 What an incredible journey of personal triumph and success Richard has been on in the past few years.
Richard was hit by a car when crossing the road when he was 11 years old. He acquired brain injuries and initially lost the ability to talk and walk.
Today, Richard is living independently in a flat of his own supported by his Lifeways team for only a few hours a week. With his confidence flourishing he is also now in paid employment - which was one of his main goals when he first came to Lifeways.
For the first few years of his recovery Richard required 24/7 support. He spent over a year in a wheelchair struggling with day to day tasks including remembering how to do them. He required support for all aspects of daily living whilst moving from hospital to hospital as part of his recovery plan. His family were his principal carers for the first 10 years of his rehabilitation.
Over the years, Richard’s motivation and focus has enabled him to reduce the amount of support he receives. Using technology as a compensatory system has transformed Richard’s life. With the support of his Lifeways team, Richard is able to plan his life and manage his time. He is able to stay on top of household tasks and run a home around his busy schedule.
“I use my computer to help me manage my time and finances. Using Google Calendars helps remind me when I need to do things and where I need to be and it’s really easy using the Internet for on-line banking. My mobile has been enabled to prompt me to do things at the right time so I don’t even have to be near a computer which is great when I’m out and about”.
Richard is an active member of the local community in Preston. Not only does he work for Cycling Projects through a scheme called ‘Wheels for All’ where he runs exercise sessions for people with disabilities, but he also works as a volunteer for a Disability Equality Forum.
So what’s next for Richard?
Having been supported by Lifeways for the past few years, Richard’s life is busier and fuller than ever. His leisure time is packed full of hobbies and interests. He enjoys swimming, going to the gym, socialising at the pub, Xbox, playing pool and spending time with friends and family. He has completed a Level 1 Counselling Course along with English and Maths qualifications at a local Adult College.
Richard has set his sights on running the New York Marathon in 2012 and is in full training mode. He also aims to learn to drive, complete a Level 2 Counselling Course and if possible reduce his support down even further whilst still employing compensatory systems to help him organise his busy life. |
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