Jane Neubecker – Active Monash Attendant Support Program Participant.
Published on 30 November 2023
International Day of People With Disability is a United Nations awareness day, held globally on the 3rd of December each year. The purpose of the day is to increase awareness, visibility and inclusivity of people living with a disability that may be physical and nonphysical, hidden, or visible. Did you know that according to 2021 Census results, 5.8% of residents in Monash need support with core activities? This is a 1% increase compared to the 2016 Census Data. This is where programs at Active Monash, like our Attendant Support Initiative (ASI), can help our community in living a more active and connected life, so they can live by our Vision – Participate Your Way.
In celebration of International Day of People With Disability, we interviewed one of our ASI Program Participants, Jane, as well as one of our Learn To Swim Teachers, Nikita. We are honoured to share their stories.
What is your disability/disabilities?
I have an acquired brain injury as a result of a motorcar accident in America. I was on a blind date when both my date and I were struck by a car while walking. The driver was a 16-year-old out for a joy ride with friends. My date escaped with a broken leg, but I was not so lucky.
How old were you when you were first diagnosed? What was that like for you / how did it impact or change your life?
I was 22 years old when I was involved in the accident (37 years ago). Rehabilitation began shortly after, and it has been a trying time even since. It greatly changed my life. Before my accident I was a nurse and an athlete. The acquired brain injury meant that I could no longer continue with nursing. It also impacted my ability to drive, as well as participate in activities that I loved like jogging, tennis, and sailing.
How important is it to you to be able to access programs to help stay active and engaged with the community?
It is very important to me to be able to access these programs. I come twice a week; this is my main activity for the week. I really look forward to it each week. I am familiar with the teams and enjoy my time in the program.
Why did you join the ASI program at Active Monash?
I joined the program in October 2022. It was the closest pool that had a program to support me. As a person in a wheelchair, it’s challenging to access the pool on my own. The Attendant Support Worker helps me get into the pool to move my body.
What were you hoping to achieve in the program?
I want to keep my body active and be as fit as I possibly can.
What has your experience been like so far?
I have really enjoyed the program. I think it's a lovely centre to come to exercise, the team are friendly, and I look forward to coming each week.
What does it mean to you to be a part of this program?
It really means a lot to be a part of this program. I honestly do not believe I would be able to do my program anywhere else with this level of support and welcome.
What would you like the community to know about living with a disability?
It’s no picnic. Each day has its own challenges. But it has been an absolute pleasure to come along and be able to do my exercises in the pool with the rest of the community.