Most of us would feel nervous about walking our daughter down the aisle and making a speech at their wedding. South Australian client Bob had more reason than most to worry. He’d had a past brain tumour, and a diagnosis of aphasia and Guillain Barre Syndrome. Fortunately, Bob's SA allied health team designed his care plan and Bob was determined to do his best.
Many of us have a fear of public speaking. But RDNS Silverchain client Bob had more reasons than most.
Bob has had brain surgery to remove a tumour. He is also living with aphasia, both of which affect communication. Thankfully, Bob has Amber Blanch, an RDNS Silverchain speech pathologist. Amber helped Bob get ready for his big day.
“I’ve been supporting Bob to achieve some of his big life goals,” Amber said. “His first one was giving a speech at his daughter’s wedding.”
Giving the speech was important to Bob, but Amber sees communication as much more than being able to deliver words on a special occasion.
Bob is also living with Guillain Barre Syndrome, a condition in which the body’s immune system attacks the body’s nerves. It can cause weakness, numbness and potentially, paralysis. This was top of mind for Bob as he prepared to walk his daughter down the aisle. So, the RDNS Silverchain allied health team rallied around Bob. His care plan included physiotherapy and personal training to strengthen his body. He also had occupational therapy-prescribed home modifications to limit his risk of falls. Dietetics also helped him halt the weight loss he experienced following hospitalisation. Together with Bob’s determination, the team made the dream possible.
“I honestly don’t think I could’ve done it without the assistance and perseverance of the RDNS Silverchain team,” Bob said. “I’d already given one daughter away and I wanted to do the same for our youngest. I wanted to achieve that goal because I knew how important that, and the speech, was to my daughter.
“By the time I’d finished the speech I felt very happy and relieved. I had my other daughter alongside me in case I couldn’t get the words out and my son down the row. I was a little bit emotional, but all the practice paid off and my daughter was really happy.”
With that win under his belt, Bob, and his wife Linley (his carer, coach, and biggest supporter), have set their sights on even bigger goals.
“I want to go out in my boat and we’re even planning to take a cruise. I want to enjoy ourselves together with our two dogs, enjoy our future. That’s what it’s all about.”
Read more about our in home health and aged care services here.
