My new wheelchair was delivered in January. It took forever to come from the UK. It was similar measurements to my old chair but a new brand. It took some getting used to.
The highlight of my year was to be back at Falls Creek in August. I had my first wind-hold day and a wind-hold afternoon. It was a lot of fun to test out my new sit ski.
I was battling a pressure sore for most of the year. I tried healing it at home with dressings, bedrest and help from medical professionals. Mid year I pulled an all nighter at Canberra Hospital Emergency as I waited to be treated with IV antibiotics. It was a horrible experience. In mid September I was admitted to Prince of Wales Hospital via Emergency. I was admitted for 101 days for bedrest and two surgeries. The first emergency surgery found two 3cm length foam inside me that was making me sick and preventing me from healing. It was challenging both physically and mentally. I spent my first Christmas in hospital made easier with a decorated room, a visit from a friend and cookies from the Junior Medical Officer.
I flipped out of my wheelchair on my first day back in my apartment. I hit my head hard. Dad helped me get back in chair. It bled and I had an egg. I went to emergency for pain killers and to have it glued back together. A painful recovery.
I am so thankful to my friends and family for all their extra help this year. It really made a difference to catch up in person, text, talk over the phone, and receive care packages.
Wishing you all the very best for 2023.
Kate Swain 