Brett's rehab journey after spinal cord injury
Donation protected
Hi, my name is Katelyn. I am raising donations toward rehabilitation equipment for my dad, Brett Small.
If you don't know Dad, he grew up in the Gladstone area. He loves motorbikes, cars, mountain bikes, camping, and the outdoors. He has been a loyal employee at QAL for over 30 years. He is happily married to my mum, Julie-ann, with two adult children and two beautiful grandchildren. Dad loves to help those he loves in any way he can.
In March 2023, Dad had a mountain bike accident that resulted in a significant spinal cord injury. He was flown from the local mountain bike park to Rockhampton Hospital, and then to Brisbane shortly after for surgery. Dad's SCI is incomplete at C4 level, causing him to lose most function from the shoulders down. He uses a power wheelchair with a chin control and relies on the support of his wife and carers. As time passes, he is slowly rebuilding the pathways needed to move his arms and legs and is determined to give it all he's got.
Unfortunately, since returning to Gladstone from Brisbane in October, Dad's access to proper rehabilitation equipment has been very limited. The cost to hire equipment is unrealistic and the cost to buy is high. It has been a long and difficult journey to secure Government funding for the basics, like modifying the family home and car to be accessible to him, or getting his own wheelchair. While he still waits for the basics, it has been made clear that funding for rehabilitation equipment is unlikely.
Because of this, I'd like to rally the support of our community to help relieve some of the stress from my parents and purchase a MOTOmed Muvi.
The Motomed enables the patient to decide whether he wants to train with or without the motor and allows for whole-body training simultaneously.
I have attached a short video link that shows the equipment below.
Not only is this equipment great for Dad's independence and recovery, but as someone who lived life actively, exceptional for his mental health also.
As a quiet family, the ultimate goal is to see Dad and Mum return home to relax after such a difficult year. My soul intention is to find the best ways to help him thrive at home and be the happiest, healthiest version of himself post-injury.
The costs associated with quadraplegia are significant. A proud man raised a proud daughter, and asking for help is difficult, but I am determined to do what I can. I am currently talking to suppliers to find the best possible price for a private purchase.
If you can make a donation or show your support by sharing our gofundme, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
Thank you for reading,
Katelyn Small.
Organizer and beneficiary
Katelyn Small
Organizer
Tablelands, QLD
Julie-ann Small
Beneficiary