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| STORIES FROM OUR PEOPLE |  | Andrew Malcolm | Andrew,
son of Freda and Ack Malcolm, was born in the Waikato Hospital 2 March
1971. Due to lack of oxygen during a dificult birth there was some
brain cell damage. He has athetosis and severe spasticity resulting in
uncontrolled, involuntary movements. His only mobility is in a
motorised whelchair, and he can only use his left hand. Some limbs are
stiff and heavy like iron bars.
Physiotherapy!
This is where our appreciation of the benefits of a hydroherapy pool
began some thirty five years ago. It was suggested Andrew should use
the department's hydrotherapy pool. Andrew was three years old, and was
relaxed in the warm water. Soon he had confidence to lay on his back
because the buoyancy of the water enabled him to float. He was in
control - developing mobility and strengthening his muscles, including
the heart.
This has continued with a weekly half hour session at the
physio pool. Because of the limited opening hours his session meant
time off school and university, where he is a computer software
engineer.
What a joy to hear there were plans to develop a
hydrotherapy pool at Waterworld which would be available for longer
hours and weekends. The elation was somewhat dampened when the cost was
revealed at the first meeting of the Hydrotherapy Trust - $1.2 million
to be raised by the Trust, in addition to the Council's contribution.
We
were pleased to be involved with the fund raising, submissions to
Council and contributing information regarding the essential
requirements for the severely disabled.
The advantages of a public
hydrotherapy pool are numerous. Other community pools are very busy,
noisy and very challenging for those like Andrew whose spasm is
exacerbated by noise, sudden movements, etc. There can be fun without
boisterous behaviour. Being observed (mostly by the curious) is often
embarrassing but in the hydrotherapy pool differences are easily
accepted.
Space, special equipment, individual changing rooms etc.
are top priorities for those using a wheelchair, and are not available
elsewhere.
This hydrotherapy pool is a huge asset for Hamilton. So
many young, old, those recovering from injury or surgery, in fact all
who have special needs will feel safe and comfortable using this new
facility.
Congratulations to all those who have brought this dream to reality.
for a PDF download of this story, click here
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