“There is no greater disability in society, than the inability to see a person as more.” – Robert M. Hensel

With the drastic changes and uncertainty COVID-19 has brought to us all in 2020, the wider population has gleaned an insight into what it’s like to live with Cerebral Palsy. Those living with the disability are masters of dealing with change, breaking down barriers, and finding creative solutions to overcome issues.

Cerebral Palsy is a congenital disorder of movement, muscle tone or posture. Some adults with Cerebral Palsy may be able to live on their own and work a full-time job. For others, they may require full-time assistance to complete activities of daily living.

The most common challenges that adults with Cerebral Palsy experience include premature aging, walking and swallowing disorders, communication difficulties, post-impairment syndrome, muscle spasticity, mental health conditions and difficulties with social relationships (Cerebral Palsy Guide, 2020).

To acknowledge World Cerebral Palsy Day, we’re sharing the achievements of one of Therapy Care Blacktown’s brightest stars, Jason Peck.

Jason, who has been a member of our community for two years, lives with Cerebral Palsy, Fragile X syndrome and Schizophrenia.

Jason’s current NDIS goal is to increase his individual capacity. Therapy Care supports Jason on his endeavour by providing therapeutic and daily living supports.

Over the past 12 months, Jason has enthusiastically committed to additional supports, and has become an integral member of our Group Day Program, which he attends five days per week.

As well as attending the Group Day Program, Jason receives support from our speech pathologist, recreational therapist, allied health assistants and a disability support worker who assists with domestic duties.

During Jason’s transition to our supports, we identified the need for advocacy and further funding for Jason to increase both his physical and cognitive function.

“We identified Jason needed increased behavioural support to help him manage his disability. For us, it was important to create a holistic approach to Jason’s support by working collaboratively with his wider support network including his family, support coordinator and behavioural specialist.

“Together, we advocated for Jason and received a generous increase to his NDIS plan. This enabled us to put in place the necessary supports Jason requires to achieve his NDIS goals and live more independently,” says Therapy Care’s Recreational Therapist, Karlie Scurr.

Lynda, Jason’s mum is thrilled with the progress Jason has made since his NDIS funding and support has increased.

“Jason’s ability to process his emotions in challenging situations has certainly developed. We no longer experience situations of extreme frustration both during his support sessions and at home.

“Jason loves the social element of attending the Group Day Program. Normalising socialising and accessing the community on a more frequent basis has been great for him,” says Lynda.

The progress Jason has made is largely due to the holistic approach his support team has committed to.

“Our continuity of services and integrated approach has helped de-escalate Jason’s challenging behaviours, and increased his ability to complete daily living activities with greater independence,” says Karlie.

Karlie works closely with Jason’s speech pathologist Kira, to ensure they work together to support Jason to better communicate, learn and socialise in the way that’s best for him.

“Jason has been working on clear speech strategies, following directions and social skills, in order to communicate clearer and build friendships. Jason continues to try his best in every session and is self-motivated to improve his speech and communication, it’s amazing to see,” says Therapy Care’s Speech Pathologist, Kira.

We are so proud of Jason, and his determination to build his skills and become more mindful of his behaviour. Jason continues to improve every day and is a shining light here at Therapy Care.

We thank Jason and Lynda for trusting us to support Jason and for pushing us to be better support workers, team leaders and therapists.

We asked Jason what he likes about being a part of the Therapy Care community.

“Therapy Care makes me happy. Seeing my friends, and trying new activities makes me feel good. I love fishing, going to the park, arts and craft and cooking. I like working with Kira, seeing Jai and Nicole in the gym and seeing Matt every day for Group Day Program.”

To find out more about Therapy Care’s holistic approach to providing NDIS support services, reach out to us at info@therapycare.com.au