Michael is an introvert and a father of three who loves music, fixing cars, playing the guitar, and spending time outdoors fishing and camping. Michael was passionate about his hobby farm while engaged in a career that spanned over 30 years with the E&WS.
The day Michael's daughter married, the family noticed something different. Michael watched from a pew as his daughter walked down the aisle; he had forgotten he was there to give her away. It was after this time that subtle changes occurred. Michael had short-term memory problems, making it difficult to maintain his employment. Simple things like remembering where the keys were and difficulty with the depth of conversations became more apparent.
Michael was 58 years old. He went to the doctor, and they began investigating his symptoms. A referral to a neuropsychologist had Michael undergoing further tests, which resulted in the diagnosis of early-onset Alzheimer's. Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of Dementia, and it affects memory, thinking, and behavior, which commonly progresses to affect daily activities and functions. Usually, most common amongst older adults (over 65), a small number have the early-onset form.
Over the next 12 months, the Alzheimer's disease progressed, and Michael's capacity to care for himself began to diminish. The ability to drive and cook, which he loved, became more challenging. Michael could no longer work, creating additional financial pressures. Eventually, the NDIS granted funding, and Support Coordinator Barbara Lightburn started to work with the family to get services in place. The stress had already taken its toll on Michael's relationship and significantly impacted his family's support.
Barbara worked closely with Michael's family to find a service provider that could give him 24-hour support in a climate that was becoming increasingly difficult. Complications of Dementia, which included incontinence, difficulty with speech, mood swings and confusion, resulted in Michael being hospitalised, but beds were limited due to Covid-19. Michael was at risk of becoming homeless and the stress on his family was unimaginable.
Barbara worked tirelessly to find a disability support provider who could give Michael the security of a home, the support he needed and opportunities for quality of life. With the hospital's ongoing pressure for Michael's discharge, Barbara decided to build a support service that could meet his needs.
Six months later, Michael was discharged from the hospital and moved into a home supported by My Ability Pathway, founded by Barbara Lightburn.
Michael now spends his days in his garden, walking, resting and seeing family. A team of professional staff support him 24/7. His family has peace of mind knowing he is getting the support he needs, and My Ability Pathway continues to grow, delivering services to people with disabilities.