Find Your Flow
All abilities Yoga class
Date
4th June 2025
Location
Spao Ottobock Care
Level 2, 3 Rawson St Wollongong
Time 12:00 to 01:00 pm
Lunch provided
Exciting news for the Gold Coast Manager’s Message
Embracing life’s new beat
Jack and Shanai highlight’s New Team Members Roger’s Journey Technician Insights
Movao Online community platform
Ella’s Story
The power of a positive mindset
Dear Valued Patients,
My name is Jess Fox, and I’m the Lead Prosthetist/Orthotist and Clinic Manager at Spao Ottobock Care on the beautiful Gold Coast
As many of our Gold Coast clients know, our facility has long been in need of a makeover one that better reflects the stunning weather we’re fortunate enough to enjoy and provides a fresh, updated vibe for our community.
We’ve been proud to serve many of you for over 20 years, ever since Barry Leech and his family first opened the doors And now, since our transition to Spao Ottobock Care, we’ve reached a point where we’ve truly outgrown our current space.
I’m thrilled to share that we’ve started the search for a new location within the same area, and we’ll be sure to keep you updated on the progress and timing of our big move.
In the meantime, we’d love to hear your thoughts on what you’d like to see in our new facility Next time you’re in, feel free to chat with our team and share any ideas or suggestions you might have
Looking forward to creating an even better space for you all!
Warm regards,
Jess Fox Lead Prosthetist & Orthotist Clinic Manager Spao Ottobock Care
Technician Spotlight
Enhancing Style and Function
Meet Shanai, a Prosthetic and Orthotic Technician at Spao Ottobock Care, where she combines technical skill with a passion for patient empowerment While precise fit and function are the foundations of P&O care, Shanai is a strong advocate for another crucial element: cosmetics.
"Prosthetics and orthotics should do more than just function; they should inspire," Shanai believes She sees firsthand how a device's appearance impacts a user's life, influencing everything from confidence to self-expression and personal style Recognising that feeling good about a device is essential, with technicians like Shanai bringing ideas to life, ensures patients don't have to compromise aesthetics for comfort Shanai encourages patients to view their device as a canvas for expression and to share their ideas, big or small, with their clinician Spao Ottobock Care offers a wealth of cosmetic possibilities to reflect individual personalities:
Lamination Magic: Favourite fabrics, wood-grain patterns, or even lace can be seamlessly integrated into prosthetic sockets.
AFO Colour Burst: Transfer papers allow for vibrant, patterned finishes on Ankle Foot Orthotics. Carbon Fibre Statements: Sleek and durable, carbon fibre can be personalised with logos or designs, like the featured Harley-Davidson socket.
Subtle & Natural: Custom foam covers and carefully matched skin-tone sockets offer more traditional aesthetic options.
‘Let's create a device that makes you feel not just suported, but truly seen and confident’ - Shanai
Movao is an online community platform where amputees and their loved ones can connect – locally and globally – with like-minded people who share similar interests and challenges.
Whether you're looking for Fitness for Amputees
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Surfing Through Life: Ella’s Story
Ella
shows the power of a positive mindset
Hi I'm Ella! I’m 30 years old and a below-the-knee amputee. I lost my leg when I was just one day old due to sepsis (blood poisoning) It’s all I’ve ever known, and I’ve never let it define or limit me. Growing up, I was always super active playing every sport I could and constantly moving These days, I’m a surfer girl, which has become such a big part of my life. My journey with prosthetics has been full of learning, adapting, and finding what works best for me, but I’ve always approached it with positivity and determination. I’ve spent the past eight years working as a Youth Worker in the Child Safety space, and it’s been one of the most challenging yet deeply rewarding roles I’ve ever had Supporting young people through some really tough times has taught me so much about resilience, compassion, and the power of human connection I absolutely love being a Youth worker, and being able to show up for these kids, advocate for them, and be a steady presence in their lives is something I’m really proud of.
One of the biggest challenges has been finding the right balance between functionality and comfort especially being so active and in the ocean every day. It took time to get to a point where my prosthetics truly supported the lifestyle I wanted, but having an amazing prosthetist who really listens and cares has made all the difference Instead of seeing my leg as a limitation, I’ve always seen it as just part of who I am. That mindset has been key.
Daily Life & Activities
Surfing is my biggest passion I'm in the water almost every day, and it brings me so much joy and freedom I also love staying active in general, whether it’s hiking, swimming, or just being outside in nature.
My surfing journey has been nothing short of lifechanging. I started surfing just over two years ago, shortly after moving from Melbourne to the Gold Coast I’ve been incredibly lucky to build a beautiful surf community on the Gold Coast, which started as a small group and has since grown into something really special including our very own surf retreats in Lombok, Indonesia I now spend around six months each year in Indonesia, surfing daily and hosting retreats where strangers become friends, people learn to surf in a tropical paradise, and lifelong memories are made.
Clinician & Care Experience
My experience with Spao Ottobock Care has been absolutely incredible. Jess, my prosthetist, is one of the most caring and talented people I’ve ever met. Every appointment feels like catching up with a friend we always have the best chats, and she’s so thoughtful and caring. She’s created a waterproof leg that I use every day for surfing, and my everyday leg matches my skin tone and shape perfectly, which is something that’s really important to me. Jess truly listens and creates solutions that fit not just my physical needs, but my lifestyle and personality too.
Support & Motivation
I’ve been lucky to have so many strong role models throughout my life My biggest source of strength has always been the people closest to me. My family and friends have supported me unconditionally since day one They’ve never treated me like I was different or incapable only ever with love, encouragement, and belief in everything I’ve wanted to do Their support has been the foundation of my resilience. Every challenge I’ve faced has felt lighter because I’ve had them by my side, cheering me on, lifting me up, and reminding me of my worth I honestly feel so lucky to be surrounded by such incredible humans. They are a huge part of why I am who I am today, and I’ll never take that for granted.
To anyone new to using a prosthesis: be patient with yourself It’s a journey, and some days will feel easier than others But don’t be afraid to speak up about what you need. You deserve to feel comfortable, confident, and supported and remember, it’s okay to lean on the people who care about you. You don’t have to do it all alone.
Looking Ahead
I want to keep pushing boundaries both personally and athletically Surfing has opened up a whole new world for me, I’d love to continue chasing waves, and exploring new surf spots across the globe I’m passionate about creating opportunities for others to experience that same freedom and connection in the ocean. I know how powerful it can be to see someone like you doing something you didn’t think possible and I’d love to be that example and support for someone else.
Professionally, I’m excited to keep building my business - SummerSama Surf Retreats
Whether it's through surf retreats, storytelling, or just showing up authentically in my everyday life, I want to help shift perceptions and break down barriers especially for the next generation growing up with limb difference. There's so much strength in our uniqueness, and I truly believe in creating spaces where everyone feels seen, supported, and celebrated.
At the same time, staying connected to the youth space is still important. The people I’ve worked with over the years, have been some of the biggest inspirations in my life. Their resilience and ability to keep showing up despite what they’ve been through constantly reminds me of what it means to be truly brave. They’ve shaped the way I see the world, and I’ll always carry their stories and lessons with me in everything I do
Keep up with Ella’s journey follow her on Instagram @ellacrosling