Hayden (20) is an incredibly resilient young man, who has spent a large portion of 2021 completing his law and film degree from a hospital bed. He’s a dedicated student, but also a lover of music and a keen AFL & cricket fan.
It was only 9 months ago that Hayden was off enjoying the Gold Coast with his partner. Wanting to make the most of their final day of holidays, they decided to visit the beach just one last time. It was the first wave of the morning, a sandbank and a neck injury that resulted in a wave of numbness, which never subsided.
Hayden acquired a C5 level spinal injury, which means he is paralysed from the chest down with limited hand function. With this also comes an array of needs, extending further than the eye can see. For instance, his physical disability also inhibits his blood pressure, circulation, and ability to breathe.
Hayden’s parents very generously renovated their home, creating an accessible space for his newly acquired injury. However, there was a large amount of funding required to make the changes necessary for Hayden to live a healthy, young life:
“For me, part of my injury means my body doesn’t regulate temperature properly, so I’m at a high risk of fevers. It’s also problematic if I get a cold as my respiratory system doesn’t function like normal.”
Thanks to Youngcare’s grants program, we were able to provide Hayden with a brand new air-conditioner to assist in regulating his body temperature. Your generous support has allowed Hayden to wrap up this semester in the comfort of his own home.
“Air-conditioning might be seen as a luxury, but for me it is a necessity. Because of Youngcare I was able to come home from the hospital into my own home and live comfortably here.”
Being at home for Hayden means he can continue his studies and work towards future independence. It relieves the financial stress and logistical requirements of leaving his family home and means he can spend this festive season with his loved ones.
Hayden would like to take this opportunity to extend his gratitude to Youngcare’s community, whose generous support made this grant possible:
“I would just like to say thank you to anyone who has had an input, not just for me but for everyone who lives with a disability. Specifically, the people who are thrust into life with a disability, where one day you might be playing sport and doing everything you love, and the next it’s ripped from you. It was so incredible to receive such generous support.”
