Originally from Seattle, John sustained his spinal cord injury (SCI) less than a year ago and was delighted to be able to stay at Sargood recently, thanks to the support of our community of donors.

“For me it was an amazing demonstration of how things can be arranged for people confined to a wheelchair – such a wonderful experience.”

John is living alone at the moment in a small apartment that has been adapted to accommodate his needs and sadly there’s not enough room for his family to be with him. After a long and happy marriage, this is the first time he and his wife have lived separately. John has become wonderfully resourceful, is working hard on increasing his independence and was looking forward to a break that would help restore his positive outlook.

From the minute John arrived at Sargood on a wet Friday afternoon, he was so impressed by our outstanding team. He was welcomed by Anthony who took such great care of him, and enjoyed chats with Tara our lovely receptionist.

Although the weather wasn’t great John was able to access the local transport system via our wheelchair friendly ramps and walkways and really enjoyed getting the bus to Warriewood and Mona Vale, no mean feat for someone who left rehab only at the end of October 2021.

“Even just to sit on the balcony and enjoy that view overlooking Collaroy Beach was such a pleasure.”

We are so glad that John enjoyed his stay. The Foundation looks forward to hosting stays at Sargood for other people with SCI who are unable to access insurance cover or the NDIS due to their age.