"WACHS - Great Southern Services, Health & Community Rehab,"

I had a stint in hospital with double pneumonia, AF, kidney and lung deterioration which brought me to the brink.  Luckily I survived due to the efforts of the Great Southern Medical Campus Albany WA,  including   in-house rehabilitation to enable me to get home.  Upon discharge I was offered the opportunity to take part in an 8 week course with the WACHS - Great Southern Seniors Health & Community Rehab programme called Breathe Easy.  This involved walking for stamina and breath improvement followed by strength exercises and included information sessions covering all topics of managing your condition.

Following this I attended a High Level Balance Group again with GSSH& Community Rehab for 8 weeks.  This course covered all aspects of balance including walking balance, cognitive and motion exercises together with strength and reflex work.

These courses helped me to gain a level of independence that surprised hospital staff and relatives alike and has allowed me to stay in my own home and enjoy a full life with many activities within the boundaries of my condition.

I can only be grateful that this help is available to us in our lovely country town with the support of family and friends without having to travel to cities and stay in hospital/dormitory accommodation.

I also wish to express my thanks and admiration to all the staff involved in running these courses, for their dedication, professionalism, advice and guidance.  They arrived at each session with energy, smiles and encouragement and kept a watchful eye over all of us at all times.  They gave us individual suggestions or adaptions for exercises that were not conducive to our conditions.  With their inclusive personalities I felt they promoted our groups to bond and encourage each other.  How can you not achieve in that positive environment?

With their help I am a happy and productive member of society, with the ability to drive, live in my own home with assistance and look forward to the future. 

May the Governments of Australia realise the benefits of this help to the communities and continue to provide more programs for more recipients.  I believe it will be cheaper in the long run for them.