with his leg movement – unveiling a condition that has progressively become more life affecting. “Instead of getting a promotion, I effectively
ended my career.” Tristan has mobility
and fatigue challenges which require a range of physiotherapy and neurology appointments weekly, but thanks to his apartment’s location and design, he can get where he needs to go. “I don’t have to take a taxi to any of my appointments – my electric wheelchair goes 10km an hour so I can get to medical appointments easily. The tram, the train and my physio clinic – they are all so close by.” Tristan is even able to make the journey most weekends to ‘The Bend’ Motorsport Park, to fulfil his love of car racing. While life has changed a bit now – and the only ambulance sirens are the ones he can hear from his balcony – Tristan is still compelled to help people and give his future plans 110%. He’s now advocating for changes in the disability support space after being frustrated with the system and is in the process of setting up a Men’s Disabled Support Group as well as a not-for-profit called Neuropower. “I want to actually make change, not just sit back.”
Housing Choices SA currently owns 10 SDA properties in both Adelaide CBD and Bowden, both with exciting vacancy opportunities. If you or a family member or friend are a NDIS participant, and would like to know more about HCSA’s SDA housing available, please look at our website housingchoices.org.au/properties. Alternatively, for further information contact Adrian McHugh, SDA Participant Engagement Specialist at sdainfo@hcau.org.au or on 0448 597 465 .
Above: Tristan having a chat with his neighbour Carmel.
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