SNN_December 2022 Issue_web low res

December 2022 

Volume 25 / Issue 3 

Te Tarahiti Manaaki Tuanui 

SNNSpinal Network News 

CATCHING FEELINGS— 

BRYCE DINNEEN ON THE 

WISH4FISH BOAT 

PEER AND WHĀNAU 

SUPPORT—WE LOOK BACK ON 

A SUCCESSFUL FIRST YEAR 

ROXY'S INCREDIBLE 

EFFORT TO SUPPORT 

THE NZST 

Finding 

peace with 

my injury 

Brad Smeele on 

owning his story

NEW ZEALAND SPINAL TRUST 2 

Contents 

3 

An Enduring Feeling of Guilt 

Editorial 

23 

Disability in the Cook Islands 

Zahra Shahtahmasebi's experience in Rarotonga 

5 

Supporting Positive Futures 

Hans Wouters—CEO NZ Spinal Trust 

25 

Meet Our Team 

Dr Bernadette Cassidy on a lifetime of service 

7 

Hitting the Back of the Net 

The Peer and Whānau Support investment 

28 

The Great Summer Road-trip 

NZ's top 10 accessible hotels 

12 

Embracing Vulnerability 

Brad Smeele on writing his first book 

31 

Hospital 

Hamish Ramsden’s column 

15 

Book Review—Owning It 

We review Brad Smeele’s book 

33 

Preparing the Ground for Return-to-work 

Burwood Academy Trust update 

16 

What Roxy Did 

An incredible effort from Roxy Shahtahmasebi 

35 

Funders and Sponsors 

20 

One Man’s Dream Becomes a Reality 

Bryce Dinneen on funding a multi-million 

dollar boat 

EDITORIAL TEAM 

Peter Thornton (Editor) 

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS 

Peter Thornton 

Dr Bernadette Cassidy 

Hamish Ramsden 

Su Marshall 

Hans Wouters 

Zahra Shahtahmasebi 

Bernadette Cassidy 

Hans Wouters 

THANKS TO THE FOLLOWING 

FOR IMAGES IN THIS MAGAZINE 

Brad Smeele 

Bryce Dinneen 

Roxy Shahtahmasebi 

Hamish Ramsden 

Shane Wenzlick 

Brendan Tourelle 

Andrew Hall 

CatWalk Trust 


Jade Whirley 

Josh Letchworth 

Chris Garrison 

Liam Vandenberk 

Zahra Shahtahmasebi 

Su Marshall 

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: Bernadette Cassidy 

and Su Marshall. 

Cover Photo: Brad Smeele says 

writing his first book was part of his 

healing journey. Photo credit: Ashten 

MacDonald. 

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 

An Enduring 

Feeling of Guilt 

Peter Thornton 

Editorial 

HARD WORK: Brad put everything into his rehabilitation. Photo credit: Josh Letchworth. 

It’s 3am and I can’t sleep. My girls are terrible 

sleepers, and are wide awake, so now I’m 

wide awake and my mind begins to race. 

I’m reading Brad Smeele’s book Owning It and it’s having a 

profound effect on my life. My mind wanders to the last 

chapter I read before I hit the pillow. I’ve gone through the 

highs and lows of his fledgling professional career to that 

moment, where it all came crashing down and he broke 

his neck in Florida. I haven’t been able to put it down. 

The level of detail and insight into what Brad experienced in 

those times is heart-breaking, enlightening and humbling. 

I am overwhelmed with guilt. I broke my neck when I was 

17. I was playing secondary school rugby at a tournament 

in Rotorua when the scrum collapsed. The opposition 

forwards pushed again with my head and neck stuck and I 

suffered a hairline fracture at C2 in my vertebrae. My 

spinal cord was intact. 

Now that moment is more than 25 years ago and my 

memories of what happened are a blur. I remember the 

ambulance ride, being strapped on a wooden board for 

many hours on end, I can still feel the fear of going 

through an MRI to confirm that my neck was broken, I 

can hear the doctor’s words where I was told I’d likely 

never walk again, I can still see the look on my parents’ 

faces as they walked into my hospital room. 

—Peter Thornton 

Over that year I don’t know 

how or why, but I made a full 

recovery. I feel forever guilty 

about that. 

What happened next is not so clear. Back in Auckland, my 

church had heard the news of my accident and were 

praying for me. A lot of people were praying for me. 

Over the next few days, I left Rotorua Hospital and was 

told my parents could drive me home to Auckland. My 

neck was still highly unstable, and as it turned out it was 

terrible advice. If we had stopped suddenly coming home 

from Rotorua, my neck could have broken. It was like 

rolling a dice. 

The spinal specialists in Auckland admitted me straight 

away, and I was in a neck brace for the rest of the year. I 

have clear memories of lying in my hospital bed looking 

up at the ceiling and being unsure of my future.


My rugby coach came to visit, and I don’t know why, but I 

was so embarrassed to be seen like that. I guess I was still 

coming to terms with what had happened. 

Over that year I don’t know how or why, but I made a full 

recovery. I feel forever guilty about that. Why me? Why 

did my life magically go back to normal? It’s not fair. 

When I talk to the many people who willingly share their 

stories with the Spinal Network News, I really have no idea 

what they have been through. I apologise if I have come 

across like I do. Yep, I sustained a spinal cord impairment, 

but not like them. 

When I’m reading Brad’s book and he is pouring his heart 

out, recounting the agony of losing the ability to do the 

things he loved, it’s a moment that stays with you. You 

have no idea what that feeling is like unless you have lived 

it. When that reality is permanent and unforgiving, it is a 

devastating blow. That feeling of guilt and wanting to pay 

back is my enduring motivation to do this magazine and 

work for the Trust. 

I want to help in any way I can. I am inspired by the 

people I meet. I know that term gets bandied about all the 

time, but I mean it, I come home from trips where I meet 

amazing people and I feel fortunate for that privilege. 

I was lucky to spend some time with Jamie Astwood and 

her family recently in Hamilton. They are such an 

awesome family and they welcomed me into their home 

like an old friend. 

Jamie, who featured on the cover of our August issue, 

broke her back when she was just 11 years old. She is now 21 

and living a full and independent life. Her relentless 

positivity and smile have been trademarks of her recovery. 

Her family have endured the hard times, leaned into their 

faith and they have come out the other side stronger 

together. That is remarkable. 

I was lucky to talk to Bryce Dinneen for this issue. Bryce is 

such a good man. In the first few weeks after breaking his 

neck, he started to think about how he could help others. 

Bryce’s sister gave him some insightful words of advice 

and he changed his mindset. It was a turning point for 

him and for those in Aotearoa who have a disability and a 

passion for fishing. 

His achievement to create Wish4Fish, a fully accessible 

boat in Tauranga, is the stuff legends are made of. He 


When I talk to the many people 

who willingly share their 

stories with the Spinal Network 

News, I really have no idea what 

they have been through. 

ALL IN THE FAMILY: The Astwood family have 

endured the hard times, leaned into their faith and 

they have come out the other side, stronger together. 

Photo Credit: CatWalk Trust. 

never accepted ‘no’ for an answer and Bryce and his 

team raised millions to make their dream a reality. That 

is incredible. 

You get the feeling that Bryce will carry on living that 

life—helping others with scant thought or regard for 

himself or his own situation. 

And then Brad. We have gone big covering his book in this 

issue for good reason. It’s a compelling piece of work that 

will leave a lasting impression. Brad has been widely 

praised for his honesty and just how raw his writing is. 

And yep, I’m sure his Mum is still getting her head around 

his over-sharing of his prolific sex-life. But Brad’s level of 

honesty is the magic of Owning It. It will make a 

difference to other’s lives because Brad has put himself 

second and others first to show what recovering from a 

high-level spinal cord impairment is like. It’s a brutal, 

lonely and challenging journey. 

You need people along the way to help you find hope again. 

And there is always hope. Brad has overcome the dark 

times to become a positive light. That is hugely inspiring. 

Of course, every journey with a spinal cord impairment is 

different and unique, but we can all learn from others’ 

experiences. I want to be more like these people. I want to 

make a difference. 

It’s 3.30am and I’m still not asleep. I can hear my girls 

snoring away, finally, and I’m trying to join them. 

I feel guilty again—it’s always there. I can’t do anything 

about what happened that day. I’ll never understand it. 

But I’m forever grateful. And I will repay that gratitude in 

my work for others every day of my life.


Supporting 

Positive Futures 

Hans Wouters 

CEO’s Column 

This disparity is felt very 

keenly by those outside of 

the disability sector too. 

—Hans Wouters 

Whatu Ora (MOH) for those with a spinal cord impairment 

(SCI) and the owner is the Government of NZ. I want you to 

know that this seemingly immovable object remains very 

much in our focus at NZST. We are always on the look out 

to ease the burden of our friends whose SCI was not caused 

by an accident and although there is not a huge amount we 

can do, we are increasing our ability to do something in 

certain circumstances. Su and I were with one of our major 

funders recently and found this disparity is felt very keenly 

by those outside of the disability sector too. The funder has 

been motivated to give us some resources to help address 

the problem one small step at a time. If your SCI is a 

consequence of an illness or similar (non-traumatic) and 

you have been trying to have Te Whatu Ora supply some 

mobility equipment, then talk to your local Peer Support 

Coordinator (or me for that matter). No promises but we 

may be able to help you. Our friends at Permobil have 

joined with us to attempt to alleviate the burden this 

elephant causes too many of our people. 

ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM. 

There is an elephant in our room. 

It is a massive problem and over the years it has only got 

bigger and bigger and detrimentally affected the lives of 

many Kiwis. Everyone knows about it—the whole nation 

knows about it! The owners of the elephant even know it 

is a problem and although they speak freely about it, they 

are not motivated to deal with it. It seems that somehow 

letting NZ know, that they know, that the elephant is in 

the room is dealing with the problem. It is not. Over the 

years we have drawn their attention to the elephant by 

visiting the owners—even having their senior 

management use wheelchairs in the most famous 

building in NZ … on national TV no less! There are many 

New Zealanders who are suffering and in fact being 

disabled because of this elephant. Some of you are 

reading these words now. No, this is not a cryptic 

crossword—I will tell you what I am talking about. The 

elephant is the disparity of support between ACC and Te 

2022 has been a remarkable year that has seen us join 

with our friends at Spinal Support NZ in Auckland, with 

the assistance of ACC, to develop a nationwide Peer 

Support service. With around 30 paid Peer Support 

coordinators now dotted around the nation we are 

ensuring most new patients are being discharged to a 

community that has trained Peer Support available. Wow! 

Who would have thought? We are also engaging with 

many in our community who have lived many years with 

the effects of an SCI. We hope to conclude our two-year 

proof of concept project this time next year with a long 

term ACC contract to cement in a powerful, necessary 

service that remains one of the foundations of support for 

the spinal community of NZ. 

It has to be said that ACC’s support has involved a whole 

lot more than funding. There’s a long list of ACC team 

members who have put their shoulder to our wheel over 

eight years to get to day one and beyond. This has been 

incredibly encouraging and shown us time and again that 

ACC want us to prove that Peer and Whānau Support is 

not only needed—but also highly effective, indispensable 

and worthy of long-term sustainability. We recently held a 

two-day training event with the entire Peer Support team


in Auckland. Selena Dominguez and Karen Craven from 

ACC came along on day one and were impressed with the 

calibre of the team and how wonderfully we all worked 

together despite meeting new people from all over the 

country for the first time. After the ladies left, I was struck 

by the positive comments from our team as they were truly 

encouraged by ACC's desire to help us get this across the 

line. Selena and Karen weren’t attending just as 

funders—determined to keep an eye on us—they were 

there to contribute and get a greater feel for our work and 

the need for it. This is the power of bringing a team together 

to achieve something far beyond what you could do by 

yourself and has the ability to deliver very special results. 

Many of you, our readers, regularly contribute to our 

appeals or are regular financial supporters and I have no 

doubt your continued support is what is helping us grow 

and develop our services to help more people. The Back 

on Track Appeal early in the year has given us the 

opportunity to rewrite Back On Track exactly as we want 

to without restriction. Bernadette, Julian, Paul and Kathy 

are making great strides in the preparation of the new 

book. You will see it in 2023 and we can't wait to show it to 

you. As I like to say, “put your sunnies on, the future’s 

looking bright”. 

Finally—Have you ever met someone for the first time 

and come away feeling impressed by them? Not by their 

achievements or status or good looks but just by who they 

are—their presence. My good friends at Spinal Support 

NZ and I were representing our two wonderful 

organisations and our new Peer Support Network at the 

ATSNZ Expo in Auckland recently (Thanks ATSNZ for 

hosting us). The expo had just ended for the day and 

everyone had moved to another part of the venue, I was by 

myself and about to join my colleagues when Brad Smeele 

rolled past looking for the exit. I have never had the 

pleasure of meeting Brad before, so I caught his attention 

and enjoyed 10 minutes together. There is something 

special about Brad—I was taken by his peaceful 

demeanour and, dare I say it, zen. I am looking forward to 

reading the article about Brad in this issue of SNN and his 

book is first on my list for summer holiday reading. 

I wish you all a blessed and peaceful Christmas and look 

forward to the next time we meet. 

Go further, do more with 

a Freedom Mobility hire 

With the largest mobility rental fleet in NZ, and 24/7 nationwide roadside 

assistance, Freedom Mobility gives you that holiday feeling from the moment 

you turn the key. Our personalised service means you get the perfect vehicle 

for your needs, and a perfect experience every time. 

So get in touch and we’ll get you on the road. 

freedommobility.co.nz 

0800 864 2529


Making a Difference 

We reflect on the success of the Peer and Whānau Support investment 

SUPPORT: Peer and Whānau Support has been run 

by the NZST and Spinal Support NZ for many years. 

It’s been 12 months since the New Zealand 

Spinal Trust and Spinal Support NZ (SSNZ) 

secured funding from ACC to increase the 

Peer and Whānau Support Programme. We 

caught up with our National Programme 

Manager Andrew Hall (AH) and SSNZ’s 

President Brendan Tourelle (BT) to see how 

the programme is going. It’s the result of a 

lifetime of hard work and support. 

Can you explain what the feeling of leaving the Spinal 

Unit and heading home for the first time is like? 

AH: Well, it's a combination of feelings. Mixed emotions 

would probably be the best way to describe it. You've got a 

certain amount of excitement and relief to get out of 

hospital and get back to your loved ones and a known 

environment. But there's also a bit of fear and trepidation 

with what is a changed way of life and how that's actually 

going to execute in the real world. 

It's not until you do get home, you realise just how much 

everything is done for you in the hospital. And it's really 

facing that reality when you get home—the fact that you 

have had a permanent disabling illness or injury. That 

really does come home to roost because you're in that old 

environment. The last time you were there, you weren't 

spinally injured, but now you are. 

What is it you want? 

We just want to have a 

yarn, it’s as simple as that. 

—Andrew Hall 

And for the previous three or six months that you've been 

in hospital, you are not having to really confront it in that 

environment. It's just a process you're working through. 

But when you get home a lot of those chickens can come 

home to roost, so to speak. 

This investment in Peer Support is looking to 

alleviate the transition—it has been in play for about 

12 months now, what has the feedback been like from 

the SCI community? 

AH: The feedback has been good. We were convinced that 

Peer Support was a necessary thing because we've been 

offering it for some time. Both organisations have been 

offering it for a few years now. We knew how much benefit 

it was offering people. And certainly, a lot of people who 

were due for reassessment also voiced the need or the 

desire to continue to be able to have some Peer Support or 

Whānau Support when they had gone home.



It's facing that reality when 

you get home—the fact 

that you have a permanent 

disabling illness or injury. 

We were pretty sure that it was a necessary thing and 

certainly that has been proven. We're just in the process of 

getting some evaluations done, people are filling out some 

questionnaires about their experience with the service 

already, and that's been hugely positive. 

So how does Peer Support actually work? 

BT: While the patients are in the unit, they have in-house 

Peer Support from our team. A week or two prior to the 

clients discharge date, we set up a zoom call with the person 

who will become their community Peer Supporter. 

So we set up a meeting with the in-house Peer Support, 

the coordinator and community Peer Support. It’s just 

doing an introduction and a handover. All the details are 

passed on to the client. So when they're discharged, they 

already know who they'll be dealing with in the 

community. That community Peer Supporter could get in 

touch with that person at any stage from then on. 

On top of that, and no matter what is happening with that 

client our coordinators will be calling them in the first 

two weeks after discharge and do a monthly catch up too. 

And we encourage our community Peer Supporters to do 

the same, just to make sure everything's going okay. 

What are some of the most common areas that people 

with an SCI need in that first transition? 

AH: There's still a lot of people involved while the person 

is getting set up, whether it's their ACC Case Manager or 

they might have a community physio that they've been 

referred to or a local occupational therapist, their housing 

mods might be getting underway, there's still a lot of 

people involved in their world. 

Our role is not so much to satisfy any of those 

requirements. It is very much to help with the top six 

inches—their attitude. What is going on in the brain 

department that they want to just talk about how they're 

feeling. That it's not all clinical and process it's more 

about them and how they're thinking and feeling. And 

their families too of course, the whānau and how they're 

thinking and feeling. If they want to talk, we can talk and 

if they don’t that’s fine. Give us a call when you are ready, 

and we'll be there. 

That lived experience is invaluable. And with all these 

people for example the housing modifications is a classic 

one where it can be quite daunting for a lot of people to 

get into that process and you know, our Peer Support 

workers have been there, done that. 

WISE HEAD: Andrew Hall is the 

ideal man to be running the Peer and 

Whānau Support programme for the 

NZ Spinal Trust. 

You know, it is a big process, and it can be fraught with 

fishhooks. But, you start to chip away and you get the 

right reports and the right things done and you can work 

through it. I know that a number of our people have been 

asked to cast their eye over a few plans and been asked 

what they think. 

Do they think this process has been followed correctly 

and we are able to help in that situation because we've 

been there and done that. 

What have been some of the biggest challenges? 

BT: Probably one of the biggest challenges has been 

recruiting and personnel. We had already started our 

recruitment prior to the ACC contract being confirmed. So 

we had a small team already doing the training. 

Right now we've got vacancies and it's an ongoing thing. 

You know, people drop off for various reasons and then 

we've got to recruit again. And we like to try and find 

people whose heart is in the right place, and that can take 

time. So, personnel have been the biggest challenge. 

Andrew's really helped with getting the team up to speed 

with the technology so that has been pretty seamless. 

What have been some good outcomes? 

AH: Well, I think because we're not just working with 

newly injured people we are working with all people with 

SCI in the community. There is a number of people who 

have been out of hospital for many years who we want to 

connect with and just touch base with to see how things 

are going.


For some of our Peer Support workers starting that 

conversation, that's kind of cold calling—that can be a 

little bit tricky. When you go to a party and you know, 

there is a whole lot of people who you never met before 

and what do you do? Do you go and hide in a corner, or 

would you strike up a conversation with a total stranger? 

Some people are better than others at doing this. 

What we're finding is that once people do it, they get 

better at it. And they get more comfortable doing it. But I 

think the key issue for many of our Peer Support workers 

has been how to establish that first relationship, that first 

phone call and how it has been productive for them, and 

for the person they're talking to. 

This is a bit strange. What is it you want? We just want to 

have a yarn it’s as simple as that. 

Do you have any nice anecdotal stories of how Peer 

Support is making a difference? 

AH: We've got a number of stories—one guy in particular 

who hadn't been outside for five years until he agreed to 

meet up for coffee with our Peer Support worker down at the 

If you get a chance to 

have a go at something, 

don't turn it down. 

—Brendan Tourelle 

mall. Now they are doing it regularly. You know, they're not 

there to solve a problem for him. He doesn't need anything 

sorted or anything. They just want to catch up. And it's been 

enough to stimulate him to get up and get outdoors. 

And, over time, other opportunities may appear for him. 

But if that's as far as it goes that's great to get back into 

some semblance of a healthier social life. 

There's a number of other people. Some of the people 

going home from hospital have found it really useful. One 

in particular is getting some advice on housing 

modifications. Not OT advice, measurements, and that 

sort of thing, but just reassurance around understanding 

the process and knowing how best to work with all of the 

parties involved. Understanding what ACC’s 

responsibilities are, what's fair and reasonable to ask for. 

There must be huge excitement about Peer and 

Whānau Support being a long-term prospect? 

AH: Absolutely. Our whole intent is to at the end of the 

Proof of Concept period have a programme that's ready to 

just roll over and continue to deliver the service in as good 

a quality way as possible from then on. 

That will be based on the valuation and work that ACC do 

when they check that the proof of concept was good value 

for money as far as they're concerned. And hopefully they 

will think that. And then the programme will continue to 

act in pretty much the same way. 

We're not running it in a small way, and then completing 

it once they say, yes, we're wanting it to be nationwide 

right now. A lot of people have put the shoulder to the 

wheel over that 15-year period to get it funded and 

underway. It's a huge moment. I’ll be proud when I know 

it's been going for five or 10 years. For me it’s important 

that we get it bedded in and established. 

BT: Yes, that's our main goal. We want to prove to ACC 

that Peer Support is of big benefit to our clients. We 

believe we are in the best position to provide Peer Support 

to the SCI community. And we will be doing all we can to 

provide the service to the best of our ability too. For the 

next 12 months we want to make sure we're hitting the 

back of the net. 

What advice would you offer to the people with a spinal 

cord impairment when it comes to Peer Support? 

BT: If you get a chance to have a go at something, don't 

turn it down. Just giving things a go allowed me to get 

where I am today. I'm on six different committees and 

they are all related to the disability community. I find 

being able to give back to the community that has given 

me so much, very rewarding. Whereas if I had turned 

those opportunities down, I wouldn’t have got to 

represent my country at world championships, or to travel 

to places you may not have on your own list. 

So I would say if you get a chance to do something that's 

out of your comfort zone, just take a big breath, bite the 

bullet and do it, you never know where it could lead. 

THE RIGHT PEOPLE: Brendan says one of the biggest 

challenges has been recruiting and personnel. 

AH: I would stress to people that you don’t have to do it all 

on your own. We're there to help and others are there to


What is it you want? We 

just want to have a yarn. 

It’s as simple as that. 


help. If you're not sure where you can get help in the first 

instance, we can help point you in the right direction, 

whether it's medical, clinical, whatever other help you need. 

But in terms of just having a listening ear, we're there and 

we're there for everyone nationwide. 

The other thing that I really think people need to be 

aware of is their nearest and their whānau and others may 

be hurting too. Their needs are just as important as the 

spinal injured person's needs, and they deserve support 

as well. 

And I think not losing sight of the fact that one person 

might be in the chair, but there's a whole lot of other 

people who are impacted by it. And they want someone to 

talk to you. We can also supply that. 

Peer and Whānau Support by the numbers 

• There are approximately 5,000 New Zealanders living 

with spinal cord impairments. 

• Around 220 people sustain a permanent spinal cord 

impairment in New Zealand every year. 

• Approximately two thirds of these are accidents and 

one third are health-related. 

• ACC has invested $1.3 million into Peer and Whānau 

Support for 2022 – 2023 

• The Peer and Whānau programme has been extend 

across 18 regions from the far north (Kaitaia) to the deep 

south (Invercargill), with around 30 community Peer 

Support staff.


Travelling and require hydrophilic intermittent catheters? 

VaPro Plus Pocket catheters offer 100% No Touch Protection with integrated 

1000ml collection bag for catheterisation at home or on-the-go 

Design features of the improved collection bag 

• Anti-reflux valve to prevent 

backflow of urine 

• 1000ml collection 

bag volume 

• Printed to help monitor the 

amount of urine 

• Transparent to allow visual 

assessment of urine colour 

Life with VaPro Plus 

Pocket Catheters 

Scan the QR code to view 

Ben’s experience with 

VaPro Plus Pocket 

catheters or visit: 

bit.ly/LifeWithVPPNZ 

Ben from Napier, 

VaPro Plus Pocket catheter user. 

Size Length Code Box QTY 

10Fr 40cm 71104 30 

12Fr 40cm 71124 30 

14Fr 40cm 71144 30 

16Fr 40cm 71164 30 

To request samples, please contact: 

0800 678 669 or email 

NZCustomerservice@libmed.co.nz 

Code: IMPSNN 

Prior to use of VaPro catheters, be sure to read the Instructions for Use for information 

regarding Intended Use, Contraindications, Warnings, Precautions, and Instructions. 

VaPro Plus Pocket 

No Touch Intermittent Catheter 

Hollister, the Hollister logo and VaPro Plus Pocket are trademarks of Hollister Incorporated. 

©2022 Hollister Incorporated. AU-00168 AUHC306c. October 2022


Embracing Vulnerability 

Professional wakeboarder. Larrikin. Tetraplegic. 

Motivational speaker. And now a published author. 

FINDING PEACE: Brad says his life coach Susie was a huge influence in changing his mindset. Photo credit: Jade Whirley. 

Eight years ago, Brad Smeele’s life changed in 

a moment. The former professional 

wakeboarder was an innovator and known 

for pushing the limits of the sport. 

In 2014, Brad won the Trick of the Year Award with the 

world’s first double tantrum (back flip) to blind over a 

mega ramp. Only weeks later, he suffered a heavy crash 

attempting to land that same trick again. Brad broke his 

neck and became a tetraplegic. He was 27. 

Now Brad has released his first book; Owning It—The Ride 

That Changed My Life. 

It’s an incredibly vulnerable and personal account of his 

life that you’ll struggle to put down. 

Owning It covers the out-of-control high times of a global 

sporting superstar to dealing with depression after his life 

changed overnight. It delves into the dark times of losing 

his mobility and dream. And finding hope in that journey. 

We caught up with Brad to reflect on the process of telling 

his story and finding peace with his injury. 

It’s crazy. I never thought 

I'd be a published author, 

but here I am. 

—Brad Smeele 

What's the feeling like when you go to a shopping 

mall and there is your book alongside some big 

name authors? 

Yeah, it's wild. I guess that makes it a lot more real. There 

were a few stages of it becoming real. From handing in the 

first draft to then signing off the final proofread and then 

receiving my first copy. 

The next stage was receiving a box of books from the 

printer and then my launch party and now the final stage 

is going into stores, actually seeing it on the shelves with 

the big names. It’s crazy. I never thought I'd be a 

published author, but here I am.


The physical process of writing this book—you wrote 

500,000 words over a seven-year period—how did you 

manage that? 

It was a challenge. When I started, it was before Apple had 

included the swipe-to-text feature on their keyboards. So, 

in the early stages I was like a woodpecker, pecking away 

at the screen with a mouthstick stylus in my mouth, doing 

individual letters at a time. But part of the way into 

writing the book they added swipe-to-text, which meant I 

could swipe from letter to letter instead of pecking them. 

That probably doubled my word count per minute, and it 

was a lot easier on my neck as well. 

The response from the media and reviewers has been 

incredible, were you blown away by that? 

Yeah, it's been well received, and I am humbled by that. 

When you release something like this where it's a very 

vulnerable telling of my life and all the ups and downs 

and everything from sex, drugs, partying, all the good 

times and bad times and putting it all out there you get a 

bit nervous doing so. But that's part of the journey and 

part of what the title is as well. It's Owning It, owning all 

the good and bad of what we have going on in our lives. 

And embracing that. 

I was nervous chatting to the media about that stuff. But 

they understood the reasons for being so vulnerable. That 

was good confirmation. 

LOOKING UP: Brad is full of hope again. 

Photo credit: Liam Vandenberk. 

What are you most proud of in this book? 

The feedback from people from all walks of life. They’ve 

said: ‘That was amazing’ and ‘I couldn't put it down’. I’ve 

had great feedback about how honest and raw it is. I’ve 

had people tell me ‘I love that you shared things like sex 

before and after your injury’, things which a lot of the 

time gets glazed over. 

I knew my story would be packed full of inspiration. But I 

was unsure about how people would find the process of 

reading it and how immersed into it they would get. I've 

never been a writer. This is my first crack at writing a book 

so to get that feedback was gratifying. 

What did your parents think of the book and you 

going to a place that is so vulnerable? 

Yeah they were stoked. They’ve always been proud of 

everything I've done. I know my Mum struggled to read 

certain parts of the book, what her son was up to before his 

accident. Also, how tough it would be for a mother reading 

the parts after the accident, too. She struggled with that. 

But my Dad, he's got Parkinson's disease and he's a big 

inspiration to me throughout this post-injury life and how 

he's handled his situation. So, it’s cool to be able to like voice 

that in the book a little bit as well. They are really proud. 

It’s fully uncensored. How did you manage the 

process of what you were going to share? 

It was all part of the journey that I was on mentally and 

having to work through all of the struggles—it was about 

embracing vulnerability. I was learning along the way as I 

was writing. I was struggling and suffering. I hit rock 

bottom and then I was going through breakthroughs 

where I started to realise things. 

—Brad Smeele 

You can find joy and love 

in life and have great 

experiences regardless of a 

spinal cord injury. 

I wanted that to be authentic so that people know that it is 

the journey that is needed to go through in order to move 

past something like this and be happy again. To find 

peace with this type of injury. 

Too often we bottle things up or glaze over things. I 

wanted to put my story out there as strongly as I could. I 

want people to go on the journey with me. My hope is 

there will be some takeaways and tools that people will be 

able to apply to their own situations. 

How hard was it to relive your story? 

The whole process was cathartic. It was a struggle being in 

first person and present tense. There were times I put 

myself into a state of depression, not intentionally, because 

I was having to dig into the stuff I was writing about. 

It was challenging along the way. But it was part of my 

healing journey. I wanted to get things out and process 

them. I also wanted to share the stuff that doesn't get 

spoken about that often. From random erections to


FLYING HIGH: Brad says one of the hardest parts of writing the book 

was reliving his life before the accident. Photo credit: Chris Garrison. 

shitting yourself or whatever, everything that I went 

through and had to adjust to—that's all in there. It was all 

part of my journey. 

I imagine it would have been difficult to recall your 

life before the accident. 

That was the hardest part in the whole process. It was 

challenging mentally to think about my life before my 

accident. It’s hard to go back there. 

The most challenging part when it came to the actual 

writing was crafting the learnings from Susie, my 

kinesiologist and my life coach. We had conversations 

with her helping me through everything that I needed to 

learn. I had to go back and remember, and create 

dialogue. I'm proud of how it all came together. 

The SCI community will benefit from how honest you 

have been, was that one of your goals? 

Yeah and not just someone with a spinal cord injury. It’s 

people being able to relate in any sort of struggles. I tried 

to make it broad so people can apply these lessons to 

anything whether it's financial struggles or a break-up or 

divorce or loss of a loved one or whatever. So hopefully 

there is something for everyone. 

I guess it's the same with the stuff I post on social media. 

It’s good to be honest so others can benefit from your 

struggles and what you have learned. 

What have been some of the ways you've won the 

mental battle and stayed positive? 

going to last. And honestly, neither are the good times. It's 

all ups and downs and it's realising that happiness and 

peace in our lives isn't necessarily a destination, but more 

a journey that we need to go through constantly. 

We have to be willing to face the reality of the struggles 

we're going through. In a situation like mine, with a spinal 

cord injury, it's not easy to brush them aside. You can’t 

make yourself feel better by going for a run or going to the 

gym by getting a good workout or having sex or whatever 

it is, these kinds of coping mechanisms that we may have 

used in the past to avoid or cope with life. 

All of a sudden, I was in a place where I was forced to face 

it. So we've got to be willing to do that and digging into 

the beliefs behind the emotions and everything that we're 

going through. The key thing is sitting with emotion—as 

opposed to pushing it aside—and trying to learn from it. 

What would you say to a 27-year-old Brad who was 

coming back from overseas and at the start of the journey 

with a spinal cord injury and scared about his future? 

I mean to be honest 27-year-old Brad probably would’ve 

told me to piss off if I came and tried to tell me anything 

about how my life was going to be OK [laughs]. I didn't 

want to hear from someone in a wheelchair about what 

my life was going to be. 

But if I said something, it would be learn along the way. 

You can find joy and love in life and have great experiences 

regardless of a spinal cord injury. It's about embracing 

change and learning to adapt along the way. 

Remember that it’s all temporary. The bad times aren't


Book Review—Owning It 

Brad Smeele’s autobiography 


Brad’s journey to find hope 

after such trauma is an 

inspirational read, one we 

can all benefit from. 

And if he was going to tell that side of his story in such an 

uncensored fashion, then he was going to be just as open 

about his life before the accident. 

IMPRESSIVE: Brad’s autobiography has 

received great reviews across Aotearoa. 

Has there ever been a book this honest and 

raw published in New Zealand? I’m not sure. 

It’s obviously hard to say definitively but 

quadriplegic Brad Smeele’s first published 

book Owning It—The Ride that Changed my 

Life, is nothing short of explosive. 

As a professional wakeboarder, the 35-year-old Auckland 

born-and-raised lad was known for pushing the 

boundaries of what is possible in his sport. He always 

wanted to make a statement and he has carried that same 

mindset into his autobiography. 

Owning It will grab your attention and you’ll find it hard 

to put down. 

Brad is the first to admit that he’s not an academic. He 

didn’t enjoy school and he found this task a real test. In 

his own words: “It’s the biggest challenge I’ve ever taken 

on. And the most effort I have ever put into something 

that I didn’t really enjoy. It was a grind, it was a struggle 

and an absolute battle.” 

As a quadriplegic, overcoming the physical challenge of 

writing a book was impressive in itself. 

He wrote 500,000 words over a seven-year period. Brad 

toiled away writing most of the 500-page book by holding a 

mouthstick stylus and pointing it at letters on a screen. 

That showed incredible dedication and patience. 

But there is also real quality in how he has put this book 

together. Brad wanted to paint a real picture of what 

living life with a spinal cord impairment is really like. 

One of the superstars of his sport, Brad lived an 

out-of-control life of drugs, drinking, an endless line of 

women and finding as much trouble as he possibly could. 

At times it feels like you are witnessing the mates of a 

larrikin deliver a haphazard speech at a 21st birthday 

party, such is the level of detail in the partying and the 

sex. But Brad felt—to be true to himself—if he was going 

to be honest about his life after his accident that same 

lens needed to be applied to his whole life. 

Then comes the accident. The life changing moment. You 

go along with Brad on all of his nights out and 

ground-breaking success on the water, and then BAM! 

Even though you know it’s coming, the crash hits you like 

a punch in the guts. It made me stop and put the book 

down. That moment is so brutal and the hard times that 

follow are nothing short of heart-breaking. 

There were many times when I got emotional in the latter 

half of the book. You can feel the pain, the agony and the 

complete devastation. 

Brad says writing this book helped him find peace with 

his injury. His level of honesty will help others reflect on 

their own hardship or adversity, and find their own peace, 

I am sure. 

As they say time is the great healer. Brad has reached a 

place where he can be positive again. 

His optimism and outlook on life is infectious and he pays 

a lovely tribute to his family and friends and one person 

in particular (Susie), who helped him change his 

perspective. 

Brad’s journey to find hope after such trauma is an 

inspirational read, one we can all benefit from. 

Brad’s book Owning It is available at the NZ Spinal Trust 

Resource Centre.


What Roxy Did 

Roxy Shahtahmasebi put her body on the line in an incredible effort 

—Roxy Shahtahmasebi 

Some would say I’m slightly 

nutty and stubborn maybe?? 

I am definitely determined. 

“Some would say I’m slightly nutty and stubborn maybe?? 

Definitely determined and will see something through 

when I’ve committed to a cause. NZST is such a great 

cause, that I really do believe in.” 

Roxy kept us up to date with her training in the weeks 

leading up to the event with a Facebook blog—even 

reading it was exhausting. 

ALL IN THE FAMILY: Roxy says the 

encouragement from her husband Vaughn and 

children Shadeh and Kian got her through the race. 

Roxanne Shahtahmasebi is a wife, mother of 

two energetic kids, Emergency department 

Doctor and fitness fanatic. To say she has a 

busy life would be a gross understatement! 

And then on the big day our NZST team were glued to the 

race app watching her progress in real time. 

Messages were flying back and forth between us across 

the work chat group … it was nail-biting stuff! And then … 

She is also the daughter of NZST’s very own Dr B— 

Bernadette Cassidy. Which means she has grown up 

around the NZ Spinal Trust and has a good 

understanding of who we are and what we do. And that is 

why she chose to raise funds to support our work when 

she committed to the 100km Noosa Ultra Trail Run in 

March this year. 

Yes—you read that correctly … 100km! Running. On a 

trail. In the Queensland heat and humidity. 

Roxy herself described it as “ludicrous nuttosity”. 

“I got persuaded to start training for a trail ultra, and 

I thought if I’m going to do this, I should fundraise,” 

she says. 

“This is what happened with my first marathon, and my 

first triathlon (a half ironman), which were also the first 

races I entered outside of high school athletics! I’m a bit of 

an extremist. So, I decided to keep the tradition going and 

enter a big distance to try and raise money for NZST. 

“I think it was partly Mum working there and my early 

involvement, but also knowing what limitations come 

with SCI and how I might feel if I ever had a spinal injury 

and wasn’t able to run again—that was what drove the 

first marathon fundraiser. 

THAT WINNING FEELING: Completing a 100km run 

was one thing, but winning it was something else


“I turn the corner, there's the timing mat! 

Over the mat, look up. 

Tape across the finish. 

No way. No way. 

I think I'm smiling. 

—Roxy Shahtahmasebi 

I am overjoyed—I really left 

it all out there on the trails. 

Arms up, break the tape, it falls to the ground. 

I don't. 

I'm still standing, but then I lean over, hold my legs.” 

Not only had she finished … she’d won! 

The next day Bernadette shared with Roxy a selection of 

the messages which had been sent on the day of the run. 

Roxy likes to think the essence of these messages reached 

her and helped her to keep going. 

“I am overjoyed with that day, I really left it all out there 

on the trails. I feel like this amazing achievement is 

thanks to everyone who donated, and otherwise got 

involved in the running endeavour. I'm ecstatic that we 

raised over $4000 for the NZST.” 

We’re in awe of Roxy’s incredible effort and 

determination; of the enthusiasm and practical 

encouragement from her husband Vaughn and 

children Shadeh and Kian through the build-up and 

especially on the day (… ice and water anyone?); and the 

wonderful support of everyone who got in behind her 

fundraising campaign. 

And we’re more than a little grateful that it was her 

running the trails and not us. 

Do you have a need for speed? 

NZ Spinal Trust have exclusive use of Highlands Motorsport 

Park’s 1.5km racing circuit. 

Come and experience a unique, adrenaline-filled ride driving a 

5.0L V8 Mustang custom-built production-based muscle race car. 

Equipped with push-pull hand controls it’s the only racing car of its 

kind in New Zealand available for hire. 

SPONSORED BY 

Come join us at Highlands Motorsport Park 

Saturday, February 4th 2023 - 8.30am -3.30pm. 

Bookings are essential as costs are being subsidised by our sponsors. 

Phone: 03 387 1305 or Email: brett.ladbrook@nzspinaltrust.org.nz


Advertorial 

Freedom? Independence? 

Love to Drive? 

These are just three of the key reasons why Total Ability 

works hard to help more people with disability get 

behind the wheel and they’ve been doing it for more 

than 10 years now! 

Regaining your independence through driving has a 

hugely positive impact on a person’s outlook on life. It 

opens so many opportunities enabling employment, 

connecting with family and friends independently as well 

as being part of the community through various activities 

and hobbies. 

For people with complex disabilities the opportunity to 

drive has been either physically impossible or financially 

prohibitive. With the advancements in technology and 

programs to help with funding, this dream no longer 

must remain a dream. 

In Australia, with no previous experience before 

embarking on her life-long dream of driving, Ame 

Barnbrook—born with no arms, one leg and three toes— 

is well on her way to passing her NSW licence. 

Having represented Australia in competitive sailing 

and learnt to play the trumpet amongst other activities, 

Ame is no stranger to gaining independence in many 

aspects of life. 

After hearing about the latest innovations in driving 

controls, she set her sights on passing her test as soon 

as possible. 

Ame now has the finish line firmly in view with the help 

of driving instructor Dean McMillan and Total Ability’s 

High-Level Assessment Van equipped with cutting-edge 

technology from Fadiel Italiana. 

In New Zealand, Total Ability and Braiden International 

have partnered to produce the same fully fitted 

High-Level Assessment Van to give people with disability 

the opportunity to explore the potential to drive from 

wheelchair and to trial a variety of options. The High- 

Level Assessment Van will be available from 

mid-February 2023. 

We encourage all Driver Trained Occupational Therapists 

(DTOTs) in NZ to get in touch with Total Ability at 

info@totalability.com.au for updates on the rollout of 

the van and to make assessment bookings.

SPINAL NETWORK NEWS 

Fadiel Italiana 

19 

Driving Hand Controls. 

For those who 

totalability.com.au


“There’s Nothing Like it 

in the World” 

Bryce Dinneen talks about funding a multimillion-dollar boat 

ALL SMILES: Bryce says the moment when people with a disability 

realise that they can fish it is life-changing. Photo credit: Wish4Fish. 

Bryce Dinneen has a heart of gold. The 

Tauranga man sustained a spinal cord 

impairment when he was 29. He has never 

given up. Better still he has taken his passion 

for fishing and created a fully accessible boat 

with his charitable trust Wish4Fish. The 

boat, and the experiences on it, are changing 

the lives of people living with a disability. 

Bryce Dinneen is lying flat on his back in the Burwood 

Spinal Unit when he looks up at the ceiling. He’s doing it 

tough. Bryce has been in head traction for the past 10 

weeks and it’s pushed him to the limit. 

“I had one bad day where I got really upset,” remembers 

Bryce. “My family got upset. I was at breaking point.” He 

says the “amazing team” at Burwood Spinal Unit helped 

him turn it around. They encouraged him to put photos of 

good times and friends and whānau on the ceiling 

because he was spending so much time looking up. 

Bryce’s family taped photos on the ceiling with two 

themes. One was a collection of times with friends and 

whānau laden with smiles and happiness. The other one 

—Bryce Dinneen 

I thought, 'crikey, how am 

I going to go fishing again? 

I have to look into this.' 

was fishing. “I thought, ‘crikey, how am I going to go 

fishing again? I’ll have to look into this’.” 

The idea for Wish4Fish was born. Bryce began dreaming 

about creating something special. 

“Things changed forever” 

Bryce can remember his accident like it was yesterday. It 

was the Wellington Cup, 28 January 2007 and he was at a 

stag party. “We were a bunch of guys having a champagne 

breakfast, probably too much champagne and not enough 

breakfast,” he says. 

They had a great day at the races in full suit and tie. On 

the way back into town for a meal some of the lads


decided to jump into Wellington Harbour for a swim to 

freshen up. “I wasn't too keen, but I just went along with 

it. I was the last one into the water and I misjudged the 

depth as I dived in. “There was a loud bang and things 

changed forever.” 

Bryce was lying face down in the ocean and he couldn’t 

move. He was fighting for his life. His mates faced the 

hard decision to leave Bryce face down to protect his spine 

or turn him over. “Thankfully they turned me over, that 

allowed me to get back to breathing.” 

In a state of shock, they waited for the emergency services 

to arrive and take Bryce to ICU at Wellington Hospital. 

Lying in a hospital bed, Bryce made the hardest phone 

call of his life. 

“I had to ring my Mum and Dad and tell them that I had a 

high-level spinal cord injury. Mum answered the phone 

first, she said wait there and she went to get my father and 

he dropped the phone just with the sheer shock. 

“To be honest their lives have never been the same since 

that day. Barring the passing away of your loved one or 

sibling, it's pretty much close to the top of the tree, so to 

speak, in terms of a big moment to come to terms with.” 

LEGACY: Bryce’s funding pitch to the Lotteries 

Commission said they would take 1000 people out on 

the boat every year. “That was our line in the sand”. 

Starting again 

Bryce was 29 years old. He was sent to Christchurch Hospital 

ICU for two weeks to allow the injury to stabilise and then he 

was in Burwood Spinal Unit for a further 11 months. 

“It was a long time because of the way they managed my 

break,” he says. Bryce had fractured his C2, C3, C5 and C6 

in his cervical vertebrae. He was placed in head traction for 

a minimum of eight weeks and then another two weeks. 

It was the hardest time in his life. “To be honest, head 

traction was a pretty tough time,” he says in his 

understated way. 

His family were his rock. His sister never missed a day 

when he was in the Spinal Unit. And his Mum and Dad 

who were living in Tauranga flew down regularly thanks 

to the support of ACC. When he had a tough day, his sister 

provided some inspirational words which changed his 

perspective. “She said ‘it's happened to you for a reason 

Bryce,” he says. You of all people who have our love and 

support, but you have the ability to deal with it, you're a 

larger-than-life character. You're a positive kind of guy. 

So, you’ve really got to just try and drill down on that’.” 

Bryce remembers one of the doctors at Burwood would 

always say whatever person you were like before your 

spinal cord injury, it magnifies afterwards. 

“So if you're a bit of a rascal and you would get up to 

mischief. Well, you can sort of easily go down that path 

moving forward. Or you can go, right, how am I going to 

make this work?” It was a turning point. “It might sound 

silly, but I consider myself blessed that I went to the 

Burwood Spinal Unit and learned off so many people that 

actually genuinely had great advice.” 

He says he has the nurses at Burwood to thank for his skin 

integrity. People like Dr. Angelo Anthony and Dr. Rick 

Acland taught him how to own his new life. 


There was a loud bang and 

things changed forever. 

“Whether it was teaching a support worker how to transfer 

you or having an understanding about battling bladder 

management, you've got to take responsibility,” he says. 

“It’s going to be tough. It’s going to be challenging, but 

you can actually have some quality of life moving 

forward. That’s why I consider myself grateful.” 

Back into the outside world 

Bryce found the transition to home scary. 

“I didn’t want to leave Burwood because I had everything 

there I needed. Doctors, physios, support. But there’s that 

transition period which everyone has to focus on moving 

forward. And it is hard. 

“It took me a long time to get back into society.” 

As a young man, Bryce was a keen sportsman. He did a lot 

of running and playing representative cricket. He said to 

excel in those two pursuits you need to be mentally strong 

and that helped in his recovery. Bryce turned his 

attention to helping others and making a difference. 

Wish4Fish was born 

The idea of fishing again stayed with him. He had a 

number of conversations in the Spinal Unit, and he was 

told “Bryce we don’t go fishing because it’s too hard”. 

Bryce thought to himself: ‘I am not accepting that. I’m 

going to figure out how to do this’. And the more people I


talked to it was like: ‘Let's open it up for everyone because 

there must be a lot of other people who are keen to fish’.” 

When he returned to the community, he was a man on a 

mission. He leaned on his father’s networks who had been 

in the banking industry for 42 years. His old man said: “If 

you want to do this, we’ll back you 100 percent.” 

Bryce found a lawyer and an accountant, and created a 

charitable trust in March 2011. The trust had two main 

purposes—to take people living with illness, disability 

and hardship out on the water; and to either modify or 

build a purpose-built system to support the needs of 

the recipients. 

The first venture on the ocean happened soon after. A 

family friend found a 42-foot sport fishing boat which 

they adjusted with some Kiwi ingenuity, a bit of plywood 

and a few screws. 

“I managed to take a couple of people out. One had 

Parkinson’s disease and another person was on the 

mental health spectrum. They had the time of their lives.” 

Testing the waters 

For the next 10 years Bryce drove the boat project. They 

managed to do multiple trips out of Auckland, the 

Coromandel and Bay of Plenty with close to 350 people 

enjoying their time on the water. 

They were hiring charter vessels and working with them 

to make them accessible. The community got behind it 

and the ventures were funded by fishing competitions, 

sausage sizzles, and raffles. But to build the boat, Bryce 

knew he needed much more. 

He made an appearance on the ITM fishing show with 

Matt Watson which was a huge boost to their profile. 

Following that opportunity, Ray Lowe reached out to 

Bryce to see if he could help. 

Ray—a qualified engineer who has worked in the fabrication 

industry—has a passion for fishing. “He said ‘I think we can 

do a better job getting people involved to support this’.” 

They created the grinder fishing apparatus which allows 

people with a disability to fish around 95 percent 

independently. 

Then they turned their attention to the boat. The first 

designs started at 11m in length and the final design was 

17.5m long. The cost was now up to $5million. 

Ray was heavily invested in the process to create the most 

accessible boat in New Zealand. They met with 

experienced boat designer Roger Hill who completed the 

concept drawings and then they got to work with boat 

builders Alloy Cats in Mount Maunganui. 

Funding was still an issue. 

Out of the blue, Bryce got a call from Matt Watson who said 

the Labour Government were putting together a $20 

million fund for people to be involved in the America's Cup 

and beyond. He believed Bryce’s vision was a perfect fit. 

When we got the funding 

for the boat, it was an 

unbelievable moment. 

“We said if we are successful with this funding from the 

Lotteries Commission, we would be able to build this boat 

and basically create a legacy moving forward with the 

ability to take 1000 people out every year. That was our 

line in the sand. 

“It was an unbelievable moment.” A whole host of 

community funders followed. Within six and a half 

months, $2.4 million was raised from community funders. 

The Wish4Fish boat was completed in October 2021. 

“There is nothing like it in the world,” Bryce says proudly. 

A surreal feeling 


Bryce says it’s a surreal feeling every time he goes out on 

the water on the Wish4Fish boat. He often reflects on 

what they have achieved and created. 

“For a long period of time this project was supported by a 

small group of like-minded individuals like friends and 

family, they said whatever you get into we will back you 

all the way. We never gave up.” 

Bryce says there is no better feeling than helping a person 

with a disability realise what they are capable of. 

“Mate I have seen it all,” he says. “I've seen people that are 

on the mental health spectrum that don't need their 

medication. I've seen people reunite, re-energise with 

their family and loved ones. 

“They don't have a disability or illness when they're out on 

that boat, they are just like everyone else, just going out, 

feeling the sun on their face and the wind in their hair.” 

There are two things he loves about fishing—the 

environment and the challenge. “It's that sense of 

freedom—there is nowhere else I’d rather be.” 

Bryce says he will never take fishing for granted as he 

knows that life can change in a moment. “When I speak to 

people now, that’s what I say—just appreciate what you've 

got. Life could change in a heartbeat.” 

Bryce has accepted his SCI and helped change the lives 

of others. “I’d always give the shirt off my back to 

someone,” he says. “I guess it's just the way I am. With 

the cards that I've been dealt, I’m just trying to play the 

game as best I can. 

“To me, the one thing I can control is my commitment 

and my positivity. I still have my ability to engage with 

people and make a difference.” 

They tried a couple of times before they got the call they 

had been waiting for.


Getting Creative in the 

Cook Islands 

Zahra Shahtahmasebi talks about her experience at 

the Creative Centre in Rarotonga 

HAPPY PLACE: The Creative Centre was established in the 1980s. 

After spending 17 years running nightclubs 

across New Zealand and Australia, Danny 

Tixier never suspected he would end up in 

Rarotonga, running a not-for-profit 

organisation dedicated to supporting people 

living with disabilities. 

—Danny Tixier 

The results are fatal… there 

are no safety nets here. 

Behind the Tu Papa primary care clinic in Rarotonga’s 

capital of Avarua is the Creative Centre. A yellow sign 

alerts passers-by to its location—without this, no one 

would know it was there. Even with the sign, at first 

glance it looks like it could be extra-curricular service for 

school pupils and as a result, on my visits to Tu Papa I 

paid it no heed. The fact that I ended up at the Creative 

Centre at all was pure coincidence after I ran into a friend 

on holiday from New Zealand. After finding out my 

reason for being in the Cook Islands was to look at the 

delivery of healthcare, he told me I could not leave 

without speaking to Danny Tixier, the man in charge of 

the Creative Centre. 

I heeded his advice and a couple of days later I found 

myself walking up the gravel driveway towards the 

Creative Centre, which backs out onto the beach. 

The resulting interview with Danny was well over an hour, 

starting with the history of the centre which was first 

established in the 1980s. It wasn’t until 2002 that it was 

implemented by the Cook Islands Ministry of Education as 

a school to cater for people with intellectual disabilities. 

It was originally funded to provide support for a group of 

10 people with disabilities, but as the only service of its 

kind across all 15 of the Cook Islands, it quickly grew to a 

group of 40 when Danny took the reins in 2019. 

Open from Monday to Friday, from 8.30am to 4pm, the 

centre is run by four staff members, including Danny. They 

provide a life-skills programme, social interaction, as well 

as advocacy, health literacy and “lots of love and care”. 

“Lots of clients rely on us for many things, including for 

their mental, physical and social wellbeing. We facilitate


—Danny Tixier 

The reality is it was a huge 

wake up call, and reality 

check, but I’ve learnt to adjust. 

meetings, help them with their shopping, deal with 

situations of abuse. We’ve been in court and hospitals.” 

While the volume and demand continue to increase at the 

Creative Centre, the funding is the same as it was over 20 

years ago, says Danny. 

It wasn't until my friend first told me that the Creative 

Centre provided services and support to people living 

with disabilities in the Cook Islands that I realised I 

hadn't seen a single person in a wheelchair since I arrived 

in Rarotonga during my time there, nor anyone using 

crutches, mobility scooters, or any other mobility aids. 

Without those visible reminders I had naively thought the 

rates of disability were much lower in the small Pacific 

nation, but Danny quickly corrects me on that fact. 

According to the 2016 census, there are 2900 people living 

in the Cook Islands with disabilities, a number which is 

“huge” comparable to its population of around 17,000, he 

adds. “Although we have our numbers [at the centre], we 

know this means there are a lot out there who are not 

coming in.” 

Danny surmises that this could be due to stigma and 

shame, preventing people from seeking help. He describes 

the traditional beliefs that still prevail in some families, 

where a disability is seen as a “curse”. 

Other barriers include access, where some will have no 

means of transport or are unable to catch the bus on their 

own to get them to the Creative Centre. 

With an ageing population, the elderly, who may also 

benefit from the Creative Centre’s wrap-around services, 

are another group who struggle with access, due to 

decreasing mobility, and cognitive decline caused by 

conditions like dementia. 

Loneliness is a big problem, with the lack of social 

interaction having huge impact on the elderly especially. 

The Cook Islands doesn’t have rest homes or retirement 

villages, and times are changing, says Danny, with 

increasing costs of living pushing people to work more 

and be at home less. “This means the mamas are left at 

home alone with dementia and so their quality of life and 

life expectancy drops.” 

He’s experienced a huge lesson in his role and that is, that 

as one person, backed with a small team, they can’t be 

everywhere at once. The flipside to that coin is seeing the 

repercussions when the community’s most vulnerable 

aren’t monitored, whether by family or health service. 

“The results are fatal… there are no safety nets here.” 

SUPPORT: “Lots of clients rely on us for many things, including 

for their mental, physical and social wellbeing.” Danny Tixier. 

The need to maintain constant support was paramount 

during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the Creative Centre 

never closed, working around the clock to keep its 

services running for its clients. 

He says health services for the 2900 Cook Islanders with 

disabilities would benefit from being centralised into a 

national service, all under one roof, with shared resources 

and pool of funding to make it more sustainable. 

With regard to the challenges facing healthcare services 

in the Cook Islands, especially NGOs like the Creative 

Cente, Danny says there needs to be further investment 

across the whole health system, with the aim of making 

working in the Cook Islands a more appealing prospect. 

“It’s getting people to come back home to take the leap 

and work here—it’s really hard, despite the weather and 

the beaches.” A lot could be done to make this more 

appealing, he adds, saying better wages, better 

professional support and care, as well as better 

opportunities to train and progress would be a start. 

“We’re not the highest paid people—it takes a certain type 

of person to make that jump.” But Danny is certainly that 

type of person. On the day of our interview (27 June), it is 

exactly three years that he made the move to Rarotonga 

with his family. Health care hadn’t always been his 

thing—he had spent the majority of the 1990s and 2000s, 

running nightclubs across New Zealand and Australia. 

But after discovering his passion for helping people, he 

returned to New Zealand, where he ran an intensive care 

support service for older people. He took a pay cut to do 

so, but he was just grateful he was able to give back to his 

community. 

The Creative Centre saw him take an even bigger pay cut. 

“I have to work twice as hard here. I went from having a 

human resources team, nurses, lawyers, to here, where I 

am everything. 

“The reality is it was a huge wake up call, and reality 

check, but I’ve learnt to adjust. I’ve enjoyed it and it’s been 

hugely rewarding.”


Meet Our Team: 


The one and only Dr Bernadette Cassidy reflects on 20 years at the NZST 

technology (ICT) on the literacy levels of students with 

learning disabilities focusing on the role of learning resources 

centres/libraries in supporting these students. My research 

recommended an evidence-based client-centred model. 

I was so thrilled, not many professionals get to have their 

dream job. 

You worked with Professor Alan Clarke, what was he 

like as a man and how did he influence your work? 

Prof, as he was known, became a paraplegic in 1991 and 

knew first-hand what it was like to have an SCI. He was 

also a surgeon, an academic, and incredibly intelligent. 

He was formidable at times. 

LOVED: Dr B is a popular member of the NZST team for good reason. 

“There is a giant in our midst and long may 

she remain.” —Hans Wouters. 

What are your memories of your first day working 

at the NZST? 

It was 8 July 2002 and as I walked through the doors of 

the Allan Bean Centre (ABC), I felt both excited and 

apprehensive. I was also a little daunted by the empty 

library, there were two computers, empty shelves no 

library catalogue, and no formal budget! Plus, I knew 

nothing about spinal cord impairment (SCI), but I am a 

fast learner and I love a challenge! 

People who work for charities gain a variety of skills. In 

those early years I sourced funding for library resources 

and salaries. I quickly learnt how to leverage partnerships 

for the benefit of the library like acquiring Koha, a library 

management system first developed in NZ; and 

established partnerships with other organisations which 

helped with providing expertise and additional resources. 

Why did you want to work for the Trust? 

What struck me about the Trust/ABC was its innovative 

and unique philosophy to support people with SCI and 

their whānau to lead independent and positive lives. The 

ABC was doing cutting-edge stuff! 

At that time, Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of 

Technology (CPIT) had established a partnership with the NZ 

Spinal Trust to employ a Library and Learning Coordinator to 

provide resources and support for people with SCI. 

I had moved to New Zealand (from the UK) the previous 

year and I was part way through my PhD research which 

investigated the effects of information and communications 

He understood libraries and the power of information. 

His vision for the ABC was for the library to be central to 

all services and resources. To empower people by 

assisting them to learn and understand about their SCI, 

ask questions and take charge. 

What are some of the achievements you are most 

proud of in your time at the NZST? 

There are a few! I have been fortunate to have been 

involved with many projects these include: 

• Establishing an extensive array of literature on SCI, 

disability and rehabilitation. From the outset, I wanted 

the library to be an inclusive space, not just for people 

with SCI but also for people with brain injuries and 

other conditions. 

• A training programme for volunteers in library skills. 

• A computer skills programme taught by experienced 

volunteer tutors. This became a core service. 

• Educational workshops for school children to raise 

awareness about disability. 

• Developing educational resources to help patients 

through their rehab and support their whānau. I am 

particularly proud of the Head Space handbook on brain 

injury and stroke which I co-authored with Claire 

Freeman. The book is widely used in hospitals and 

rehabilitation centres throughout New Zealand. 

• Joint editor of the ‘Art of Recovery’, which shares stories 

of people living with SCI across the country. 

• New NZST website which is more user friendly and 

comprehensive. 

• Overseeing the Spinal Network News magazine, I have 

had the privilege of working with great editors: Paul 

Stafford, Johnny Bourke and Pete Thornton.


What does it mean to you to provide the library 

resource for patients of the Burwood Spinal Unit? 

From the outset, I wanted to create a welcoming, inclusive, 

safe environment complemented with resources, services, 

and equipment. The library quickly became a place where 

patients and whānau could come for rest and respite and 

library staff provided a listening ear. Learning what is of 

importance to people with SCI is a constant privilege and 

I’ve met many amazing people over the years who have 

shared their journey with me. If I have been able to help in 

some small way, that makes it all worthwhile. 

Of course, there have been many hard times as 

well—like the earthquakes, the terrorist attack—how 

have they impacted you? 

The 2011 earthquake was devastating for Christchurch 

and those that lost their loved ones. Little did we know at 

the time that the ABC would be demolished four years 

later due to safety concerns. In June 2014 the building 

was closed and we spent the following year essentially 

camping. That was probably the most challenging thing 

I’ve faced in my 20 years. It was a huge loss to not just me 

but all the NZST staff, patients, whānau, and the 

community. The NZST staff worked from an office with 16 

computers, and I established a library in the Burwood 

Spinal Unit Day Room. The following year we moved into 

portacoms, and other staff moved into old offices. 

Prior to the demolition of the ABC, we held a farewell 

ceremony. The ceremony finished with a paint bomb 

session, lots of people took the opportunity to throw paint 

balls at the building—which was strangely comforting! 

Christchurch has had more than their share of adversity 

with the 2019 Mosque terror attack which was truly 

unthinkable. What was heartening was the love and 

support from the Christchurch and New Zealand 

community towards the families who have lost loved ones. 

The library team supported a number of victims such as 

obtaining e-books in Bengali and providing one patient's 

wife with a laptop so she could continue her studies while 

supporting her husband in hospital. 

Losing the Allan Bean Centre was a huge blow—what 

was that space like? 

The space was custom designed for people with disabilities 

and had an enormous window with a huge elm tree 

standing guard outside. Visitors to the centre would 

regularly remark about how it felt calming, welcoming and 

spiritual. It was a state-of-the-art building that oozed 

positivity and wellbeing. It was truly unique, and the 

architects Sheppard and Rout won an award for the design. 

Working for the same organisation for the past 20 

years is a remarkable feat (and not very common 

anymore)—you must be proud of that? 

I am very proud. It’s hard to believe it is 20 years because it 

certainly does not feel like it. Those years have gone by in 

a flash but so much has been achieved during that time. 

Ultimately what has kept me here for 20 years, is believing 

in a cause as well as the passion, enthusiasm and 

dedication of my NZST colleagues and trustees. 

—Dr Bernadette Cassidy 

I was so thrilled, not many 

professionals get to have 

their dream job. 

Who have been some of the best people you have 

worked with over that time? 

Ahh, there are too many to mention! I have had the honour of 

working with many wonderful people over the years. I was 

reflecting on my 20 years recently and realised that I have 

worked with six CEOs all with their unique style! I count my 

colleagues amongst my friends and if I had to list them, I 

may miss someone out and I don’t want to offend anyone! 

There has been a lot of fun during those years: the grape 

picking fundraisers at Anne and Jim Sinnott’s vineyard in 

Waitaki, and the wonderful cake and cooking competitions 

which bonded the staff and provided connection. 

What makes the SCI community in NZ special? 

The SCI community in New Zealand is very close knit and 

very supportive of each other. This is conveyed so well on 

the NZ SCI Facebook page—where people share their 

experiences and knowledge with others. 

What did it mean to have a surprise party to celebrate 

and reflect on this moment of 20 years? 

It meant a great deal to me to celebrate 20 years with my 

colleagues, friends and whānau. I felt so overwhelmed by 

the accolades, gratitude and love that was shared. The 

NZST is my second family and has a very special place in 

my heart and always will. 

What advice do you have for people who work for 

the Trust? 

At the core of the NZST is the people we serve and help on 

their rehab journey. One of the NZST’s greatest strengths 

is relationships. The relationship with our clients, their 

whānau, and caregivers, and the relationships we have 

with each other. You will not find a more supportive, 

warm, friendly organisation such as the Trust. 

20 years—how much longer do you think you will 

keep serving in this role and helping others? 

I don’t think I will be here another 20 years!! But I will be 

around for some time yet. I have been very fortunate to 

have been involved with many projects ensuring that we 

carry on Prof’s legacy. 

Did you ever think that when you started, you’d still 

be here 20 years on? 

No, I didn’t because at the time I knew very little about 

SCI, but it quickly became clear that I could bring my 

prior knowledge from my research and develop the library 

service to how I wanted. I also got the opportunity to work 

on many interesting projects—I learnt so much about SCI 

in the process.


Giving 

back to the 

community 

Helping people 

to live their 

best lives. 

0800 436 773 

sales@ableaxcess.co.nz 

ableaxcess.co.nz


The Great Summer Road-trip 

Top 10 accessible hotels in NZ according to Booking.com 

Summer is the perfect time for a road-trip. But we hear it so 

often. It’s so hard finding a place that is accommodating to 

wheelchair users. Well look no further. Booking.com have 

produced a definitive list. The top 10 hotels across Aotearoa for 

accessibility. We have also leaned on Tripadvisor to help offer 

some of the best attractions these regions have to offer. 

So, what are you waiting for? 

Sudima 

Christchurch 

City 

9.2 Superb 

1,440 reviews 

New in 2019, this five-star boutique hotel is located on 

Victoria Street in the heart of Christchurch. It is right 

alongside a number of cafés, restaurants and bars. 

Every room offers free movies. All rooms have a fridge, 

wardrobe and a flat-screen TV, en suite bathrooms and air 

conditioning. There's also the Moss day spa, and a free 

fitness centre. Staff are available 24 hours. 

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS: Christchurch Botanic Gardens, 

TranzAlpine Train, Canterbury Museum, Willowbank 

Wildlife Reserve. 

QT 

Queenstown 

9.0 Superb 

1,564 reviews 

The QT Queenstown boasts views over Lake Wakatipu 

and the peaks of the Southern Alps. This lakeside resort 

features luxury accommodation with a side of the 

signature QT quirk. 

Foodies with adventurous tastes will love the Bazaar 

Marketplace. The rooms have cable TV. Some rooms have 

great views of the mountain or lake. 

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS: Milford Sound Cruise with 

Cruise Milford, TSS Earnslaw, Central Otago Wine Tour, 

Shotover Jet. iFLY Indoor Skydiving. 

Golden Star 

Motel 

Christchurch 

9.1 Superb 

1,096 reviews 

Newly built in 2017, Golden Star Motel is just down the 

road from AMI Stadium and Hagley Park. Canterbury 

Museum is 2km from Golden Star Motel, while 

Christchurch Arts Centre is 2.2 km from the property. 

Every room is air conditioned and features a large TV 

with SKY. You will find a kettle in the room. Every room is 

fitted with a private bathroom and amenities. 

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS: Margaret Mahy Playground, 

International Antarctic Centre, Quake City, 185 Empty 

White Chairs (Earthquake Memorial), Banks Peninsula. 

The Mackenzie 

Suites 

Lake Tekapo 

9.5 Superb 

1,015 reviews 

Featuring stunning lake and mountain views, The 

Mackenzie Suites offer luxurious accommodation a short 

stroll from the Lake Tekapo village. 

The accommodation is air conditioned and features large 

terraces at the front and rear of the property. Each luxury 

suite is equipped with a kitchenette and their own dining 

area. Some rooms feature a wall gas fire place. 

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS: Lake Tekapo, Mount John 

University Observatory, The Church of the Good 

Shepherd, Lake Alexandrina.


The Metrotel 

New Plymouth 

9.1 Superb 

1,083 reviews 

The Metrotel is a modern motel situated in the heart of 

New Plymouth. It offers easy access to many local 

attractions, restaurants and businesses. 

Free WiFi, and free private parking is available. Each 

room at this motel is air conditioned and equipped with a 

flat-screen TV with satellite channels. There are dry 

cleaning services at the property. 

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS: New Plymouth Coastal 

Walkway, Pukekura Park, Pukeiti Gardens, Brooklands 

Zoo, Sugar Loaf Islands and Paritutu Rock. 

Ashbrook 

Motel 

Taupō 

9.1 Superb 

1,295 reviews 

The Ashbrook Motel is centrally located and offers a free 

airport shuttle service. Lake Taupō is just down the road. 

It offers free WiFi and private parking for guests. All rooms 

come with a desk, a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, 

bed linen and towels and a kettle. There is also a children's 

playground. 

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS: Huka Falls, Aratiatia Rapids, 

Spa Thermal Park and Riverbank Recreational and Scenic 

Reserve, Craters of the Moon, Māori Rock Carvings. 

One88 on 

Commerce 

Whakatane 

9.5 Superb 

1,273 reviews 

One88 on Commerce is located in Whakatane. This five 

star motel is a short walk from the Whakatane District 

Aquatic Centre and walking tracks. 

It offers air-conditioned rooms with a private bathroom 

and free WiFi. The units are fitted with a seating area and 

a flat-screen TV. All rooms include a kettle, while some 

have a patio. Continental or hot breakfast available. 

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS: Ohope Beach, Julian’s Berry 

Farm & Café, Mataatua: The House that Came Home, 

Whakatane River Walk, Kohi Point Lookout. 

Acacia Lake 

View Motel 

Taupō 

9.1 Superb 

1,659 reviews 

Right in the heart of Taupō, Acacia Lake View Motel is just 

300m from Taupō Town Centre. Taupō Airport is a 

10-minute drive away. 

A lovely lake front setting, Acacia Lake View Motel offers 

free WiFi. Some rooms feature a balcony. All have a 

flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Some rooms offer a 

fully equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave. 

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS: Lava Glass, Lake Taupō, Huka 

Prawn Park, Waipahihi Botanical Gardens, Wairakei 

Natural Thermal Valley. 

Akaroa 

Criterion Motel 

9.1 Superb 

1,102 reviews 

Akaroa Criterion Motel is situated opposite Children’s Bay. 

This motel offers rooms with either a balcony or a patio. It 

also includes 500MB of free WiFi per day, per room. All 

rooms include a flat-screen TV, underfloor heating and a 

private bathroom. Most units have harbour views. 

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS: Akaroa Dolphins, Akaroa Full 

Day Sightseeing Tour, Guided Kayak Safari, Black Cat 

Cruises. 

Pebble Beach 

Motor Inn 

Napier 

9.0 Superb 

1,225 reviews 

Pebble Beach Motor Inn is 5 minutes' walk of many 

restaurants and cafes along Marine Parade and is within 

15 minutes' walk of the art deco city centre. 

Balcony or a patio with sea views available. All rooms 

offer a freshwater spa bath and rain showers as well as 

free WiFi and on-site parking. Each suite and studio offers 

a flat-screen TV, and fully equipped kitchen. 

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS: Marine Parade, Church Road 

Winery Cellar Door, Bluff Hill Lookout, Mission Estate 

Winery.


ROHO Hybrid 

Select Cushion 

Scan below to 

learn more 

0800 115 255 | sales.nz@permobil.com | www.permobil.com/en-nz


Hospital 

There is nothing quite like people who tell it like it is. Hamish 

Ramsden is one of those people. The published author of the book 

Dog’s Getting Fat is a regular columnist for the NZST. He tells us 

just why he hates being in hospital. 

—Hamish Ramsden 

I’m grumpy because it is the 

one time that I feel that I don’t 

need to put on a bit of a front. 

sick or injured but why so grumpy? I’m grumpy because it 

is the one time that I feel that I don’t need to put on a bit 

of a front. A front that pretends that everything is okay, 

when occasionally life is just not that great. I know I 

shouldn’t do this, but sometimes I do, as when you are 

interacting with other people all the time, they don’t like 

to be around someone grumpy. No one does. 

HONESTY: Hamish says he sometimes "pretends that everything is OK, 

when occasionally life is just not that great." 

What is it about hospitals? Apart from the 

obvious, no one likes going there as a visitor 

or even less as a patient and why is it that you 

often seem to get crook with a different 

ailment when you go to one? 

I have spent more than my fair share of time in hospitals 

due to my accident; I have spent enough time lying down 

for three lifetimes, hence there is an inner drive within 

me now to try and resist the temptation to sleep in in the 

mornings or spend more time lazing in bed. I’m already in 

credit big time. 

So, if I’ve ended up in hospital, why am I such a grumpy 

prick? The nurses, the doctors, physios, receptionists, 

cleaners, caterers etc, are all fantastic and you are treated 

very well. Despite all the things you hear or read about 

our health system when you really need it, it does a damn 

fine job, I think. OK, I know I’m in hospital because I’m 

So, I figure why do I have to put up the front in hospital 

when I really don’t need to. It doesn’t mean that I’m 

grumpy with the nurses and staff, what it means is that I 

don’t want visitors. I know they mean well and that they 

are there to wish me a good recovery and to lighten my 

day, but in my eyes that means that I have got to use my 

limited reserves to smile and say that I’m doing OK, and 

things are looking up. So, if I sometimes put up the front 

during the year, then this is the one time that I treat 

myself by not having to do it. I’ve been known to turn 

away friends and relatives, even those with gifts! 

I know I shouldn’t, but I make no apologies for doing it. It 

is my time and, in the end, although I may not always be 

grumpy, when you are feeling a bit crook it is just one 

more thing to do. It’s just like having a bad day at work, 

they happen, and I bet you don’t smile and act cheery all 

the way through that. So, all I’m doing is saying yep, I’m 

grumpy, leave me alone, don’t feel sorry for me, I’ll get 

over it. It’s being a bit precious; I know. 

So don’t take it personally, it is not just about you, it is the 

one time when it’s all about me (although some people 

may contradict me on this). Don’t feel sorry for me, just 

leave me alone to wallow in my own self-pity, I’ll get over 

it, and so will you and you’ll see me beaming the day that 

I leave hospital. That’s when you can catch me to say Hi! I 

promise my smile will be genuine.


DISABILITY 

EQUIPMENT 

EXPO 

2023 

AUCKLAND 

EVENTFINDA STADIUM 

17 Silverfield Wairau Valley, Auckland 

Monday 13th March | 9am – 3pm 

HAMILTON 

CLAUDELANDS EVENT CENTRE 

Cnr Brooklyn Road & Heaphy Terrace, Hamilton 

Wednesday 15th March | 9am – 3pm 

PALMERSTON NORTH 

CENTRAL ENERGY TRUST ARENA 

Arena 2, Gate 5, 61 Pascal Street, Palmerston North 

Friday 17th March | 9am – 3pm 

Free Entry. 

NZ’s Premier 

Disability Show. 

Register at any show for 

your chance to 

WIN AN iPAD! 

CHRISTCHURCH 

PIONEER RECREATION AND SPORT CENTRE 

75 Lyttelton Street, Christchurch 

Tuesday 9th May | 9am – 2pm 

DUNEDIN 

EDGAR STADIUM 

116 Portsmouth Drive, Dunedin 

Wednesday 10th May | 9am – 1pm 

021 240 8622 | showyourability 3am.net.nz | www.showyourability.co.nz


Preparing the Ground for 

Return-to-Work 

Returning to work is an important aspect of rehabilitation for many 

people after a spinal cord injury 

INDEPENDENT: The NZST specialist vocational 

rehabilitation service is based at both the 

Burwood and Auckland Spinal Units. 

Knowing that early vocational rehabilitation can improve 

employment outcomes, a team led by Dr Jennifer Dunn, 

University of Otago, have spent the last two years looking 

more deeply at how and why early vocational support 

works for people with neurological conditions such as 

spinal cord injury and stroke. The overall project was 

called ‘Early Vocational Rehabilitation in Neurological 

Injuries Study [EVocS]. 

We are hugely grateful to have listened to and learnt from 

people with lived experience of spinal cord injury and 

stroke, and a diverse range of vocational rehabilitation 

providers. They have allowed us an inside view of early 

vocational rehabilitation—and the kinds of support that 

help people think about and plan for a return to work after 

a spinal cord injury. 

—Burwood Academy Trust 

We are hugely grateful to have 

listened to and learnt from 

people with lived experience. 

For readers wanting to dive more deeply into the research 

findings, you can find related papers, posters and video 

recordings of presentations on the Burwood Academy 

website: www.burwood.org.nz/research/current-projects/


Thinking about work after an SCI: what helps? 

We wanted to understand how to help people think positively about work after an SCI. We developed a ‘gardening 

model’ to help explain the different types and degrees of growth and support an individual needs to action return-towork 

(RTW) plans following SCI. We conceptualised the individual with a new SCI as a seed – with potential for growth 

but requiring specific conditions to flourish. 

HOPE IS KEY 

The potential to work is within each 

person, but energy is required to 

start the process and sustain 

change. We found that hope (like 

energy from sunlight) is needed to 

turn initial RTW ideas into goals 

and plans following injury. Early 

conversations about work allow 

people to feel hopeful - but the 

inclusion of clouds illustrates that, 

at times, hopefulness about RTW 

can fluctuate. Early conversations 

and individualised support 

improved people’s confidence and 

self-belief in their ability to achieve 

their RTW goals. 

DIFFERENT SUPPORTS REQUIRED 

Identifying supports or resources 

that need to be in place for 

individuals to develop their own 

RTW-focused goals and actions. 

Some people require a lot of 

support (like climbers), and others 

don’t need much at all. 

What helps: 

• Allow people time to explore 

their thoughts about disability 

and develop coping or 

adjustment strategies. 

• Clarity about the individual’s 

function is typically required 

before pathways towards RTW 

can be developed or enacted. 

STIMULATING GROWTH 

Exploring options about work and 

mapping out possible pathways to 

get back to the type of work that 

best meets their needs and 

preferences. Early conversations 

give people information and 

support to maintain their selfconfidence 

and self-belief. 

What helps: 

• Over time these conversations 

can become increasingly 

targeted towards specific 

options that might work for the 

individual and their particular 

situation. 

• Support the person to feel in 

control of their RTW pathway. 

PREPARING THE TEAM GROUND 

The entire rehabilitation team (the 

soil) needs to believe that work is 

possible following SCI. Family and 

employers may also need to be 

included in the ‘team’ – ensuring 

that people can hear consistent 

hopeful messaging. 

What helps: 

• RTW goals should be included 

in inpatient goals and 

reinforced in day-by-day 

rehabilitation practice. 

• The whole team should 

consistently reinforce positive 

messages about future work 

options and about what is 

possible and/or expected in 

terms of work after an SCI. 

PREPARING THE SEED 

People are ready to think about 

and plan for work at different 

times. It is helpful for early 

conversations to focus on how 

work fits into each person’s sense 

of purpose and self. Getting to 

know the whole person and their 

unique situation is essential. 

What helps: 

• Hearing positive stories about 

others’ work experiences after 

an SCI. 

• Focus on a person’s strengths, 

skills and resources – not just 

their new challenges as a result 

of the SCI. 

• Allow people to think and talk 

about work in their own time. 

LINKING WITH EMPLOYERS OR 

FUTURE RTW SUPPORT TEAMS 

Ongoing vocational support is 

required to ensure that growth is 

sustained. What conditions does 

each person need to flourish? 

What helps: 

• People must remain hopeful 

about work. Ongoing support 

is required to help them 

maintain hope and enact RTW 

plans. 

• Communication between 

vocational rehabilitation 

providers needs to occur - so 

people can seamlessly 

continue exploring work 

options that will work for 

them.


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. 

Access Community Health has been at the 

forefront of keeping people healthy and safe 

in their homes since 1927. Today our 

nationwide team of skilled nurses and 3,000 

support workers make over three million 

visits per year, ensuring people can remain 

active and independent in their own homes 

and community. 

Able Axcess are the leading suppliers of 

aluminium mobility ramps for 

residential and commercial disability 

access. We also manufacture rubber 

threshold ramps and level shower 

inserts, at our factory in Feilding. 

Avonhead 

Rotary 

Rehabilitation 

Welfare Trust 

The Elizabeth Ball 

Charitable Trust 

Burwood 

Volunteers Trust 

Deluxe Box 

Riccarton Rotary 


Crusaders 

Canterbury Masonic 


Cube Design 

The Palms Shopping Centre 

A F W and J M Jones 

Foundation 

Fresh Choice Parklands 

Rotary Club 

of Christchurch 

Hyman Marks 


Are you a subscriber? 

It’s easy to subscribe to the NZST and it only costs $30 a year. Your subscription 

helps with the printing of the Spinal Network News magazine and helps us 

support the positive futures of people with spinal cord impairment. 

Go to our website and click 

on the red ‘Donate’ button 

www.nzst.org.nz

Size doesn’t matter... 

said no catheter user ever! 

Try our smallest, most discreet catheters on the market! 

Contact USL Medical to try your FREE 

samples today! 

0800 658 814 

pd@uslmedical.co.nz 

Coloplast Pty Ltd, PO Box 240, Mount Waverley, VIC 3149 Australia 

www.coloplast.com.au The Coloplast logo is a registered trademark of Coloplast A/S. ©2022-11 CEX208. All rights reserved Coloplast A/S

SNN_December 2022 Issue_web low res

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

Delete template?

Save as template?