SNN_April 2020 Issue master

May 2020 

Volume 23 / Issue 1 

SNNSpinal Network News 

COVID-19 VOLUNTEER STORIES FIGHTING FATHER TIME 

We Look at the Impact of 

the Global Pandemic 

We Pay Tribute to our 

Army of Volunteers 

Ageing with a Spinal 

Cord Impairment 

7 8 32 

Limitless 

We talk to Jezza Williams on Inclusive Tourism

NEW ZEALAND SPINAL TRUST 2 

Contents 

3 

20 Books by Christmas 

Peter Thornton 

19 

Man’s Best Friend 

Helping People with SCI Find Independence 

5 

2020 Supporting Positive Futures 

Hans Wouters 

22 

Empathy and Grit 

Gavin Rolton’s Recovery to Fulltime Work 

7 

How the NZST Rallied Together 

During the Global Pandemic 

25 

Cory Newman 

Rock and Roll all Night, and Party Every Day 

8 

Our Volunteers 

The Backbone of the NZST 

26 

No Ordinary Guy 

We Catch up with Golfer Guy Harrison 

12 

A Man on a Mission 

Jezza Williams on Inclusive Tourism 

29 

The Stats on Spinal Cord Impairment 

you Need to Know 

17 

Telling it like it is 

Teina Boyd 

30 

Resource Centre 

New Additions 

18 

A Special Thanks to 

John Miller Law 

32 

Fighting Father Time 

Ageing with an SCI by Lynn James 

EDITORIAL TEAM 


Hi my name is Peter Thornton, I am so proud to be the 

editor of this great magazine. I believe it is a publication 

that has the power to change lives. I am writing the 

final updates on this SNN from lockdown as we all look 

to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Stay home and stay 

safe everyone, we will get through this together. 

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS 


Hans Wouters 

Bernadette Cassidy 

THANKS FOR THE IMAGES 

Thanks to: Teina Boyd, 

Attitude Awards, Jezza 

Williams, Gavin Rolton, 

Mobility Dogs, Rachael 

Andrew Hall 

Teina Boyd 

Lynn James 

Walker and Guy Harrison 

for the photos in this issue. 

Bernadette Cassidy 

Kia ora, my name is Bernadette Cassidy, it’s a 

pleasure to be part of the SNN Editorial Team. 

Hopefully by the time you receive your copy we will 

be out of the lockdown and getting back to some 

normality. Stay safe, Kia Kaha. 

Patrons of the New 

Zealand Spinal Trust, 

Sir Tim Wallis (left) and 

Trevor Harrison (right). 

SPINAL NETWORK NEWS is 

published by the NZ Spinal Trust 

Send your contributions to: 

The Editor SPINAL NETWORK NEWS 

c/- New Zealand Spinal Trust, Private 

Bag 4708, Christchurch 8140 

Tel: (03) 383 9484 

Email: 

peter.thornton@nzspinaltrust.org.nz 

Web: 

www.nzspinaltrust.org.nz 

Copy Proofing: Jackie Grimshaw 

Cover Photo: Jezza Williams, of 

MakingTrax, shows what is possible 

with a never-say-die attitude. 

Disclaimer: The views expressed 

in SPINAL NETWORK NEWS are 

those of its contributors. They do not 

necessarily represent the opinion 

of the members of the Editorial 

Committee or the policies of the 

New Zealand Spinal Trust.

SPINAL NETWORK NEWS 3 

20 Books by 

Christmas 


Editorial 

It is my favourite time of the day. I wake up at 

6am to eat my porridge and peaches for brekkie 

with my two princesses—it always amazes 

me how much energy children have first 

thing in the morning—before I begin my day. 

I walk for a few minutes down the road to catch the NX1 

Bus into the heart of Auckland City. Finally, I take my 

seat, unpack my bag and get my book out. Life with two 

kids under the age of four and a busy job means it is pretty 

hectic most days, but this is my time. I open my book to 

find the folded page and, immediately, I am taken to 

another place. It is pure escapism. This column was 

written before the COVID-19 virus spread around the 

world, but this period of lockdown highlighted that, even 

in the most chaotic time, there is nothing quite like 

escaping in a good book. 

The beauty of reading is 

whatever the text is, it is 

interpreted differently 

by everyone. 

When I worked on the North Shore, about a 10-minute 

drive from my home, I would cross over the Northern 

Motorway and look at the queue of cars as far-as-the-eyecould-see 

and be thankful I was not heading in that 

direction. Not anymore. Well, it helps that now, instead of 

driving, I make my journey on the much-improved 

Auckland bus network which has changed the lives of 

many in the city. Anyway I digress. 

Already, in 2020, I have read some brilliant non-fiction 

novels. I re-read Ken Follet’s masterpiece Pillars of the 

Earth, which is set in the middle of 12th century Britain and 

into the heart of drama, conflict and tragedy as Kingsbridge 

Cathedral is built. More recently, it was difficult to put 

down Jeffrey Archer’s Prisoner of Birth. What a novel! It 

had so many twists and turns all the way to the last page. 

Also, John Grisham’s latest thriller The Guardians is as 

good as readers expect from one of the best. 

Whenever I put my book down, it is as though I have 

pressed “pause” on a gripping movie, and I can’t wait to 

find out what happens next. The beauty of reading is: 

whatever the text is, it is interpreted differently by 

everyone. Our minds take the text and fill in the blanks 

from our own lives to complete the picture of the story. 

Every day at this part of my journey, I pause from 

reading—no matter what is happening at that point in the 

book. I look up and just take it all in. The view of 

Auckland City across the stillness of the Harbour first 

thing in the morning is breath-taking. I soak up the view 

and am thankful to be living in our incredible country. 

Anyway, back to my book. I used to enjoy reading, but 

now I LOVE it. It has become an obsession, and I’ll admit 

there have been more than a few times when I have 

I have set the goal of reading 20 books by 

Christmas, are you with me? 

almost missed my bus stop, because I am just somewhere 

else entirely. One of the best parts of the summer holiday 

every year is being lost in a book, which takes away any 

stress and worries, so why not do that every day? 

I look around the bus and there are plenty of people 

pouring over their cell phones – no one talks to anyone 

anymore – and I want to shake them and let them know 

what they are missing. I think better of it—one day they’ll 

figure it out.


Every morning at a certain point I stop reading and look outside. I reflect and know that I am lucky to live here. 

Professor Alan Clarke knew a 

thing or two… he understood 

the importance of good 

information. It is all about 

empowering people to be in 

charge of their own journey. 

Technology—smart phones, the internet, social 

media—have advanced our society in ways we never 

imagined possible, but it is not all to our betterment. 

Sadly, our generation (together with many other factors) 

will be defined by the obsession of being on the phone, an 

exhaustive amount of time spent on social media, and not 

really talking or listening to one another. 

Of course I know I am not breaking news here—that 

reading is a wonderful way to spend one’s time—but, too 

often, we forget how good simple pleasures are. 

Professor Alan Clarke, the esteemed founder of the New 

Zealand Spinal Trust, knew a thing or two. No one needed 

to tell him twice about the value of reading. As we 

celebrated our 25th Anniversary in 2019, former NZST 

CEO and Chairman, Andrew Hall, wrote of the Library at 

the Allan Bean Centre. 

“Professor Clarke was an academic, a surgeon/scientist, so 

he understood the importance of good information. He 

would say ‘To be able to take charge of your own 

rehabilitation, you need the right information, and only 

so much information is available out of a person’s mouth.’ 

The information often needed is in books or on the 

internet so, in that respect, a library—which is so much 

more than just books in the modern sense—is all about 

empowering people to be in charge of their own journey.” 

Well said. 

Reading has improved my life no end. I have more 

concentration at work, and I sleep better. Rather than 

swiping through countless apps on my iPhone moments 

before bed, which only winds my mind up, these days I 

read until I can’t read anymore and fall sound asleep 

moments after my head hits the pillow. 

I am a better writer from reading (well you can be the 

judge of that, I guess!), and I find my mental capacity is 

growing with each novel. 

Most importantly, I am setting a better example for my 

daughters. Charlie (4) and Georgie (2) are beautiful little 

girls, who soak up everything around them like a sponge. 

An example of showing them to read, rather than 

resorting to my phone or watching telly as a default, is 

much more powerful than telling them what to do. We 

have noticed a difference. There are no screams anymore 

of “Five more minutes!!!” when the TV is switched off. 

They are filling their days with play and, when it comes to 

bed time, we are reading as many books as we can before 

they can’t keep their eyes open anymore. 

In every SNN, we outline the Latest Additions to the NZST 

Resource Centre. Don’t skip over it. Visit the Resource 

Centre and find something of interest. 

Three books down. I have set myself the goal of reading 

20 books by Christmas. And, don’t worry, I won’t be 

rushing through them. I’ll make sure I enjoy the genius of 

each one…. Are you with me?


Supporting 

Positive Futures 

Hans Wouters 

CEO’s Column 

Hans Wouters, CEO of the NZ Spinal Trust with Su Marshall, new Fundraising Manager 

standing in front of the new mural outside the Burwood Spinal Unit. 

I had the considerable privilege recently to 

meet a middle-aged woman who, just days 

before, had one of the most powerful life 

shocks anyone can have. 

Her husband, best friend and father to their children had 

fallen six metres on to his head. He was now paralysed 

and in an induced coma in an ICU ward. As we spoke, she 

was calm, yet despite a brave face there was fear and 

uncertainty all over it. 

In the eight days since taking this dramatic fork in their 

road, she had drawn all sorts of dire conclusions about 

their future, based on her limited understanding of 

tetraplegia. With us at the time was the father of a young 

lad who was about to be discharged from the Spinal Unit. 

His contribution to our conversation was profoundly 

effective and comforting—been there, done that, got 

through it! 

As I carefully shared stories of past patients who had 

presented similarly and the dramatic differences in 

outcome, she began to see that, in fact, most who sustain 

a spinal cord impairment can and do have a positive 

future. There is no doubt, of course, that it will be one 

heck of a journey and a monumental challenge for her and 

her whānau. 

I have to say it no longer amazes me how—when faced 

with seemingly insurmountable obstacles and life 

changing difficulties—almost all people find a way. As Sir 

The end result is truly 

spectacular... with a vibrant 

mural depicting many 

examples of positive life after 

spinal cord impairment. 

Winston Churchill famously said: “If you are going 

through hell, keep going!”. Hope is the key that unlocks 

the door of possibility and people can find that hope in 

their heart. Our team can help people move from hopeless 

to hopeful and support their positive future because, 

although they may not see it just yet, they do have one. 

When the Burwood Spinal Unit was renovated recently, it 

was decided the wall containing Spinal Trust images 

should be freshened up as well. The end result with our 

new logo and imagery is truly spectacular, with a vibrant 

mural depicting many examples of positive life after 

spinal cord impairment. We hope the cheerful images will 

be uplifting and encouraging for the patients and their 

whānau, as they pass by them many times each day. 

With over 80 per cent of our income coming from


donations and grants, revenue generation is the key to our 

sustainability. Recently, Su Marshall, the National Grants 

Manager at SPCA, decided to bring her many years of 

fund-raising experience to us, and has taken the full-time 

role of NZST National Fund-raising Manager. 

We are thrilled with the appointment and, in the first two 

months, Su has already made her mark, securing a 

significant sponsorship with advanced rehabilitation 

technology supplier, Permobil. Permobil have taken a step 

up from being a backpack sponsor to a Platinum sponsor 

for the next 12 months, and we are thrilled to have Owen, 

Grant and Andrea behind our organisation and helping us 

support positive futures. Thank you for your support 

Permobil; we look forward to working together with your 

great team. 

After three-and-a-half years operating out of a 3 x 3m 

Portacom, our Resource Centre (formerly known as the 

Allan Bean Centre Library) has a new home right next to 

our Peer & Whānau Support and Vocational Rehab teams. 

The location being on the main route from the Spinal Unit 

to the Physio Gym puts us in a prime location to deliver 

this important service to patients, whānau and hospital 

staff. I am incredibly excited by this development, as it 

puts all three key services next to each other, allowing us to 

refer a visitor, swiftly and effectively, to the other services 

and staff when required. Be sure to visit Bernadette, 

Nancy, Jackie and team and peruse their latest materials 

specialising in disability and rehabilitation, including 

spinal cord injury, brain injury and many other topics. 

Also available is computer training, loan of tablets, 

portable DVD players and much more. 

As I write, the Covid-19 Coronavirus has the globe by the 

throat and the impact is profound. We are distributing, 

via our website and Facebook pages, spinal cord 

impairment-specific information to keep you safe and 

avoid becoming ill with the virus. I wish all our readers 

a healthy 2020 and, as always, invite you to contact me 

with any thoughts, ideas, and concerns or just to say “Hi”. 

Hope is the key that unlocks 

the door of possibility and 

people can find that hope in 

their heart.


Covid-19 

The Response of the NZST Team to a Global Pandemic. 

We are also thinking about 

our colleagues at the hospital 

and spinal units. They are the 

true heroes of this time. 

home. So, when the Government made the official 

announcement on Monday 23rd March, we put our plans 

into action. My team and I now continue to support our 

clients from our homes—we’re making the most of this 

highly connected world … Facebook, Zoom, Skype, email, 

the humble phone … you name it, we’re using it. 

A NZST meeting on Zoom where some of the 

finest hats were proudly on display. 

Our always humorous NZST CEO Hans 

Wouters has made sure everyone has kept 

their sanity and wellbeing intact during 

the lockdown. 

The team bought into a mindset of being grateful and, 

ironically, in many ways were better connected during 

isolation. In week one of the lockdown, Hans sent out a 

“battle plan” for the team which is below. What followed 

was a month of friendship, laughter, and some of the best 

hats you’ve ever seen on a Zoom call. Above all, there was 

a resounding feeling that we will get through this together. 

“Don’t panic Mr Mannering!” 

You may well have to be of a certain vintage to fully 

understand that reference, but the basic message 

stands—don’t panic. 

We are using all this technology to stay connected to each 

other as well—in uncertain times it is easy to hunker down 

and take self-isolation too far. We have a Zoom meeting 

permanently set up and we refer to it as our Zoom Lounge 

… we ‘meet’ there for coffee and a chat every working day. 

It is so popular some team members are even coming in on 

their days off. 

And we are also thinking about our colleagues at the 

hospital and spinal units. They are the true heroes of this 

time. Them and all the essential workers—many on 

minimum wage, yet willing to remain at their post so our 

country has a fighting chance of beating this pandemic. 

When you head out to pick up your essentials, please 

remember the danger they are exposing themselves to 

every single day. Treat them as the heroes they are. Thank 

them for their courage. And reward them with the 

kindness and compassion they deserve. 

We are all doing our bit to get our beloved country through 

this—some are having to do more than others. Let’s 

ensure their bravery is not wasted. 

Let’s stay home and save the world. 

Kia kaha, 

Hans Wouters 

NZ Spinal Trust CEO 

I feel a little like we have all joined the Home Guard—our 

job is to protect the vulnerable, the weak, the elderly, 

ourselves! … and defeat this virus. And to think we can do 

that with something as simple as staying home? Let’s not 

muck this up! How often do you get a chance to save lives 

by sitting on the couch watching telly? 

In the week before lockdown was introduced, we worked 

out our battle plan to ensure everyone could work from 

For all useful COVID-19 information for the SCI 

community visit: nzspinaltrust.org.nz/covid-19


An Army Making a 

World of Difference 

Volunteers—The Backbone of the New Zealand Spinal Trust. 

The key is making 

a difference. 

“I am amazed at their huge hearts, their kindness and 

compassion for others. Their patience, when working with 

others who sometimes don’t have the physical or mental 

ability to keep up. It is great to have so many volunteers 

with such a wide range of skills and experience that they 

can bring to help and support others who need it.” 

Rachael’s role managing the volunteer programme within 

Burwood Hospital is diverse and demanding. Among 

many other things, Rachael recruits and co-ordinates 

volunteers, designs the rosters, conducts orientation 

sessions and training, develops new roles and manages 

volunteer events. Just like her army of volunteers and, 

indeed, the entire team at the NZST, she loves rolling up 

her sleeves and doing whatever is necessary. 

Rachael Walker said it was nice for her team to be recognised at the 

Canterbury Volunteer Awards for the work they do for the Spinal Trust. 

Rachael Walker is constantly blown away by 

the kindness of the New Zealand Spinal 

Trust (NZST) Volunteer force. 

The volunteer service is jointly administered by the NZST 

and the Canterbury District Health Board (CDHB), with 

approximately 130 volunteers based at Burwood Hospital. 

Behind the scenes in the kitchen, in the Resource centre, 

in the garden, in the pool, and all spaces in between, the 

volunteers are there beavering away, giving their time and 

energy to the Trust. They all share a common bond of 

helping others. 

“The key is making a difference,” said Rachael, the 

Burwood Volunteer Co-ordinator. “It is why we have so 

many amazing volunteers that give so much of their time 

and energy, because they are making a difference. This is 

also prominent in our Burwood Volunteers by-line: 

”Helping People—Changing Lives”. Volunteers are 

looking for roles which are satisfying and worthwhile. 

“I love my job, no two days are the same, and we have so 

many people giving their time to support our work. We are 

forever grateful to them for their time. There is no doubt 

that we couldn’t do what we do every week without them.” 

Their efforts were recognised recently when they won an 

Appreciation Award at the Volunteering Canterbury Awards. 

“Part of my role involves co-ordinating external volunteers 

for the Employer Supported Volunteering, organised 

through Volunteering Canterbury,” explains Rachael. 

This involves a group of staff from a business, in which 

case, a company will be supported to complete a day of 

volunteering. Volunteering Canterbury matches a 

business/group with a project. 

“Some of the projects at Burwood have involved garden 

projects and painting. We provide any equipment needed 

and it is a good day for all involved.” 

Rachael said there are a huge number of benefits 

associated with the project, apart from connecting with 

the community and completing much-needed projects. 

For the business, it provides an opportunity for new 

experiences and a greater awareness of the needs of 

others. It’s a unique team-building experience, which 

encourages individuals to adopt action towards different 

attitudes towards inclusivity, compassion, and empathy.


“The end result is better employees, better individuals 

and better communities,” said Rachael. “The award was 

one of appreciation and recognition from Volunteering 

Canterbury for contributing to the above project.” 

However, volunteering is not just a one-off project at the 

Trust. The volunteers are the people who keep the place 

ticking over and give the Trust its heartbeat. 

What advice do you have for others who would like 

to volunteer? 

Think about what types of activity you enjoy, what skills 

and experience you have to offer, what causes are 

important to you, and how much time you would be 

willing to commit. Currently, at Burwood, we have 

vacancies for gardeners and pianists, your name can be 

added to our waiting list and we’ll contact you when an 

opening comes up. Also, visit: www.volunteeringnz.org.nz 

and www.seekvolunteer.co.nz. 

therapy dogs. The word KURI is the Māori word for an 

extinct Polynesian dog. Assistance dogs are a part of what 

they do at the dog centre. 

“I chose to volunteer for the Spinal Trust, as my partner’s 

mother was paralysed after a suicide attempt, when he 

was a child,” she said. 

“During her time in recovery at Burwood, she attempted 

again and succeeded. So, the mental health side of it all is 

very important to me, and I needed to do something to 

make a difference.” 

And she is making a difference. 

Shannon visits the Burwood Spinal Unit on a Thursday 

morning to catch up with a few special, regular patients 

with whom she is working, and meets a few new patients. 

“I usually just ‘go with the flow’. ‘Ellie’, the Lovehound 

Spaniel which I take in with me, seems to guide me 

towards who needs her the most”, she laughed. “We spend 

a couple of hours usually. She snuggles on the beds and 

loves to be stroked.” 

Shannon also works for Canine Friends, and she is busy 

rehabilitating her Mum, who suffered a stroke a few 

months ago. She said it is important for her to make the 

effort to help the NZ Spinal Trust. 

“The highlights are the patients’ and families’ smiles when 

they see Ellie, and seeing people recover and eventually 

leave hospital. I’m very proud to be part of this team.” 

She said there are some challenges with volunteering, 

such as finding the time and interesting things to say, and 

the right connections in conversations. 

However, she wouldn’t change it for the world, and said 

anyone who is able should try to support the Trust with 

their time. 

“I would advise anyone looking to volunteer to do so, as 

the loneliness and boredom can be very hard for some 

patients. Everyone enjoys company and you can make a 

difference just by being there. 

Shannon McGarry encourages anyone who is interested in being a 

volunteer to give it a go because “the loneliness and boredom can be 

very hard for some patients”. 

Shannon McGarry has a personal reason why 

she volunteers with the New Zealand Spinal 

Trust each week. 

The dog groomer and trainer/behaviourist became a 

volunteer two years ago, when she began taking therapy 

dogs into Burwood Hospital for a visit. 

The highlights are the 

patients’ and families’ 

smiles when they see 

Ellie, and seeing people 

recover and eventually 

leave hospital. 

She became involved with her work place ‘’KURI”, which 

is a dog centre that provides training in healthcare and


was ‘hired’ to push the book trolley around the various 

wards on Friday afternoons—with another volunteer—so 

patients could choose books and magazines to read. Some 

years later, age and creaking bones made me think twice 

about continuing that role. 

However, before the Allan Bean Centre was demolished, I 

had also helped people to acquire computer skills. Now, I 

help out on Thursday afternoons at the Resource Centre, 

doing whatever tasks Bernadette might leave me. These 

include enrolling new Library members, answering the 

telephone, filling the back-packs with various items given 

to Spinal Unit patients when they leave the Units, or 

helping staff and visitors with requests for books, CDs, 

DVDs or to use a laptop. 

I also keep the Spinal Network News archives up-to-date, 

so various articles and photographs from different issues 

can be uploaded to the NZST website. After each SNN 

issue is printed, along with other volunteers, I spend a fun 

morning putting address labels on envelopes and 

enclosing the latest issue of the Spinal Network News. We 

are ‘rewarded’ with coffee/tea and cakes! 

Jackie Grimshaw, a typically humble volunteer who 

works hard behind the scenes of the NZ Spinal Trust. 

Jacqueline Grimshaw—the proof-reader. 

When Bernadette Cassidy wrote and said she and Peter 

Thornton were keen to do an article about me in my role 

as a volunteer at the New Zealand Spinal Trust and proof 

reader for the Spinal Network News, I asked myself the 

question “Why me?” I am a volunteer doing work I enjoy. I 

was going to write “just a volunteer” but then decided no 

volunteer needed that kind of description. In New 

Zealand and elsewhere, many organisations would not 

survive without volunteers. 

The road to my present jobs has been a little adventurous, 

with life, my secretarial skills and a love of language 

taking me on a few different pathways. Before arriving in 

New Zealand in October 1971, I was educated and trained 

in the UK, and worked for two years at the UN in Italy 

before emigrating to Canada and then to NZ. 

Christchurch was always a favourite city so, when my 

partner, Ted, retired in 1990, we moved south from 

Auckland. I looked for paid employment, without success, 

so went volunteering with Age Concern Canterbury for 

about ten years. A friend then suggested becoming a 

member of SeniorNet Canterbury Inc. I was later elected 

to that organisation’s Committee and became a tutor—all 

voluntary. It was going along nicely until the 2011 

earthquake, when the Society lost its premises. 

Proof-reading the Spinal Network News has also educated 

me. Reading those personal stories of accidents and 

injuries sustained, plus the perseverance and strength 

required by the people involved to recover, has made me 

ask myself many times “Jack, what on earth are you 

complaining about…….?” 

The knowledge gained has not only ‘opened my eyes’ to 

the number and type of injuries people have sustained, it 

has also made me aware of the many financial hurdles the 

New Zealand Spinal Trust has to overcome to provide the 

services so needed in the community. 

Back in May 2019, I celebrated a milestone birthday and 

was surprised and quite overcome when, the following 

Thursday, I went as usual to join other staff for afternoon 

tea, only to find it was a birthday party! No cake would 

have been large enough for 80 candles, but I did manage 

to blow out the ones on my cake! 

Volunteering is just so rewarding; as well as helping the 

community in general or an organisation in particular, to 

volunteer gives much pleasure and satisfaction, plus an 

opportunity to meet people, have a laugh, and is my way 

of contributing to society while I still can. 

Volunteering is just 

so rewarding. 

Another friend then mentioned that a volunteer was 

needed for the Mobile Library at Burwood Hospital, so I 

spoke with Rachael Walker (Volunteer Co-ordinator), and


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A Man with no 

Boundaries 

Jezza Williams Recovered from a near Fatal Accident to Inspire 

others that Anything is Possible in Inclusive Tourism. 

Jezza Williams is a glass half full kind of guy and it has seen him create Inclusive 

Tourism company MakingTrax. Photo Credit: Attitude Awards. 

Jezza Williams is a man on a mission. 

The 43-year-old—Director of MakingTrax— 

is focused on changing the tourism industry 

in New Zealand. 

The self-confessed adrenalin junkie was recognised in 

December for his achievements, when he was awarded the 

Attitude Entrepreneur Award at the annual event in 

Auckland. In Jezza’s true down-to-earth style and 

manner, he has no interest in an individual accolade, but 

the award was confirmation of the ground-breaking work 

that MakingTrax has done. 

“Getting the award means the work we’re doing is quite 

important,” he said. “It means there is a need in this 

industry for something like what MakingTrax is doing, 

and it brings far more awareness about what inclusive 

tourism is and how we can create more and more 

opportunities for everybody in New Zealand.” 

The award celebrates a person with a disability who has 

developed his or her own business or social enterprise. 

Jezza certainly fits the bill. If ever there was someone to 

personify the power of positive thinking, Jezza is your 

man. Through his business, he educates tourism operators, 

and showcases how to make adventures accessible. 

“I call it ‘inclusive tourism’, not ‘accessible tourism’,” he 

said. “Accessibility is not about what we do. It’s beautiful 

that people have ramps and toilets etc., but that’s not 

what MakingTrax is about. It’s about the experience so, to 

make an experience possible, all you need is education, 

information, co-operation and when needed and only 

when needed, some adaption.” 

Getting the award means 

the work we’re doing is 

quite important.


Jezza is speaking from experience. He was working as a 

canyoning guide in Switzerland, when he slipped off a 

rock and sustained a spinal cord injury becoming a C5 

tetraplegic. 

He remembers that day well. Prior to his injury, Jezza 

worked all over the world as a river guide—on every 

continent, on every big river you can think of. 

He was also a canyon guide in the Swiss Alps. Canyoning 

is a sport where athletes traverse steep canyons from the 

top to the bottom of the canyon. “If we can jump it, we’ll 

jump it. If we can slide it, we’ll slide it. If we can’t do 

either, then we’ll repel,” he said. 

“I’ve been jumping off stuff since I was knee-high to a 

grasshopper. You push the limits when you’ve been doing 

this your whole life and, just one small error, one 

mistake…. One day I was at the top of the waterfall and 

went to do a big jump out and boom—instead of doing a 

beautiful superman dive—I ended up doing a lovely flip. I 

didn’t quite make what I needed to do, hit my head on the 

rocks on the way down and smashed my C5-C6. I didn’t 

just break them—I mean like shattered those monkeys— 

and then fell into the waterfall and was tumbled around, 

so I’m pretty bloody lucky to be alive really.” 

Jezza does not do hyperbole. He was lucky to be alive. He 

was rescued by REGA, the Swiss mountain rescue outfit, 

and was then admitted to a Swiss medical institute. 

Jezza had stared death in the face. He had a neardrowning 

experience, a collapsed lung seven times, he 

couldn’t breathe, and was in a coma for four weeks before 

his rehabilitation began. 

“My body couldn’t decide whether or not to kick in, but 

then it woke up slowly in intensive care in a Swiss 

rehabilitation centre. I was there for 11 months getting my 

shit together before coming back to NZ,” Jezza said in his 

matter-of-fact manner. 

He committed to his rehabilitation mentally and 

physically, and prepared himself for his new life in his 

“beautiful wheelchair”. Jezza has not looked back, 

turning his attention to helping others and making a 

difference in Aotearoa. 

Jezza, who has worked in adventure tourism for 20 years, 

said many outdoor companies don’t realise how simple it 

is to adapt an activity to a client, and that’s where 

MakingTrax comes in. 

“I’ve been an outdoors guy for over half my life. I had my 

accident in 2010 at the age of 35 so, obviously, with 

MakingTrax, I had more expertise in developing 

companies and developing the inclusive tourism 

movement.” 

MakingTrax founded the Directory of Inclusive Tourism, 

which contains all the information about the companies 

they work with. Therefore, people can read it to find out 

what is available and then make their own decision 

whether or not they would be suited to doing that activity. 

“For example, skydiving is very simple. We have harnesses 

that can bring the knees right up to the chest on landing 

and hold the legs together… in the past, landing was 

always dodgy, but now it’s extremely safe,” he said. 

“With paragliding we have the same thing. We have 

buggies for some companies. With the ski chair at 

Franz Josef, nobody was able to get out of the helicopter 

straight on to the glacier. So we made a ski chair, which 

is really simple. We just put skis on an old wheelchair 

we had. We also have rafting harnesses, so we can do 

Jezza Williams says helping people with a disability overcome their perception 

of what they can do is hugely rewarding. Photo Credit: Jezza Williams.


Taking Flight – “Seeing somebody think they can’t do something and then achieve 

it is ground-breaking,” said Jezza Williams. Photo Credit Jezza Williams. 

white-water rafting, multi-day trips, single-day trips, right 

up to class 3.” 

MakingTrax also trains the companies to attract 

clients—“If the company is part of the MakingTrax 

movement, they have me as their consultant, and they 

can contact me at any time if they need any information 

or if they need assistance with booking a client”. 

Jezza said it is about creating a destination. He is trying 

to gather as much information and attract as many 

companies as he can, and then build as much 

infrastructure as is required to make the industry 

complete. 

“As they say, ‘Build it and they will come.’ It’s like going 

back 50 years to when we first started, adventure tourism 

in NZ. We are doing exactly the same thing, but it’s 

inclusive.” The inclusive tourism industry is a world away 

from where it was at its inception in 2010. Jezza 

remembers trying to find some options—emailing, 

calling—and getting nowhere. 

“There wasn’t much available back then,” he said. “There 

was jetboating and bits and pieces, but there was nowhere 

for people to find it.” 

MakingTrax is changing all that. They give their seal of 

approval to the outdoor companies who deliver to a 

What we’re trying to do is 

make sure everybody can 

do the same things. 

certain standard. This links to the Inclusive Tourism 

Directory. Jezza describes this as similar to TripAdvisor 

but for an inclusive tourism market. 

“It’s definitely increasing, but it has a long way to go,” he 

said, summing up. “New Zealand still has issues, we still 

don’t have good public transport, and we still don’t have 

inclusive or accessible campervans. New Zealand is the 

campervan capital of the world but, even with all the big 

companies, none are accessible.” 

Jezza, a regular speaker at conferences and a conduit for 

Tourism New Zealand, wants to educate people. About one 

billion people worldwide have a disability; one in four 

Kiwis. There are 750,000 wheelchair users in the US alone. 

“What we’re trying to do is to make sure everybody can do 

the same things.” 

“There is a lack of knowledge in the industry. They are 

scared they might hurt somebody; they are scared 

something might go wrong; and they are too scared to 

make a decision for the client. In the bigger picture, if you 

took somebody on a trip to any of our superb activities in 

New Zealand, it would be safe and easy. It’s the same for 

someone who has a disability and for someone who hasn’t.” 

Jezza always tells people to go and check out wheelchair 

rugby to see what a body can handle, and it removes any 

misconceptions. 

“When people think about a disability, they have this 

thought which comes to mind, and it’s what society has 

shoved down their throats for years and years, and it’s not 

true. However, we’re getting there and, with a lot of work 

and an opening-up of the mind-set of the industry, we’re in.” 

Jezza said the moment when disabled people overcome 

their fear or their perceived limitations is incredible to 

experience first-hand.


Jezza Williams knows the work MakingTrax is doing in important. 

Photo Credit: Jezza Williams. 

“Oh! Man! It’s a very rewarding job what we are doing— 

giving people the opportunity to do something they never 

thought would be possible. It is probably one of the most 

amazing things about MakingTrax.” 

Jezza lights up when he talks about the experiences of 

young people and children. He recently took a boy, 

Hayden, who had Locked-in Syndrome, to Queenstown 

on an adventure. Hayden went on the canyon swing, did 

some aerobatic flights and all sorts of other crazy things. 

He also took Abi—a young tetraplegic from America— 

skydiving, canyon swinging and on a host of other 

activities. 

“Just seeing that transformation, seeing the spark in 

people’s eyes, seeing that they can really do these things, 

for me it’s massive. I am a C5 tetraplegic, you know; if I 

can do the activities, then anybody can do them.” 

Jezza believes the moment someone jumps out of a plane 

skydiving, or takes the leap-of-faith to go canyonswinging, 

it is a life-changing moment. Over-coming that 

fear changes their perspective of what is possible in their 

life ahead. 

“I think many people undervalue the possibility. It’s 

always the mind-set; everything is the mind-set. It 

doesn’t matter who you are. If you sit thinking about 

something that you’ve never experienced in your entire 

life, of course you will be anxious; you will worry about it 

and think, can I do this? 

“Seeing somebody think they can’t do something and 

then achieve it is incredible. They take that into their 

everyday life and the future with them. They won’t, in the 

future, say ‘I can’t do this!’ They’ll think, actually I’ve 

skydived, even though I thought it was pretty dangerous, 

or I’ve been rafting, for goodness sake, going down a Class 

3 rafting trip, it’s unbelievable. It blows me away and it 

amazes the industry, and that’s the best part about it. 

Seeing somebody think they 

can’t do something and then 

achieve it is incredible. 

That’s why I love showing the shock factor, showing what 

is really possible.” 

Jezza has advice for anyone who sustains an SCI. It gets 

easier. At the start it’s pretty overwhelming. So, just 

concentrate on small goals, which are achievable all the 

time and, when you’re looking at the bigger picture, it will 

blow you away what you’ll be able to achieve. Always look 

at the positives; always look at what you can do. At the 

start you’ve no idea; doctors aren’t God; they don’t 

understand; just believe in yourself because you know 

there are two ways to go—the hard way or the easy way. 

So, if you believe in yourself and believe in what’s 

possible, then you’ll blow your socks off at what you can 

achieve. I’ve achieved some pretty big things—I’ve done 

the Mongol Rally, 26,000kms; London to Mongolia and 

back through Russia. That was pretty epic. I’m also a 

licensed paraglider, so my two biggest fears after I had my 

injury were that I’d never travel again—and I love 

travelling—and the other was I wouldn’t be able to do a 

sport independently. I overcame both of them by 

believing I could. 

Things at Makingtrax have been quiet since Covid-19, 

however we are still operating behind the scenes. Very soon 

domestic travel will be available, and there are a vast 

amount of opportunities for people to get amongst the 

outdoor/ tourism sector.

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Telling it like it is 

Columnist Teina Boyd 

Teina was a patient in the Burwood Spinal 

Unit nearly six years ago. 

The down-to-earth Cantabrian was a recruit for the New 

Zealand Police when she fractured her neck at the C5 

vertebrae. It changed her life in an instant, but she has 

always displayed a never-say-die attitude. In her column 

this month, she recollects a lovely encounter with her 

10-year old son William. 

3.00 am... my door nudges open. One big eye looks at me 

through the crack. 

“You all right Mum?” 

Damn, my coughing must have woken him. 

I try to say “yes”, but the coughing is blocking my throat 

so, nodding, I cough...which turns into a spew. Closing my 

mouth tight, I fall forward, reaching for the end of my bed 

where the red bucket lives. Damn it. I pushed it too far 

away, as my attempt at escaping the smell without waking 

anyone up fails. 

DAMN... I can’t reach it. 

I was just about to open my mouth and spew on my 

blanket, when William ran over, pushing the bucket 

under my mouth just in time. 

With a yucky groan, I lifted my head to look at him… but 

he’s already walking off towards my en suite, unzipping 

his onesie. 

“Good catch Bubba, thank you”, I say quietly to his back. 

Closing my eyes, I feel around my body, while listening to 

William fussing around in the en suite. My stomach is still a 

little queasy. A few coughs are stuck in my throat, my nose 

is blocked, my ears are ringing, and my lungs are tired. 

Sweet, at least it’s improving. 

Poking my stomach gently, I can feel a few spasms sitting 

in there. Awesome… They’ll be helpful. 

Sitting myself up, I feel William standing next to me. 

All Smiles - Teina Boyd and her 10-year-old son 

William share a special bond. 

Looking at him, I try not to smile… He’s all gloved up in 

his undies holding a wet flannel. 

“Bub where are your ...” 

Before I can finish asking where his pyjamas are, he has 

covered my mouth with the flannel, wiping away the sick. 

As he pulls away, he wipes a trail of it into my eyebrow. 

He runs back to the en suite, throwing the flannel into the 

sink and shrieking about how yuck I am... while I’m 

laughing at him with one eye open. 

“Throw me the Huggies wipes baby, I’ll do it” 

The box literally hits my head and falls into my lap. As it 

hits my lap, it sets off a spasm, strengthening my 

diaphragm and pushing out the coughs stuck in my throat. 

Shocked, we look at each other and crack up laughing. 

So grateful for this beautiful 

boy, and this awkward, 

messy, laughing mess that is 

our life with disability. 

“I should be a doctor mum!” 

Laughing, I wipe my face with the Huggies wipes...”sure, 

you’ll fix all the flu, but you will cause a lot of brain 

injuries with that technique.” 

“One word, mum... helmets”. 

As I sputter through coughs and laughs, he tidies up the 

wipes, puts them in the bin and washes his hands.


“Can I sleep with you now, Mum?” 

He’s all zipped back into his onesie, looking hopeful. 

“Yeah babe, but grab yourself something from the 

treasure bag first”. 

His smile is huge, “Thanks Mum!” 

He sprints off down the hallway to find a treasure from his 

bag, and I know he’s pulled out a packet of Pokémon 

cards, when I hear his quiet “yusssss” 

Shuffling back to my room with his head down inspecting 

his haul, he climbs into bed with me and curls up at the 

other end of my bed with his head on my legs. 

Listening to him chatter away about his new shiny 

Pokémon and a legendary Pokémon, I start to fall asleep... 

until he jumps up and runs back to the bathroom. 

Beginning to sit up, I think the worst—I’ve made him sick. 

But no. Somehow, he’s just remembered that I will still be 

tasting vomit. He walks out of the bathroom with a tube 

of toothpaste and tells me to open up. 

“Oh wow, thanks babe!” 

Silence, as he squeezes it into my mouth with a huge grin. 

No place like home. 

“Is that another treasure bag mum?” 

Nodding at him with a toothpaste-filled smile, I can’t help 

but wonder if I’m raising a nurse or a hustler. 

So so so grateful for this beautiful boy, and this awkward, 

messy, laughing mess that is our life with disability... 

wouldn’t change it for the world. 

Thank you John Miller Law 

thousands of clients—they are well known for effective 

results in resolving accident compensation disputes from 

Tribunal Reviews right through to the Court of Appeal. As 

well as personal injury compensation matters, JML also 

specialises in Mental Health Law in the Wellington region. 

John Miller. 

In 2018 the SNN introduced ‘Your Rights with 

John Miller Law’ to our members. The aim of 

the section was so that people who have 

sustained an SCI could get expert legal 

advice for problems they may have. 

John Miller Law (JML) was founded in 2001 by New 

Zealand’s leading ACC law expert and former senior law 

lecturer at Victoria University. JML has represented 

Since 2018, JML have answered 

a number of your questions and 

provided practical advice. They 

are taking a break for 2020 - 

the SNN would like to 

wholeheartedly thank John 

Miller, Beatrix and the team for 

all their help and support over the 

last two years. 

You can still contact them directly for 

any specific queries: info@jmlaw.co.nz 

or (04) 801 5621. Alternatively you can 

contact the NZ Spinal Trust’s very 

own Ask Dr.B online information 

service. Please reach out to Dr. B 

for any information support you 

may need – email: bernadette. 

cassidy@nzspinaltrust.org.nz 

John Miller.


Man’s Best Friend 

Mobility Dogs Offer People with a Spinal Cord Impairment 

Huge Support and Companionship. 

Cuteness overload: Mobility Dogs place 10 -12 dogs each year. Photo credit Mobility Dogs. 

Mobility Dogs have the tagline “Life 

Changing Loyalty” and it is hard to 

disagree—there is nothing quite like the 

company of “man’s best friend”. 

Mobility Dogs are trained to offer practical support, 

companionship and security. They transform the lives of 

people living with disabilities. For many, a Mobility Dog is 

a step in the right direction to integrate back into society. 

Natalie Ramm, the Senior Canine Coordinator for 

Mobility Dogs, has worked for the Charitable Trust for the 

past 16 years as a volunteer, part-time and now full-time. 

We caught up with Natalie to discuss how people who 

have sustained a spinal cord impairment could sign up for 

a Mobility Dog and how their new companion could 

change their lives. 

What are the benefits of having a Mobility Dog? 

When thinking about a Mobility Dog people often 

recognise the physical benefits or tasks, with which they 

can assist, but there are many secondary benefits we tend 

to overlook. Many clients report feeling a sense of loyalty 

and companionship, less isolated and a greater level of 

independence with their Mobility Dog. We also know dogs 

aid in overall health and well-being and increasing 

participation in activities with our dogs. 

How does the process work in terms of signing up? 

For anyone interested in applying for a Mobility Dog they 

can visit our website and click on Apply Now. They will be 

given the option of applying online or sending us an 

initial email to find out more. One of our team will then 

be in touch. 

The best part is 

witnessing and knowing 

that our dogs truly make 

a difference.


What is the best part about your job? 

The best part is witnessing and knowing our dogs do 

really make a difference. Our clients find a best friend 

and, together, they create greater independence and 

access within the community. 

How did you first become involved with Mobility Dogs? 

As cliché as it sounds, one day I saw an Oprah Winfrey 

show about Mobility Dogs in America. The difference 

dogs were making touched me, and lit a spark at a time 

when I was learning to live with and manage depression 

and anxiety. The rest, as, they say is history. I contacted a 

number of people trying to set up Mobility Dogs in New 

Zealand and, slowly, I found my passion as the Trust’s 

vision became a reality. 

How can the dog be of assistance to someone with 

spinal cord impairment? 

Our dogs are trained to assist at home and in the 

community. They retrieve and carry items, open doors, 

press buttons and alert someone should the client need 

assistance. Our dogs are trained to work beside people 

using a manual or power chair, and can be trained to 

assist with wheelchair-pulling and to provide assistance 

with transfers for some. 

How many dogs are available compared with the 

demand for them? 

The waiting time, once an applicant has completed the 

process and has been accepted, is between six and 18 

months. We place 10 – 12 dogs each year, and the demand 

for a trained Mobility Dog is continuing to grow. 

Above and below: The Mobility Dogs give people with a spinal cord 

impairment the confidence to live a full life. 

What advice do you offer people with spinal cord 

impairment who are considering a Mobility Dog? 

My best piece of advice is to contact us. There is no 

commitment when applying, and we appreciate people 

asking questions about the dogs, the process, how a 

trained dog can help them and what is involved. Keep in 

mind that having a Mobility Dog in your life is a 

wonderful and rewarding experience. However, the 

timing has to be right. We would recommend 12 – 18 

months after a significant spinal cord injury. This allows 

time for the person applying for a dog to adjust to their 

new circumstances. The dogs require routine and 

consistency. This is best achieved when everything is in 

place and a routine established. 

What advice would you give people on the street when 

Mobility Dogs are around? 

My advice would be: please do not distract the dogs when 

they are training or working to pass their public access 

assessments and, for the safety of the team and public, 

our dogs must ignore any and all distractions. The public 

can really help by resisting their desire to make eye 

contact, speak to, whistle or in any way distract the dogs. 

For more information visit: www.mobilitydogs.co.nz.


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Empathy and Grit 

Gavin Rolton considers himself a Normal Kiwi Bloke—he is 

showing that a Disability does not Define who you are. 

Gavin Rolton says being an open person has helped him in his 

role with Drake Medox. Photo Credit: Attitude Awards. 

There is no doubt that Gavin Rolton was a 

deserving winner of the Attitude Employee 

Award in December. 

The Wellingtonian, who had not worked for nine years 

after being paralysed in a diving accident, was hired by 

healthcare company Drake Medox in 2014. He has proved 

a fast learner and was recently promoted to Sales 

Manager. Gavin, the captain of the Wheel Blacks, New 

Zealand’s wheelchair rugby team, is now among the 

company’s top performers as the Manager of Drake Medox 

Wellington and Palmerston North. “Gavin’s secret for 

success is empathy and grit,” said his citation for his 

Attitude Award, and showing people that a disability does 

not have to define what you are capable of. We caught up 

with the 36-year-old from Waikanae on his recovery and 

his never-say-die attitude. 

What did it mean to win the Attitude Employee Award 

in December? What was it like to be called “an 

inspiration for others”? 

There are so many people out there doing great work, so it 

was fantastic to be acknowledged for the work I’ve been 

doing, I feel like I’m just living my life and don’t really 

consider myself an inspiration. 

Tell me about your role at Drake Medox, what does 

it involve? 

We recruit caregivers for people with a range of different 

disabilities, specialising in high needs in home care, it’s a 

diverse role. 

Your bio on Attitude said you were instrumental in 

developing a culture of diversity and empathy, how 

did you do that? 

I’m a pretty open person and don’t mind sharing my 

experiences, this has developed our team to get a good 

understanding of clients’ needs. 

You struggled at first to find a role post-accident, 

could you explain what those times were like? 

I started out slowly and enrolled in some study. The study 

I did, that didn’t eventuate into work in that particular 

field, but helped me develop some good routines and 

social skills which helped with confidence down the track. 

What were the keys to you finding employment? 

Through playing Wheelchair rugby—Dan Buckingham came 

to training to ask if anyone was interested in work, as Gay 

Barton from Drake Medox had contacted Attitude seeing if 

they knew anyone after work. I was really lucky, and didn’t


Gavin Rolton says it was a huge honour 

being recognised at the Attitude Awards. 

know anything about recruitment, and it’s resulted in a 

career. I’ve had great help from others along the way though, 

sometimes, I just have to ask. I have a great employer and 

team, which has definitely helped me succeed. 

What was your job before your accident? 

I was a tradesman, furniture making, always worked with 

my hands, it’s been a big adjustment, changing my mindset. 

Take me back to the day of your accident what 

happened, and how well do you remember it? 

I dived into a river that was very shallow, breaking my 

neck. I was lucky that one of my mates noticed early that 

something wasn’t right, as I was face down and running 

out of air. I knew instantly what had happened and told 

my mate I would never walk again. Once I got to hospital, 

it all turned very hectic and a doctor confirmed my initial 

prognosis. Bang! My life changed in an instant. 

What was your rehabilitation like? 

I made the most of my time at the Spinal Unit. I feel I kept a 

positive attitude and wanted to make the most of learning 

the new skills I’d need to work towards a level of 

independence. The real rehabilitation starts at home, and I 

learnt a lot of tips and techniques from guys at Wheelchair 

Rugby. I had my frustrations, as I was really impatient, and 

it took years to get to reach where I wanted to get. 

You have taken on a role as a leader, what do you enjoy 

about that role? 

I enjoy the challenges and problem solving. We are a small 

team and I see myself as an equal. I think a good leader 

utilises everyone’s individual skills. 

I made the most of my time 

at the Spinal Unit, I feel I 

kept a positive attitude and 

wanted to make the most of 

learning the new skills I’d 

need to work towards a level 

of independence. 

What advice would you offer to others who have 

sustained a spinal cord impairment and are looking 

to get back into work? 

Just go get out there and try something. You’ll be amazed 

what opportunities arise. Work has brought a good 

balance and normality to my life, and the money in my 

pocket definitely helps. 

During the lockdown, we’ve kept in touch with clients and 

caregivers sending out E-blasts, texts and calls, we have 

limited a caregiver to only work with one client instead of 

multiple clients to keep bubbles as small as possible and 

reiterated the importance of good hygiene, infection control 

and hand washing.

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Sit Down in Front 

The Remarkable story of the Attitude Supreme Award Winner. 

Cory Newman and his mates loved performing at the Attitude Awards. 

Photo Credit: Attitude Awards. 

Charismatic punk rocker, Cory Newman, was 

proud to claim the Supreme Award at the 

Attitude Awards in December. 

Now in its 12th year, the black-tie gala event celebrates the 

achievements and successes of New Zealanders living 

with disabilities. 

“This was the last thing I expected,” said Cory, on 

receiving the Supreme Award. “I’m completely and utterly 

humbled. Who would have thought that a guy in a 

wheelchair, from a tiny country town, would get to 

experience this? I certainly didn’t!” 

Gisborne-raised Cory (16) was born prematurely and has 

cerebral palsy, epilepsy and ADHD. 

Two years ago, Cory followed his dreams and formed a 

band with his high school friends—Sit Down In Front—of 

which Cory is the lead singer. 

In one of the toughest industries to crack into, Cory and 

his band have erupted on to the local and international 

music scene. They were placed third at the national 

SmokeFree RockQuest and caught the attention of music 

legend Jimmy Barnes, who invited them to open for his 

band on a recent national tour. 

In a touching moment at the Attitude Awards 

celebrations, a video message from Jimmy congratulating 

Cory was played to the audience. 

The high-energy band also performed at the ceremony to 

an audience of 650 New Zealanders, which included 

many prominent figures from the disability sector. 

In addition to Cory’s success with his band, he has excelled 

at school, having won awards for academic excellence and 

leadership, becoming House Captain in Year 9. 

Cory has also completed school cross-country events, 

athletics days, school swimming sports and participated 

in Kapa Haka groups and a Polynesian club. 

“Cory is what we aspire to,” said Attitude Trust Chairperson, 

Dan Buckingham. “Someone who lives with disability and 

lives the fullest of lives. He has high expectations of himself, 

and for those around him to be included in all the activities 

with which his peers are involved. 

“However, he has gone above merely being involved... he’s 

excelled in all his pursuits, whether they be academic, 

sports, cultural, performance or the arts.” 

Principal sponsor, ACC Chief Executive, Scott Pickering, 

said the achievements of this year’s finalists are 

impressive: “They are proof of what the power of attitude 

is achieving.”


No Ordinary Guy 

A Q and A with Guy Harrison at the NZ All Abilities Championship. 

Guy Harrison, who suffers from Cerebral Palsy, 

plays off an 8.1 handicap at the Napier Golf Club. 

If you were looking for a young man to 

personify the meaning of resilience, then 

Guy Harrison would be your man. 

The 18-year-old from Hawke’s Bay has overcome more 

challenges than most in his life. Throughout it all, he has 

displayed a courageous spirit which has never waned. 

When he was three years old, Guy had a febrile 

convulsion, which saw him die for 12 minutes before 

being resuscitated. When he revived, Guy had to get used 

to life with Cerebral Palsy, which has affected his whole 

body. Throughout the struggles, Guy has been raised to 

see what he can do, rather than what he can’t. One step at 

a time, Guy has set his mind to each task and achieved 

some remarkable things. 

He took up golf at the age of five, after his physiotherapist 

advised he should get into a sport with low contact and 

plenty of walking. He now plays on an 8.1 handicap at the 

Napier Golf Club. 

Guy is currently studying for a Bachelor of Sport and 

Recreation degree at the Eastern Institute of Technology 

(EIT). He also holds down two part-time jobs, one being 

the barman at a local sports club and the other working at 

a local pub. Recently, he competed in the inaugural NZ 

Golf All Abilities Championship in Queenstown—a 

tournament that was made possible thanks to funding 

from Sport NZ and support from the Halberg Foundation. 

We recently met with Guy to talk about his remarkable 

journey and how golf changed his life. 

Take us back to the beginning, how hard was the 

rehab, both mentally and physically? 

Because I was so young when I had the febrile convulsion, 

this is the way I am, and I don’t know anything different. 

Rehab has been a lifelong process, since the febrile 

convulsion, and will be needed for the rest of my life. As I 

was only three when it occurred, I do not have any 

memories which have not included rehab. I had to learn 

lots of skills I previously had all over again, such as 

walking, talking and simple things, like feeding myself, 

were suddenly difficult. 

I had very little stability, and found I was falling over and 

breaking bones. I could not communicate with Mum and


Dad and others, which I found very frustrating. People 

did not understand what I wanted or needed. 

What was unbelievable, was that I was not diagnosed 

until years later, as my parents were told by doctors, “He 

is a boy, he is rushing like they do, and he will speak when 

he wants to”. Both being teachers, they knew something 

was not right, so they kept pushing for me to be seen at 

the Children’s Development Centre, and they started with 

rehab in the pool, paying for speech therapy and spending 

hours helping me to re-learn things. 

Once I was diagnosed, things started to happen. I was 

given weekly physio and occupational therapy sessions, 

both in the pool and in hospital. I started school and my 

teacher, through the MOE, arranged for speech therapy 

through school and teacher-aide support in my first year 

of education. Imagine trying to learn to read, when you 

cannot speak properly, as the muscles in my mouth did 

not work due to the Cerebral Palsy. When I started school, 

I had to learn to write and couldn’t even hold a pencil. I 

found the frustration difficult and this did greatly affect 

how I felt about myself. However, with support from my 

parents, paediatrician and the school, we developed 

strategies to help with this feeling of frustration. 

My parents had discovered that work in the pool helped 

my whole physical being, and so two sessions a week of 

swimming are on my weekly agenda. It helps keep me 

mobile and strengthens my core. 

My parents were told that I needed to walk long distances 

as part of my rehab and, for a young four-year old, that 

was not that enjoyable. So my Dad, who was a PE teacher, 

came up with the idea of taking me to the local nine-hole 

family golf course. He thought with it being a sport and 

by making it fun, I would get the walking distance I 

needed to strengthen my legs and the golf would help 

with other things, like my balance. 

Presently, due to being so active in running, badminton 

and golf, most of my rehab is done with my coaches in 

these three sports. I continue with the swimming each 

week and have a weekly massage to help with the 

constant pain in my legs, and work in the gym. 

I started off just wanting to 

beat my Dad, and now I have 

other goals like, hopefully, 

one day representing NZ in 

golf at the Paralympics. 

Guy said one of the highlights of playing in the tournament 

was meeting All Blacks first five eighth Beauden Barrett. 

You were three years old when you had the seizure 

—do you remember anything about it or the time in 

hospital? 

It was the night before my third birthday, so I don’t 

remember. Dad says it was horrible watching the medical 

staff trying to revive me. He thought I was gone, even 

though he had given me CPR in the car on the way to the 

hospital. Over the next few days I had more seizures, but 

none as strong as the first one, so it was a very stressful time. 

Mum and Dad couldn’t relax in case I had another one. 

When you first started playing golf at five, was it hard 

going to the club? 

I started at the local nine-hole family course and the 

people were fantastic. Once they knew why we were going 

and playing most days, they helped me with getting clubs 

and a trundler, and kept the price down for Mum and Dad. 

A coach was assigned from the main course next door, 

and he helped me to develop my swing and supported me 

until he left the club. I developed good co-ordination and 

loved it when I hit the ball well, and wanted to do this 

more and more. I really liked the putting and would 

practise this for hours. 

What do you enjoy about the game of golf? 

Meeting people and playing new golf courses. It is a really 

good way to see the country, and I have learnt lots about 

the geography of our country. I started off just wanting to 

beat my Dad, and now I have other goals like, hopefully, 

one day representing NZ in golf at the Paralympics.


The NZ All Abilities Golf Championship was run by New Zealand Golf thanks to funding from Sport NZ. 

...yes I have Cerebral Palsy, 

but it is no excuse not to reach 

my full potential in life. 

What is the strongest part of your game? 

My mental side, my ability to stay calm and focused. 

Scrambling to recover after a bad shot. People say this is 

what I am good at, too. 

How did playing golf help you in the early years, when 

you were just starting to walk? 

The golf was a game. For me this appealed, being a little 

kid, and it was something I did with my Dad. I did not 

realise at the time it was rehab and its importance it was 

playing in my life. 

How much have your parents in helped you over the 

years? Have they instilled that belief in you? 

Mum and Dad have been great. They have helped me 

understand who I am and that ‘yes I have Cerebral Palsy, 

but it is no excuse not to reach my full potential in life’. 

They have instilled in my sister and me the importance of 

perseverance, and not giving in when it gets tough. 

Mum gave up work, when I needed the extra help, and she 

spent many hours waiting at hospital appointments, pool 

and therapy sessions, and both Dad and she have spent so 

many hours helping me with all my rehab, school work 

and all the things associated with having CP. 

Dad has been a rock, taking me wherever I needed to be 

and supporting me in my sporting dreams. When things 

are getting tough, he is there and says what is needed to 

stop me feeling sorry for myself. I will always treasure the 

wonderful trips and experiences we have had. 

Now the focus has changed a little, and it is on the 

importance of ‘giving back’, which I am doing locally by 

supporting other disabled people and being a ‘NZ Halberg 

Ambassador’. 

What was the highlight of playing in the NZ All 

Abilities Championship at the NZ Open? 

Playing at three of the top golf courses in New Zealand 

and being part of the inaugural All Abilities tournament. 

Also, meeting other inspirational people such as caddy, 

Steve Williams, and All Black, Beauden Barrett, was 

pretty cool. 

Does playing in such a tournament give you the 

confidence to believe that anything is possible? 

Yes, and it was just another wonderful opportunity and 

experience for me, as I don’t know how long my body is 

going to allow me to do this, so I want to make the most of 

every opportunity. 

What advice do you offer others who have sustained a 

spinal cord impairment? 

Anything is possible; don’t give up; follow your dreams 

and focus on the positive, no matter how small it is. There 

are lots of people out there who will help, you just have to 

ask, and you are not alone. 

The NZ All Abilities Golf Championship was run by New 

Zealand Golf thanks to funding from Sport NZ and support 

from the Halberg Foundation. Sport NZ is the largest 

recipient of Lotto NZ funding.


NZ Spinal Cord Impairment Stats 

So how many people acquire spinal cord 

impairment each year in NZ? 

Working in the spinal cord impaired community, it is a 

question more often asked than not, and the answers 

vary greatly. 

Hans Wouters, the CEO of the NZ Spinal Trust, says that, 

over the years, he has heard some extraordinary statistics 

regarding the occurrence of spinal cord impairment in 

New Zealand. 

“In some cases, I have questioned the messenger and have 

heard back ‘not sure where that information came from’,” 

he said. “I often found it was not even close to what I was 

saying.” Now, with the help of the NZ Spinal Cord Injury 

Registry (NZSCIR) that scenario all changes. We can all 

share the correct statistics and make sure the right 

information is being issued. 

Key Facts 

‘Current Statistics’ year ending 2018 (released Feb 2020): 

• There are just over 200 new spinal cord impairments in 

New Zealand each year, around four each week. 

Two-thirds are traumatic and one-third non-traumatic. 

Traumatic Facts (excluding non-traumatic numbers) 

• Common Traumatic causes are: Falls (39%); Transport 

(30%); Sports (18%); Other (13%) 

• 75% of all traumatic are males; 25% female 

• Two-thirds result in tetraplegia; one third in paraplegia 

• 30% of Sports are Water Sports/Activities; 22% 

Equestrian; 19% Mountain Biking/Cycling 

Non- Traumatic Facts 

• One-third are female; Two-thirds are male 

• One quarter results in tetraplegia; Three-quarters 

in paraplegia 

“When we present to groups or answer questions on spinal 

cord impairment, we should all refer to these accurate facts 

captured by the dedicated people at NZSCIR.” 

For more information visit: nzspinaltrust.org.nz/nzscir 

Length of Stay in Hospital (Median) 

• Paraplegics – 69 days / Tetraplegics – 74 days 

NB: Length of stay ranges from two days to 258 days. AISA 

A tend to stay longer than incomplete. 

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www.freedommobility.co.nz


Resource 

Centre 

New Additions – May 2020 

The Invisible Load: a guide to 

overcoming stress and overwhelm 

by Libby Weaver, 2019 

The Very Alternative Guide to 

Spinal Cord Injury 

by Anthony Papathomas & Joe 

Robinson, 2015 

The guide is a research-based 

self-help book that uses humour, real 

life quotes and illustrations to 

communicate important health 

information and ideas in an engaging 

and entertaining way. 

It is primarily designed to support 

people with spinal cord injuries as 

well as their family and friends. It 

would also be useful to health 

professionals looking for accessible 

ways to educate patients on life with a 

spinal injury. 

The Invisible Load examines the day 

to day stress that a lot of us 

experience. Dr Libby isn’t talking 

about trauma, but about the 

day-to-day, moment-to-moment 

stress that can cause people to feel 

overwhelmed. She has a simple 

example in the book that explains it 

well: you walk past a stack of dishes 

in your kitchen. If you aren’t 

stressed, you will think it’s just a few 

dishes, but if you are already feeling 

overwhelmed, you might have a 

response like, ‘I can’t keep doing this, 

everything is falling apart!’ In the 

book, Dr Libby really helps you dig 

down and understand what is at the 

heart of your stress. 

Māori Healing Remedies: 

Rongoa Māori 

by Murdoch Riley, 2018 

This is a useful book with time-tested 

Maori herbal therapies, the book is a 

useful compendium of proven 

therapies, whether for arthritis, 

headaches, insect bites, rheumatism, 

skin complaints, sore throats, 

sprains, wounds etc. Using beautiful 

photography by Phil Bendle the 

images identify many of the 

indigenous plants used by Maori. 

Journals/magazines 

Forward UK SCI magazine 

Issue 154 Dec 2019 

Forward UK SCI magazine 

Issue 155 Feb 2020 

Nadia: Health & wellbeing magazine 

Issue 20 Jan/Feb 2020 

Nadia: Health & Wellbeing magazine 

Issue 21 Feb/Mar 2020 

New Mobility: Spinal cord injury 

complications 

Issue 315 Dec 2019 

New Mobility: Person of the Year 

Issue 316 Jan 2020 

New Mobility: Sex, Wheels & 

Relationships 

Issue 317 Feb 2020 

Spinal Network News 

vol 22 issue 3 Dec 2019 

Sports n Spokes 

vol. 46 no. 1 Jan 2020


Life as a Casketeer: what the 

business of death can teach 

the living 

by Francis and Kaiora Tipene, 2019 

Life as a Casketeer reveals how 

Francis and Kaiora grew up in 

families that had few possessions but 

were rich with love and tikanga, and 

how they came to work in their often 

misunderstood profession. It’s also a 

book about the Maori world view and 

traditional funeral customs. The 

Tipenes make death feel less 

mysterious and life feel more 

precious. 

The Heroic Client: a revolutionary 

way to improve effectiveness 

through client-directed, 

outcome-informed therapy 

by Barry L. Duncan, Scott D. Miller 

and Jacqueline A. Sparks (revised 

edition, 2004) 

The approach in this book advocates 

for the client’s voice in all aspects of 

therapy and shows how to tailor both 

relational stances and treatment 

approaches to each client’s personal 

goals. Based on clinical research and 

field-tested experience, this book 

seeks to challenge therapists to 

rethink the process of therapy, recast 

clients in their rightful roles as 

heroes and heroines in their own 

therapy, and help therapists establish 

an approach beyond the limits of the 

medical model. 

How to Talk to Absolutely Anyone: 

confident communication for 

work, life and relationships 

by Mark Rhodes, 2017 (2nd edition) 

How to Talk to Absolutely Anyone is 

your personal handbook for stepping 

up your communication game. Part 

confidence coach and part social 

manual, this book reveals the 

reasons behind your reserve and 

offers real, practical ways to break 

through the barriers and make a 

connection. This new second edition 

has been updated to include the 

complete 30-day Zero to Hero 

Personal Confidence Course, to help 

you build your skills and increase 

your chances of getting what you 

want out of any conversation. 

Contact Bernadette Cassidy for more information 

bernadette.cassidy@nzspinaltrust.org.nz 03 383 9484 

All the listed items are 

available to loan from: 

The Resource Centre 

Burwood Hospital 

Covid-19: 

Due to the COVID-19 crisis the staff of the NZ Spinal Trust are working 

remotely effective from the 23 March 2020.


Ageing with a Spinal 

Cord Impairment 

You can’t beat Father Time, but here is some helpful information from 

Burwood Spinal Unit Clinical Nurse Specialist, Lynn James. 

Lynn James, Clinical Nurse Specialist and Dr. Bernadette Cassidy 

An individual with Spinal Cord Impairment 

(SCI) has many needs which may change over 

the course of their life. 

In the 1950s/1960s the life expectancy of someone with 

tetraplegia could be as little as a few weeks, whilst 

someone with paraplegia could live for a few months, 

(Anthony, 2002). A sobering thought given that, 

nowadays, thanks to medical advances, extra vigilance, 

regular screening and monitoring, there is no reason why 

someone with SCI cannot live as full and as long a life as 

someone without an SCI. 

The ‘early days’ post injury and during rehabilitation is 

the pivotal time for education and to ensure people are 

Pressure injuries are 

unfortunately a common 

secondary complication of 

SCI, regardless of age. 

fully armed with as much knowledge and self-care advice 

to continue their life as independently as possible. 

The self-titled group of ‘oldies’ (wheelchair user for over 

10 years) comes with a huge catalogue of knowledge and 

self-care tips which are invaluable to the individuals with 

newer injuries starting their rehabilitation journey. Their 

lived journey advice is so important and must be shared. 

It is difficult to cover all aspects of this topic within this 

article. However, an outline of some of the areas, which 

are shown to be affected more rapidly, are related to 

ageing within the SCI community. Hopefully, this will be 

an interesting start for further articles to follow. 

Insensate skin and the ageing process 

Pressure injuries are unfortunately a common secondary 

complication of SCI, regardless of age. As a person ages, 

skin loses collagen, becomes more dry and fragile and, 

therefore, more susceptible to injury. Alongside less 

activity due to fatigue, and issues with transfers due to 

reduced upper limb strength, there is more risk to 

developing a pressure injury. Skin management following 

SCI is, from day 1, paramount to ensure healthy skin is 

maintained throughout one’s life. It’s not just ‘pressure 

about pressure’. The Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) will 

educate about the risk of burns, controlling the 

temperature in the shower, sun burn, not having hot 

drinks on the lap, appropriate fitting footwear and


clothing, plus adequate nutritional intake, smoking 

cessation or reduction! We advise trying to keep the skin 

clean and dry, to continue with regular pressure relief and 

skin checks, and to take timely action when any red areas 

appear. This may mean a period of bedrest. Periodic 

reviews of cushions, seating systems and transfer 

techniques can all be captured on Clinic or Outreach 

appointments. 

Bowel, Bladder and Kidney Health 

Kidney and bladder dysfunction was once the major cause 

of death for anyone with SCI. (Singhal, Anthony, A, Xiong 

and Acland, 2016). Current medical practices, which 

include frequent screening, such as ultrasound and other 

urodynamic studies, have kept this number to a 

minimum. However, life-long monitoring of kidney and 

bladder health is essential. Urinary tract infections 

(UTIs), bladder or kidney stones are common, due to 

in-dwelling medical devices, calcium build-up and 

inactivity, to name but a few. 

Bowel dysfunction is common in SCI regardless of age, 

requiring anything from aperients to physical assistance 

to empty the bowel with suppositories, enemas or 

trans-anal irrigation and elective colostomy. Bowel cares 

can take up to two hours to complete in some individuals, 

which not only interrupts their daily life, but also 

contributes to fatigue levels. As the person ages, bowels 

become ‘lazy’ and sluggish, requiring more and more 

intervention. There is a significant risk of them 

developing megacolon. (Singhal et.al, 2016). 

Bone Health and Heightened Risk of Fractures 

Due to a natural reduction in bone density as we age, 

osteoporosis is significant. The SCI cohorts are at risk of 

more severe bone fractures, following what would be 

deemed a relatively minor fall or insult to the leg, and can 

have a delayed presentation due to altered pain feedback 

due to SCI. If there is indeed a fracture, plaster casts can 

be a problem due to risk of underlying pressure areas. It is 

necessary to have the plaster cast changed to a bi-valve cast 

so the skin can be checked underneath at least once a day. 

Bone density testing is widely recommended for 

post-menopausal women, people who have a history of 

fractures, or if a patient is considering standing practice 

after a considerable time in a chair. (MASCIP, 2010). 

Shoulder Injury and Pain 

Shoulder injuries, due to over use, are also common 

following spinal cord injury. Transfers, mobility, and 

self-care all rely on some upper limb strength. As 

someone ages, their muscle strength will naturally 

decline. This can lead to trouble with transfers and using 

a self-propelled wheelchair. Pain and trauma are 

sometimes unavoidable, but these can have a devastating 

impact on the independence of an individual. If this leads 

to a reduced level of independence, there may be more 

expectation for the spouse of the family member to assist 

with transfers, causing more pressure on their bodies and 

possible injury, impacting on carer burden. 

Diet 

Weight loss or weight gain throughout life can impact on 

our group of patients. Weight loss can be an obvious sign of 

poor nutrition, perhaps depressive or pain-related in 

presentation, and can lead to a whole range of other 

concerns which need to be investigated. Weight gain is 

common, due to inactivity, loss of trunk muscle and less 

energy expenditure. Both can present challenges with 

wheelchair sizes, positioning, transfers and risk of pressure 

injuries. Advice could be sought from a dietician for 

guidance on living and eating well with an SCI, if 

prominent weight loss or weight gain is becoming an issue. 

Fatigue 

Fatigue impacts on someone with a SCI significantly, and 

can accelerate the longer they are post- injury. This has a 

huge impact on their ability to be independent, 

physically, emotionally and financially. A person with a 

relatively high level of spinal cord injury may have been 

reasonably independent throughout their life but, as they 

age, they may not recover from illnesses quite as quickly, 

and require some carer input at home. 

Respiratory Function 

Individuals with higher levels of spinal cord injury are at 

a higher risk of chest infections and pneumonias. This is 

due to the inability to take in deep breaths and reduced 

quality of cough due to diaphragmatic involvement at 

level of injury. 

There is also a high incidence of sleep apnoea with 

tetraplegics, who may require a sleep study to be carried 

out and are highly likely to require CPAP overnight for 

this. Untreated sleep apnoea can lead to cognitive 

changes, fatigue etc. Yearly flu vaccinations are not 

compulsory but are certainly recommended, especially 

for people with high thoracic injuries and cervical injuries 

with neurological deficit. (Singhal, 2020). 

Well-being 

It is recommended that someone with SCI continues with 

health checks appropriate to their age, mammograms, 

smear checks, prostate checks, cholesterol, blood sugar etc. 

References: 

Anthony, A. (2002). Ageing and Spinal Injury. Spinal 

Network News. Volume 5, No 2. 

MASCIP (2010) – Management of the older person with a 

new spinal cord injury: Good Practice guidance. Accessed 

February 2020. 

Singhal, R, Anthony, A, Xiong, X and Acland, R. (2016). 

Ageing in Spinal Cord Injury. New Zealand Medical 

Journal Jul 15; 129(1438):8-11. 

Singhal, R (2020). Verbal communication regarding Flu 

vaccination.


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Thank you to our 

Funders & Sponsors 

The New Zealand Spinal Trust appreciates the generous support of the following 

funders. Without their kind support, the Trust would not be able to deliver the 

variety of services to assist clients to live independent lives right now. 

Permobil is a global leader with over 50 years experience 

in providing advanced medical technology and 

state-of-the-art healthcare solutions. Today, those 

solutions include the sale and rental of power wheel 

chairs, manual wheelchairs, power assist and seating & 

positioning products. 

Healthvision NZ 

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Charitable Trust 

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