SNN July 2018

We sometimes take the knowledge we have for granted.
Recognising this, we’ve launched a brand new weekly video series
to share tips, tricks and life hacks for living a confident, productive,
and independent life with an SCI. Featuring staff and members of
our community they are released every Thursday at 10am on our
Facebook page and YouTube channel.
In the first episode New Zealand Spinal Trust Peer and Family
Support Coordinator Jazz Calder, a paraplegic who now uses a
power wheelchair to preserve her shoulders, explains how she
modified and uses her side entry van. She shows the accessible
wheelchair hoist, hand controls, camper-van setup with accessible
toilet, and portable ramps, and the freedom it brings her.
What was it like making the episode Jazz?
“I was pretty nervous, but Mike reminded me to imagine I was
talking to someone lying in the hospital or to a friend who wanted
to know about my setup. That advice reminded me exactly why
we’re doing this video series, and helped me feel less self-conscious.
It feels great to pass on my knowledge and I hope it helps.”
For episode four we visited incomplete tetraplegic Craig Muir
where he proudly shared the automations in his home. These
include smart phone controlled windows, doors, curtains and lights
which have reduced the need for in-home help and increased his
independence.
In another episode Josh Caldwell shows his stationary hand-bike
and shows us how to use a standing frame to bring pressure relief.
In episode two, paraplegic Brett Ladbrook from Connecting People
explained why he chose his vehicle, how he transfers in from his
wheelchair, what sort of hand controls he uses, and gives us a
driving demonstration.
Brett said: “I’ve really enjoyed the process of sharing my
experiences. Since I had my spinal cord injury in 1985 I’ve learnt a
few tips that make my life easier. I’m happy to pass these on, and
it’s great to see the videos are stimulating discussions. Together we
can innovate, encourage and support each other. This is what peer
support is all about.”
Some of the episodes in the pipeline include a custom built
accessible home, how to drive if you’re a C5 tetraplegic, ride a
motorbike as a paraplegic, a wheelchair attachment comparison,
travel tips and many more. Get the latest by subscribing to our
YouTube channel which is linked from our website.
If you’d like to share your tips on video, or have some suggested
content, please get in touch by emailing
mike.brown@nzspinaltrust.org.nz
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