppileppsyy.orgg.nz Epilepsy Support Group meeting: 10.30 – 12 noon @ CAB Lounge, 71 Bank Street, Whangarei. To register contact Margaret on (09) 438 5498 or northland@epilepsy.org.nz Parkinson’s Society Awareness and Appeal Week www.parkinsons.org.nz Epilepsy New Zealand “Talk about it” Campaign month www.epilepsy.org.nz Epilepsy Information Seminar Whangarei: 10am – 12 noon @ CAB Lounge, 71 Bank Street, Whangarei. To register contact Marggaret on (09)) 438 5498 or northland@eppileppsyy.orgg.nz Tiaho Trust celebration of IDPD on the Canopy Bridge, Whangarei More info coming www.tiaho.org.nz International Day of People with Disabilities (IDPD) Epilepsy Support Group meeting: 10.30 – 12 noon @ CAB Lounge, 71 Bank Street, Whangarei. To register contact Margaret on (09) 438 5498 or northland@epilepsy.org.nz World Human Rigghts Dayy www.amnestyy.orgg.nz International Epilepsy Day www.epilepsy.org Eppileppsyy Awareness “Purpple Dayy” www.ppurppledayy.orgg World Autism Awareness Day www.autismspeaks.org Bronchiectasis Awareness Day www.bxfoundation.org.nz World Parkinson’s Dayy www.pparkinsons.orgg.nz Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month World Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Day www.worldmsday.org MND Awareness day 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

Medical Alarms

Keeping you safe at home.

We offer 24 hour assistance, seven days a week nationwide and we’ll cover any emergency ambulance costs. Our Health Field Officer Pam has lived and worked in the Northland area for several years. She is very passionate about her community. It is important to her that older people are able to remain safe in their own homes.

Call Pam Lomas our friendly Health Field Officer on 0800 60 80 99 bupa.co.nz