Join us for an insightful episode dedicated to equipment and home modifications! We’re thrilled to welcome two expert guests. First, specialist occupational therapist Toni Blanche will share key insights on selecting the right equipment and planning home modifications for both immediate needs and future adaptability. Then, young adult Jess Pellow will recount her journey, illustrating how assistive technology and home adaptations supported her during her formative years and continue now to aid her independent living. You  ’ll be exposed to a variety of market options and innovative custom solutions, along with strategies for collaborating effectively with your allied health team and funding sources to achieve the best outcomes. Don't miss this opportunity to learn and empower yourself!

Meet our Guests: 

Jess Pellow

Jess is a CX Consultant and Director, as well as a mentor for the Wheelchair Basketball Academy. She has also served as a Peer & Social Supports Coordinator at SCIA and Presenter for Wheelchair Sports NSW. Jess’s insights are shaped by her life experiences following a tragic motor vehicle accident at the age of 7, which claimed her mother’s life and left both her and her younger sister with spinal cord injuries. In honour of her mother, Jess co-founded the Ree Foundation, an organisation dedicated to enriching and enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities. Her personal journey has deeply influenced her commitment to supporting others facing similar challenges.

Toni Blanch

Toni is a highly experienced specialist occupational therapist with almost 30 years in children’s spinal cord injury and rehabilitation. She annually delivers lectures and tutorials in the Occupational Therapy program at Sydney University, where she introduces wheelchairs and seating in an engaging way. Her goal is to inspire young therapists to explore assistive technology that enhances independence and enriches the quality of life for both users and caregivers.



Image:  Jess Pellow provided by SpineCare Foundation

Join us for an insightful episode dedicated to equipment and home modifications! We’re thrilled to welcome two expert guests. First, specialist occupational therapist Toni Blanche will share key insights on selecting the right equipment and planning home modifications for both immediate needs and future adaptability. Then, young adult Jess Pellow will recount her journey, illustrating how assistive technology and home adaptations supported her during her formative years and continue now to aid her independent living. You  ’ll be exposed to a variety of market options and innovative custom solutions, along with strategies for collaborating effectively with your allied health team and funding sources to achieve the best outcomes. Don't miss this opportunity to learn and empower yourself!
Meet our Guests: 
Jess Pellow
Jess is a CX Consultant and Director, as well as a mentor for the Wheelchair Basketball Academy. She has also served as a Peer &amp; Social Supports Coordinator at SCIA and Presenter for Wheelchair Sports NSW. Jess’s insights are shaped by her life experiences following a tragic motor vehicle accident at the age of 7, which claimed her mother’s life and left both her and her younger sister with spinal cord injuries. In honour of her mother, Jess co-founded the Ree Foundation, an organisation dedicated to enriching and enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities. Her personal journey has deeply influenced her commitment to supporting others facing similar challenges.
Toni Blanch
Toni is a highly experienced specialist occupational therapist with almost 30 years in children’s spinal cord injury and rehabilitation. She annually delivers lectures and tutorials in the Occupational Therapy program at Sydney University, where she introduces wheelchairs and seating in an engaging way. Her goal is to inspire young therapists to explore assistive technology that enhances independence and enriches the quality of life for both users and caregivers.
 
Image:  Jess Pellow provided by SpineCare Foundation

SpineCare's 40 Voices for 40 Years Podcast

To observe World Spinal Cord Injury Day on 5 September 2024, Radio 2SER FM and the SpineCare Foundation launched SpineCare's 40 Voices for 40 Years podcast series.

The podcast series is designed as a resource to inform, empower and enlighten families who have found themselves impacted by childhood acquired spinal cord injury or dysfunction. The launch is a way of celebrating the event through 40 voices from the community, insights from young people who have grown up with their spinal cord injury, their parents and caregivers, as well as academics and clinicians working in the field. Along with personal stories there will be tips, shared experiences on school-life, childhood rehabilitation, bowel and bladder management, going on family holidays, and the latest research and innovations on living with spinal cord injury.

SpineCare's 40 Voice for 40 years is created in the studios of Radio 2SER FM in partnership with SpineCare Foundation.

SpineCare's 40 Voices for 40 Years Podcast
To observe World Spinal Cord Injury Day on 5 September 2024, Radio 2SER FM and the SpineCare Foundation launched SpineCare's 40 Voices for 40 Years podcast series.
The podcast series is designed as a resource to inform, empower and enlighten families who have found themselves impacted by childhood acquired spinal cord injury or dysfunction. The launch is a way of celebrating the event through 40 voices from the community, insights from young people who have grown up with their spinal cord injury, their parents and caregivers, as well as academics and clinicians working in the field. Along with personal stories there will be tips, shared experiences on school-life, childhood rehabilitation, bowel and bladder management, going on family holidays, and the latest research and innovations on living with spinal cord injury.
SpineCare's 40 Voice for 40 years is created in the studios of Radio 2SER FM in partnership with SpineCare Foundation.

2SER Spine Care's 40 Voices for 40 Years Podcast

2SER SpineCare's 40 Voices for 40 Years Podcast

Episode 6  Assistive Technology and Home modifications-the set up right for you

Tune into this poignant episode where we explore the journey of adolescence with a spinal cord injury, with content relevant to both newly acquired conditions and those experienced since early childhood. Our first guest, highly experienced physical therapist Cathi Duggar, brings nearly two decades of expertise from her work with a specialised adolescent spinal cord team. Cathi highlights the vital roles of healthy competition and peer camaraderie in recovery and emphasises the importance of maintaining connections to education and social lives so that teens can navigate critical milestones.

We’re also honoured to hear from Anthea, a parent who has raised four adolescents, including twins, one of whom suffered a spinal cord injury in a mountain biking accident at age 15. Anthea shares invaluable insights on balancing a healthy parent-child relationship while fostering independence, and highlights the sensitivities required to empower young people with knowledge about their healthcare.

Whether you’re a parent, caregiver or healthcare professional, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical advice for supporting teens through their most formative years.

Meet our guests:

Cathi Duggar

Cathi is a highly experienced physical therapist and therapy manager, with 25 years of experience at the US-based Shepard Spinal Center, including 18 years on the specialised adolescent spinal cord team. With a strong focus on development of holistic care models, Cathi tailors her approach to resonate with teenagers, helping them achieve the milestones and rites of passage that are essential during this pivotal stage of life. Her extensive expertise ensures that adolescents receive the support they need to thrive both physically and emotionally.

Anthea McClintock

Anthea is a devoted mother of four young adults, balancing her parental duties with her professional life as a senior executive. For Anthea and her family, life changed abruptly when, on a Saturday afternoon in spring, her 15-year-old son had a mountain bike accident.  His injury was a C4 Complete Spinal Cord Injury.  “At the time, the world stopped and it was hard to understand how we could ever smile again.”

Her son is now studying at a University in Sydney (3.5 hours from home) and is living on campus. Life is good, just different and requiring a few more logistics at times.  Anthea and her family would like to thank the wonderful teams at Sydney Children’s Hospital, Orange Base Hospital, the Paediatric Spinal Outreach Service, and Royal Rehabilitation in Ryde as well as the community of Orange, their family and friends, including precious friends made in the Intensive Care Unit of the Children’s Hospital over many weeks. 

Image by: Anthea Mclintock provided for by SpineCare Foundation

Tune into this poignant episode where we explore the journey of adolescence with a spinal cord injury, with content relevant to both newly acquired conditions and those experienced since early childhood. Our first guest, highly experienced physical therapist Cathi Duggar, brings nearly two decades of expertise from her work with a specialised adolescent spinal cord team. Cathi highlights the vital roles of healthy competition and peer camaraderie in recovery and emphasises the importance of maintaining connections to education and social lives so that teens can navigate critical milestones.
We’re also honoured to hear from Anthea, a parent who has raised four adolescents, including twins, one of whom suffered a spinal cord injury in a mountain biking accident at age 15. Anthea shares invaluable insights on balancing a healthy parent-child relationship while fostering independence, and highlights the sensitivities required to empower young people with knowledge about their healthcare.
Whether you’re a parent, caregiver or healthcare professional, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical advice for supporting teens through their most formative years.
Meet our guests:
 Cathi Duggar
 Cathi is a highly experienced physical therapist and therapy manager, with 25 years of experience at the US-based Shepard Spinal Center, including 18 years on the specialised adolescent spinal cord team. With a strong focus on development of holistic care models, Cathi tailors her approach to resonate with teenagers, helping them achieve the milestones and rites of passage that are essential during this pivotal stage of life. Her extensive expertise ensures that adolescents receive the support they need to thrive both physically and emotionally.
Anthea McClintock
 Anthea is a devoted mother of four young adults, balancing her parental duties with her professional life as a senior executive. For Anthea and her family, life changed abruptly when, on a Saturday afternoon in spring, her 15-year-old son had a mountain bike accident.  His injury was a C4 Complete Spinal Cord Injury.  “At the time, the world stopped and it was hard to understand how we could ever smile again.”
Her son is now studying at a University in Sydney (3.5 hours from home) and is living on campus. Life is good, just different and requiring a few more logistics at times.  Anthea and her family would like to thank the wonderful teams at Sydney Children’s Hospital, Orange Base Hospital, the Paediatric Spinal Outreach Service, and Royal Rehabilitation in Ryde as well as the community of Orange, their family and friends, including precious friends made in the Intensive Care Unit of the Children’s Hospital over many weeks. 
Image by: Anthea Mclintock provided for by SpineCare Foundation

EPISODE 14 Rites of Passage

Episode description

The future is yours, and in this episode, we dive into the journeys of three young men—Jarrod Emeny, Chad Graham, and Dean Pan who each share their expert tips on igniting their passions and navigating the paths to fulfillment many years following spinal cord injury.

First, we hear from Chad, an adrenaline-seeking elite athlete. He discusses the invaluable support from his parents and the innovative solutions he’s embraced in his diverse pursuits, including adaptive CrossFit, gym training, professional wheelchair rugby and hunting.Next up is Dean, a creative high school teacher, who reflects on how his love for music and woodworking led him to craft beautiful guitars. He emphasises the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone, building connections and embracing spontaneity to uncover true passions. Last but certainly not least, Jarrod shares practical insights on moving out of home and the art of traveling, reminding us that not every opportunity is right at our doorstep. He offers valuable advice on the discipline and sacrifice necessary to take risks and fully pursue your passions.

Throughout this episode, you'll uncover recurring themes of joy, fulfillment and the essential role that engaging in meaningful activities plays in overall well-being. Join us for a captivating conversation that encourages you to embrace life’s challenges and passionately pursue what you love!

Meet our guests:

Jarrod Emeny

Jarrod is a highly driven university scholar, international athlete, stand-up comedian and motivational speaker. He graduated with high distinction in Business from University of Wollongong and is currently pursuing postgraduate education while proudly playing US College Wheelchair Basketball under a scholarship at University of Illinois.

Originally from rural New South Wales, Jarrod sustained a thoracic spinal cord injury in a serious road accident on his way to a rugby game at age 17. He has his sights set on representing Australia at the 2028 LA Paralympics.

Chad Graham

Chad is widely regarded as a trailblazer and local hero. As the founder of ROLL101, a charity dedicated to supporting young people affected by chronic or terminal illnesses and catastrophic injuries, he undertook an incredible journey, driving an adapted off-road buggy 4,800 kilometres from Kalgoorlie to Cobar to raise funds for his cause.

In addition to his philanthropic efforts, Chad enjoys spending time with his friends, hunting, fishing and pursuing his passion for sports. He is an accomplished athlete, having represented both NSW and Australia at the highest level in wheelchair rugby. A former BMX and motocross state competitor, Chad’s journey took a turn when he sustained a C6 spinal cord injury in a training accident at age 16.

Dean Pan

Dean is an accomplished, specialist high school teacher in Technology Applied Studies. He has a strong commitment to inclusive education and to facilitating his students to reach their academic potential while building resilience along the way. Dean has also worked as a Paediatrics Peer and Family Support Coordinator at Spinal Cord Injuries Australia, where he demonstrated exceptional mentoring skills.

With a longstanding passion for woodwork, a cervical spinal cord injury at age 14 prompted Dean to explore innovative techniques in using his carpentry tools. His dedication to the craft led him to excel in HSC Industrial Technology: Timber, where he topped his class and beyond school went on to hand-build numerous guitars, as part of a community special interest group.

Image of Jarrod, Chad and Dean provided for by SpineCare Foundation.

Episode description
 The future is yours, and in this episode, we dive into the journeys of three young men—Jarrod Emeny, Chad Graham, and Dean Pan who each share their expert tips on igniting their passions and navigating the paths to fulfillment many years following spinal cord injury.
First, we hear from Chad, an adrenaline-seeking elite athlete. He discusses the invaluable support from his parents and the innovative solutions he’s embraced in his diverse pursuits, including adaptive CrossFit, gym training, professional wheelchair rugby and hunting.Next up is Dean, a creative high school teacher, who reflects on how his love for music and woodworking led him to craft beautiful guitars. He emphasises the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone, building connections and embracing spontaneity to uncover true passions. Last but certainly not least, Jarrod shares practical insights on moving out of home and the art of traveling, reminding us that not every opportunity is right at our doorstep. He offers valuable advice on the discipline and sacrifice necessary to take risks and fully pursue your passions.
Throughout this episode, you'll uncover recurring themes of joy, fulfillment and the essential role that engaging in meaningful activities plays in overall well-being. Join us for a captivating conversation that encourages you to embrace life’s challenges and passionately pursue what you love!
Meet our guests:
 Jarrod Emeny
 Jarrod is a highly driven university scholar, international athlete, stand-up comedian and motivational speaker. He graduated with high distinction in Business from University of Wollongong and is currently pursuing postgraduate education while proudly playing US College Wheelchair Basketball under a scholarship at University of Illinois.
Originally from rural New South Wales, Jarrod sustained a thoracic spinal cord injury in a serious road accident on his way to a rugby game at age 17. He has his sights set on representing Australia at the 2028 LA Paralympics.
Chad Graham
 Chad is widely regarded as a trailblazer and local hero. As the founder of ROLL101, a charity dedicated to supporting young people affected by chronic or terminal illnesses and catastrophic injuries, he undertook an incredible journey, driving an adapted off-road buggy 4,800 kilometres from Kalgoorlie to Cobar to raise funds for his cause.
In addition to his philanthropic efforts, Chad enjoys spending time with his friends, hunting, fishing and pursuing his passion for sports. He is an accomplished athlete, having represented both NSW and Australia at the highest level in wheelchair rugby. A former BMX and motocross state competitor, Chad’s journey took a turn when he sustained a C6 spinal cord injury in a training accident at age 16.
Dean Pan
 Dean is an accomplished, specialist high school teacher in Technology Applied Studies. He has a strong commitment to inclusive education and to facilitating his students to reach their academic potential while building resilience along the way. Dean has also worked as a Paediatrics Peer and Family Support Coordinator at Spinal Cord Injuries Australia, where he demonstrated exceptional mentoring skills.
With a longstanding passion for woodwork, a cervical spinal cord injury at age 14 prompted Dean to explore innovative techniques in using his carpentry tools. His dedication to the craft led him to excel in HSC Industrial Technology: Timber, where he topped his class and beyond school went on to hand-build numerous guitars, as part of a community special interest group.
Image of Jarrod, Chad and Dean provided for by SpineCare Foundation.

Episode 13 The Next stage- pursuing passions and flying the nest

Episode description

Get ready to feel motivated! In this inspiring episode, we dive into the world of recreational and sports activities for children with spinal cord injuries, featuring two dynamic and highly experienced guests: consultant physiotherapist and para-sports classifier Joan Hacken, and sport, recreation, and leisure professional Seb van Veenendaal.

Joan shares her extensive experience in working with young athletes with disability, from grassroots involvement to the Paralympics. She sheds light on classification systems while emphasising the importance of participation over competition. She encourages families to focus on enjoyment and skill development first and advocates for modifying mainstream sports to ensure and engaging with local clubs.

Seb shares innovative adaptations he’s made for kayaking and recounts the joy he’s witnessed during snorkelling, surfing and scuba-diving experiences. Both guests highlight the importance of exploring children's personal interests and the value of "come and try" days, as well as the need to educate teachers and coaches on inclusive strategies.

Joan and Seb’s passion for helping individuals discover their potential shines through as they share heartwarming stories of success and the joy of watching young athletes thrive. This episode is packed with valuable insights for parents and kids, advocating for accessibility, participation and joy.

Meet our guests:

Joan Hacken

Joan is a highly experienced consultant physiotherapist with nearly four decades of expertise in paediatric and adult neurorehabilitation. Her deep commitment to sports for individuals with disability is evident in her volunteer work as a classifier for IPC Athletics, UCI Para-cycling and WTF Para-taekwondo. Joan also serves as an expert witness and is the Director of her own physiotherapy practice.

Sebastian van Veenendaal 

Seb is a highly skilled sport, recreation and leisure professional, with a unique background in adapting activities for people with physical disabilities. With a strong attention to detail, Seb is driven to solve problems through simple and strategic creative solutions to provide access to people of all abilities. He is currently the Business Development and Program Manager at Sargood in Collaroy.



Image by: Joan Hacken provided for by SpineCare Foundation

Episode description
Get ready to feel motivated! In this inspiring episode, we dive into the world of recreational and sports activities for children with spinal cord injuries, featuring two dynamic and highly experienced guests: consultant physiotherapist and para-sports classifier Joan Hacken, and sport, recreation, and leisure professional Seb van Veenendaal.
Joan shares her extensive experience in working with young athletes with disability, from grassroots involvement to the Paralympics. She sheds light on classification systems while emphasising the importance of participation over competition. She encourages families to focus on enjoyment and skill development first and advocates for modifying mainstream sports to ensure and engaging with local clubs.
Seb shares innovative adaptations he’s made for kayaking and recounts the joy he’s witnessed during snorkelling, surfing and scuba-diving experiences. Both guests highlight the importance of exploring children's personal interests and the value of "come and try" days, as well as the need to educate teachers and coaches on inclusive strategies.
Joan and Seb’s passion for helping individuals discover their potential shines through as they share heartwarming stories of success and the joy of watching young athletes thrive. This episode is packed with valuable insights for parents and kids, advocating for accessibility, participation and joy.
Meet our guests:
Joan Hacken
Joan is a highly experienced consultant physiotherapist with nearly four decades of expertise in paediatric and adult neurorehabilitation. Her deep commitment to sports for individuals with disability is evident in her volunteer work as a classifier for IPC Athletics, UCI Para-cycling and WTF Para-taekwondo. Joan also serves as an expert witness and is the Director of her own physiotherapy practice.
Sebastian van Veenendaal 
Seb is a highly skilled sport, recreation and leisure professional, with a unique background in adapting activities for people with physical disabilities. With a strong attention to detail, Seb is driven to solve problems through simple and strategic creative solutions to provide access to people of all abilities. He is currently the Business Development and Program Manager at Sargood in Collaroy.
 
Image by: Joan Hacken provided for by SpineCare Foundation

Episode 6 Assistive Technology and Home modifications-the set up right for you

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