Don moves from aged care to enjoy a more independent life

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Don couldn’t be happier, using his NDIS funding to move from aged care into his own apartment where he can now be more independent.

The 52-year-old, who has Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus, has moved to one of 18 high needs independent living apartments in Springfield as part of MS Queensland’s Best life Project, which gives people with disability a choice to move from aged care or avoid having to move to it.

“Physically, mentally and financially, I’m much better off than I was now I’m on the NDIS,” Don said. “It’s been a life-saver.”

“I’m back feeling much better and doing things I hadn’t been able to do before.

“I love music. I have ever since I was a child. I studied at the Queensland Conservatorium of Music and have my Diploma of Music,” Don said proudly.

“Now I’m back playing the French horn and dabbling in a bit of self-taught trumpet.

“I’ve got two goals – one to join a community band, and I’m writing my memoir so I can share my Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus journey with others.”

Don’s Focal Support Coordinator, Patty, said she worked closely with Don, his NDIS planner, his support workers and therapists, to help him transition.

“The changes we’ve seen in Don since he moved here have been incredible,” she said.

“His physical and mental health has improved dramatically, and it’s great to see him back playing his French horn and trumpet. On ANZAC Day he even played the “Last Post” for all the residents!

“Don has also formed new friendships, and you can see he is really enjoying being able to socialise with people closer to his age.”

“Now I can live my life to the best of my ability, the way I choose,” Don said.

MS Queensland Service Delivery Executive General Manager, Karen Quaile said Don is just one of many individuals it has been able to provide appropriate housing for.

“We know there’s an urgent need so we are working closely with NDIS support coordinators, the National Disability Insurance Agency and developers/landlords/owners to make sure we can address the need and place as many people as we can in these new state-of-the-art, fully accessible high needs apartments so they can regain control of their lives and start living them the way they choose to the best of their ability,” Karen said.