A Brush with Resilience: Moira's Story of Healing and Hope

Steven, a young man living in the Yirrkala in Northeast Arnhem Land, had his life changed forever in 1987 when he was struck by a car as a pedestrian. Steven was walking on the road at night, returning home after visiting friends when a car approached him from behind without headlights on, and the driver failed to see him. The accident resulted in major spinal injuries that left him with paraplegia. Steven lives in supported accommodation in Darwin that caters to individuals with spinal injuries and serious disabilities. The facility provides constant care for clients with high medical and nursing requirements. This year, with the support of MACC, he decided to share his story and create a campaign to educate young people, particularly those living in Arnhem Land about responsible behaviour on the roads. His campaign will emphasise the importance of pedestrian safety, always wearing a seatbelt, refraining from drinking and driving and safety on and near roads. Steven has been supported by the MAC Scheme with high quality medical and personal care for the past 36 years and will continue to receive this support for the remainder of his life. The MAC Scheme also supports Steven to maximise his independence and quality of life with supports such as his motorized wheelchair which allowed him to get out to appointments and into the community.

Jan was seriously injured by a motor vehicle accident in 1998 when the vehicle rolled, and her right arm was amputated. Since that time, Jan has used a number of prosthetic arms, however recently she decided to try something with more functionality that included a hand. Jan’s new prothesis is custom made for her and specifically designed for tropical conditions. The hand functionality is connected with electrodes using the bicep and tricep muscles to move the fingers and thumb and rotate. It has multiple functional settings, allowing the use of the index finger or thumb to point, type, grab door handles, hold bags, shake hands, open jars and perform actions useful for everyday life. Formerly a lecturer at Charles Darwin University, Jan is now retired and is writing the biography of Aboriginal rights activist Don McLeod. Jan called into the TIO office to show claims consultant Tarryn and the claims team her new prothesis which she is extremely pleased with.

James was seriously injured by a motor vehicle in 2020 resulting in paraplegia. He has been extremely motivated to return to his pre-accident work life in the NT cattle yards and is well on his way to achieving this goal. Jenny, Senior MAC Claims consultant, has been working with James to support his return to work. This includes modifications to his motor vehicle for easier wheelchair access and mobility equipment to assist with rural terrain. James was provided with a Batec electric handbike which is an add-on for manual wheelchairs, providing increased mobility and independence to navigate rural terrain. His wheelchair tyres were also upgraded so they are more resistant to punctures.  James prefers an outdoor role and has recently been appointed to a supervisory role at a mango farm close to this home.