In 2022 Kim Powers suddenly became unwell, and more than 500 days later he remains in hospital.
The Sunshine Coast University Hospital patient has spent the past 18 months in care after losing his mobility due to being struck down with Guillain-Barre syndrome.
GBS is a rare disease where the sufferer’s immune system mistakenly attacks the nervous system.
The 70-year-old spent eight months in the intensive care unit before moving to the rehabilitation unit, where he spends up to six hours a day in therapy.
Now a state-of-the-art power wheelchair, worth $17,299, that was recently donated to SCUH’s rehabilitation unit is helping to improve Mr Power’s quality of life.
This equipment, presented by hospital charity Wishlist, significantly enhances the quality of care and mobility options available to patients undergoing rehabilitation.
It is equipped with advanced features and cutting-edge technology that empowers patients to regain their independence and mobility as they work towards their recovery goals.
Sunshine Coast Health senior physiotherapist Jonathan Vine said the new wheelchair was a game-changer for patients.
“Patients can spend more quality time with their families without relying on them as that source of mobility,” he said.
During his time in ICU, Mr Powers said he spent a lot of time lying on his back.
“Basically …. I was wondering what the hell was going on with my body and you hear so many things,” he said.
“The doctors didn’t really know whether I was going to pull through. It was soul destroying.
“Everyone who is independent, they never think they will end up in a wheelchair. Neither did I.
“But when it hit me (the loss of mobility), gee it was bad.
“By using a powered wheelchair, it took the sharpness off my brain. I feel like now, life is ahead of me.”
The new wheelchair has been such a help that Mr Powers is now rallying the community to give to Wishlist, in the hopes of funding two additional power wheelchairs to allow greater independence to long-stay patients.
“I can’t thank the rehabilitation team enough for their treatment and kindness,” he said.
“I’m doing pretty good now. I’ve got through it (rehab) so far, so I’m hoping to keep going.”
He is hoping to get back to his home in Buderim before Christmas.
The power wheelchair was funded by Wishlist’s corporate partner Sunshine Toyota and community donations.
To donate click here.
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