Mind Your Body

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Be Safe at Work    

Don’t go underground and pretend a work place injury can’t happen to you. Spinal cord injuries at work happen – things can fall on your back, you can slip, be squashed or pinned down or just by trying to carry items that are too heavy.

Hear my
story
here

What are you really diving into?

Always check the depth of the water you dive into and don’t push people into the water. Approximately 9% of spinal cord injuries are water related. Take Care.

Hear my
story
here

MY SAFETY PLEDGE TO WATCH MY MATES

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Mind your mates

A spinal cord injury takes an instant, the injury lasts a lifetime. Take care of your mates, don’t push them into something they don’t want to do. Spinal cord injury statistics show 16-24 year olds are at most risk. Think, slow down, be aware, take care of your mates and mind your back.

Don’t Fall for It

Falls can happen anytime, anywhere. Spinal cord injury does not discriminate. You can get an injury from any height – falling off a chair, planking to falling from a balcony. Don’t drop your common sense to be popular.

Read about
my story
here.

Keep Your Eye on the Road

Road accidents account for over half of the spinal cord injuries recorded each year. Don’t text and drive, watch your speed and be alert when not only driving, but being a pedestrian or riding your bike.

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WHEELCHAIR ETIQUETTE
FOR ABLE BODY TEENS!

  • Don't stare if you have a question or want to talk to the person. Go up to them and talk to them.
  • Do not lean on or touch a person's wheelchair without their permission, as the wheelchair is a part of them and it may be seen as an invasion of personal space.
  • Always ask the person if they would like help. Don't assume they can't do something.
  • Talk directly to the person. Do not talk as if they are not there.
  • Be mindful of the time it may take a person with a disability to do everyday tasks.

    Download this fact sheet here
  • It's ok to use words like running or walking.
  • Do not say, "You need a horn on that thing."
  • Do not assume someone in a wheelchair can not open doors.
  • Do not assume being in a wheelchair is a tragedy.
  • If you are going to have an extended conversation with a person in a wheelchair, bring yourself to eye level so that they are not straining their neck looking up at you.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU
HAVE A CAR ACCIDENT

  • Stop if you are involved in a motor vehicle accident. Pull off the road if possible.
  • Stay calm. Switch off the ignition and put on your hazard lights.
  • Check to see if anyone is injured and help them first.
  • Do not stand on the road, stand safety on the pathway.
  • Go to the other driver and provide your name and address to other people involved. Exchange names, addresses, registration numbers and insurance company details. If you do not have pen and paper use the notes section of your mobile phone.
  • Do not admit liability for the accident or cast blame.
  • You must report the accident to the police if there are personal injuries or damage to property whose owner is not in attendance.
  • You must not drive away from a motor vehicle accident

IF SOMEONE IS INJURED

Dial the emergency service Number 000 (free call) and ask for either ambulance, or police, in order of urgency. Be prepared to tell the emergency service:

  • It's a car or motor bike crash
  • Where it's located with the closest cross street if you know it
  • How many people are injured
  • Your name and contact number Contact your insurance company as soon as possible so they can work out with the parties involved whose responsible .

WHAT IS A SPINAL
CORD INJURY?

The majority of spinal cord injuries happen to young men age 15-24. The most common cause of spinal cord injury is transport related accidents followed by fall related incidents, and then sports related incidents.

The spinal cord is an extension of the brain from the neck to lower back and it is protected by the vertebral column, the bony bits you feel in your back. It is made up of millions of nerve fibres that carry messages from your brain to and from your limbs, trunk and organs of your body.

Spinal cord injury happens when pressure is applied to the spinal cord which can be due to traumatic blow to the backbone. If the blood and oxygen supply to the spinal cord is disrupted part of the spinal cord dies. This means messages cannot get through.

Download this fact sheet here

What type of spinal cord injury a person would have depends on where this damage occurs along the spinal cord. There are 2 types of spinal cord injury- Quadriplegia (also known as Tetraplegia) and Paraplegia.

Quadriplegia occurs in the cervical area of the back bone (the neck region) and can affect all four limbs causing paralysis to legs and arms even affecting the ability to pick up a pen, manual dexterity is affected.

Paraplegia occurs in the thoracic, lumbar, sacral region (lower back) and affects the legs.

Damage to the Spinal cord can be complete or incomplete; complete spinal cord injury equals complete paralysis - no movement or feeling below the level of injury. Incomplete spinal cord injury however can mean some feeling or movement below the level of injury. Incomplete spinal cord injury can also mean the person experiences neuropathic pain which can be very debilitating and require daily pain medication.

PREVENT SPINAL CORD
INJURY AT YOUR SCHOOL

The Hunter region has a high number of spinal cord injuries compared to any other regional area in NSW.

Statistics reveal that the most common age group to acquire a spinal cord injury is between 15 to 24 years of age which is nearly 25% of all cases.

Each year in Australia there are approximately 300-400 new cases of spinal cord injury (SCI). 52% of these accidents are transport-related in Australia with males dominating at 83%.

To foster prevention amongst our youth ParaQuad NSW with support of the NSW Mining Advisory Council has developed the "Mind Your Back Pack" program which aims to provide education about Spinal Cord Injury and Spinal Cord Injury prevention.

This program involves a visit to your school by one of our friendly ParaQuad staff members along with a ParaQuad guest speaker who has a spinal cord injury. This presentation will:

  • Educate students about Spinal Cord Injury and Spinal Cord Injury Prevention
  • Communicate risk, safety and prevention messages and tips to avoid a spinal cord injury
  • Educate students on disability aware ness to promote social inclusion
  • The opportunity to listen to a ParaQuad guest speaker who has a Spinal Cord Injury

As part of this presentation Students will be provided will educational resources such as Spinal Cord Injury Facts sheets and prevention messages, Link to Spinal Cord Injury Prevention App which includes a range of online educational resources.

DON'T BE A STATISTIC

  • Water-related accidents accounted for 9% of the SCI cases reported during 2007-08
  • 59% of these cases occurred in people under the age of 35 years.
  • 63% of the injuries were the result of people diving or falling into a body of water.
  • 19%, related specifically to surfing or body surfing

SWIMMING AND DIVING

  • Check the depth of the water before diving in. What you see is not necessary what lies beneath.
  • Stay between the flags when at the beach. This area is not only supervised but assessed as the safest.
  • Pushing someone in the water will cause them to lose their balance and cause them to land awkwardly. Living with the guilt of a bad outcome definitely is not funny.
  • Alcohol or drubs and swimming / diving or boating don't mix. Your coordination, judgment and ability to swim is affected.
  • Always dive feet first.

IN YOUR ACTIVITIES, MIND YOUR BACK AND DON'T BE A STATISTIC

In 2007/08 45% of spinal cord injuries were from sporting activity causes. This icluded:

  • 25% from the major football codes. Football game injuries were as a result of direct contact between the patient's head and/or shoulders and another player.
  • 9% from pedal cycle races.
  • 9% horse-related activities.
  • 73% of these occurred in people under the age of 35 years.

GENERAL SPORTS INJURY
PREVENTION TIPS

  • Always wear recommended safety gear - e.g. a helmet when snowboarding or riding a bike.
  • A warm up and cool down should be part of any exercise routine.
  • Use a spotter in performance activities, such as gymnastics
  • Avoid tackling head first in football, or sliding head-first onto bases in baseball
  • Protect yourself - a secured helmet could save your life when riding a bike, skating or skateboarding
  • Check your bike or skateboard for damage prior to use.
  • Trailing behind a moving vehicle on a bike or skateboard is not only illegal but highly dangerous.
  • You need to hear as much as you need to see. Don't let the music from your head phone drown out safety warnings.
  • Check your path of movement for ob stacles such as rocks or uneven surfaces when riding or skating
  • Use bike paths as much as possible, watch out for swinging car doors and passing cars doors.

DON'T BE A STATISTIC

  • During 2007/08 46% of all spinal cord injuries were from motor accidents.
  • Motorcyclists formed the youngest group with an average age of 32 years.
  • 79% of motor vehicle occupants who acquired a spinal cord injury were male.
  • 44% were in the 15-34 years age range and 89% were driving.
  • 52% of injury were in a vehicle rollover.
  • Only 47% of those injury were wearing a seat belt.
  • Motor vehicle accidents were the most common event leading to spinal trauma in children 0 -16 in NSW with 50% of children being occupants, 24% pedes trians, 12% were bicyclists and 14% were using motorcycles.

ROAD SAFETY

  • Support your spine - Remember to wear your seatbelt.
  • Drinking and driving is illegal - drinking not only affects your vision but your reflexes.
  • If you are a passenger - be conscious of your driver. Getting a lift from someone who shouldn't be driving can be risking your life.
  • Speeding isn't worth it. It takes a lot longer to stop when speeding.
  • Keep your eyes on the road - it only takes one unexpected turn, incident or distraction to cause a crash.
  • Be mindful of medications, some cause drowsiness or can affect your vision so check if you can drive your car.

FALLS

A fall can happen anytime, as a result of tripping over an unforeseen object, falling off a ladder or piece of equipment, off a surfboard, slipping of a balcony, falling of a seat, slipping down the stars or from a diving or rock jumping incident.

  • Spinal cord injuries sustained from falls accounted for 28% of cases during 2007/08
  • 64% of the injurious falls were from a height of 1 metre or more.
  • 38% of high falls were common in the 15-34 years
  • 17% of high falls occurred while working for income using ladders or scaffolding on building sites, during construction work, cut ting trees, or working on transport vehicles.
  • 17% of high falls involved activity such as doing handyman jobs around the home or falls from ladders
  • Leisure and sporting activities accounted for 19% of the high fall cases.
  • Falling from a height resulted in tetraplegia in 50% of the cases and paraplegia in 42% of the cases.
  • Falls from trees, balconies, walls and on the same level (trips and stumbles) accounted for a further 25%.
  • During 2000 – 2005 30% of all NSW spinal injuries in children 0-16 years were caused by falls and sport
  • Many planned adventure falls can go wrong e.g. cliff jumping or dives, and could result in a spinal cord injury. Plan your fall, watch the safety procedures provided by your trainer, look at what lies beneath the water. One slip, wrong move or loss of balance could bring a permanent injury.
  • Keep check of your line of path, scan your environment for potential hazards.
  • Stay under night lights when walking around your home or town at night - poor lighting may lead to falls.

SPINAL CORD INJURY
AND SOCIALISING

How important are your friends to you?

Friends play a major role in the quality of life we live, think of all the good things that come with having friends. Good friends develop our self-esteem; support us in times of need, challenge us to try new things and offer us a fresh perspective. Now imagine you‘ve had an accident that meant you weren't able to spend too long in the sun because you don't sweat anymore, you can't play the same sports anymore because you're legs and arms are paralysed and you need help emptying urine from the bag attached to your leg every few hours. How long do you think it will take before your friends move on and start doing things without you? Not because of anything you've done, just because you can't do thing's the same way anymore.

You're probably thinking - my friends would stick by me no matter what! Now imagine having those problems and trying to make new friends, would this be a hard thing to do?

Social isolation and segregation have historically been the response to people who are considered defective or deficient in some way. Prejudice, bias, fear, and false assumptions create an inaccurate picture of people who have a spinal cord injury.

Download this fact sheet here

THINK

What are you doing this weekend? Could you do it in a wheelchair?

IMAGINE

Imagine how spending a year in the hospital would impact your social life.

TRY

Next time you see someone in a wheelchair, try and keep an open mind as you would with anyone else.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE A MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT

1. STOP if you are involved in a motor vehicle accident. Pull off the road if possible.

2. STAY CALM. Switch off the ignition and put on your hazard lights.

3. CHECK to see if anyone is injured and help them first.

4. Do not stand on the road, stand safely on the pathway.

5. Go to the other driver and provide your name and address to other people involved. Exchange names, addresses, registration numbers and insurance company details. If you do not have pen and paper use the notes section of your mobile phone.

6. Do not admit liability for the accident or cast blame.

7. You must report the accident to the police if there are personal injuries or damage to property whose owner is not in attendance.

8. You must not drive away from a motor vehicle accident

Download this fact sheet here

IF SOMEONE IS INJURED

Dial the emergency service Number 000 (free call) and ask for either ambulance, or police, in order of urgency. Be prepared to tell the emergency service:

  • Whether it's a car or motor bike crash
  • Where it's located with the closest cross street if you know it
  • How many people are injured
  • Your name and contact number

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible so they can work out with the parties involved who is responsible.

FALLS

A fall can happen anytime, as a result of tripping over an unforeseen object, falling off a ladder or piece of equipment, off a surfboard, slipping of a balcony, falling of a seat, slipping down the stars or from a diving or rock jumping incident.

  • Spinal cord injuries sustained from falls accounted for 28% of cases during 2007/08
  • 64% of the injurious falls were from a height of 1 metre or more.
  • 38% of high falls were common in the 15–34 years
  • 17% of high falls occurred while working for income using ladders or scaffolding on building sites, during construction work, cutting trees, or working on transport vehicles.
  • 17% of high falls involved activity such as doing handyman jobs around the home or falls from ladders
  • Leisure and sporting activities accounted for 19% of the high fall cases.
  • Alcohol consumption or intoxication was reported in 13% of cases involving high falls.
  • Falling from a height resulted in tetraplegia in 50% of the cases and paraplegia in 42% of the cases.
  • Falls from trees, balconies, walls and on the same level (trips and stumbles) accounted for a further 25%.
  • During 2000 – 2005 30% of all NSW spinal injuries in children 0-16 years were caused by falls and sport
  • Many planned adventure falls can go wrong e.g. cliff jumping or dives, and could result in a spinal cord injury. Plan your fall, watch the safety procedures provided by your trainer, look at what lies beneath the water. One slip, wrong move or loss of balance could bring a permanent injury.
  • Keep check of your line of path, scan your environment for potential hazards.
  • Stay under night lights when walking around your home or town at night - poor lighting may lead to falls.

TAKE THE QUIZ!

1) How many vertebrae compose the spine?

  • 24
  • 25
  • 32
  • 33

2) What substance are spinal discs made from?

  • Collagen
  • Cellulose
  • Fat
  • Protein

3) What is the name of the protrusions of bone on each vertebra?

  • Protrusions
  • Processes
  • Polyps
  • Pinnacles

4) What is the name of the uppermost spinal region?

  • Thoracic
  • Cervical
  • Lumbar
  • Sacral

5) What does the spinal cord have a consistency of?

  • Bone
  • Bread
  • Cheese
  • Toothpaste

6) Sprains are one of the most common causes of back pain. How can a sprain of the spine occur?

  • Lifting a heavy object
  • Exercise
  • In a fall or vehicle accident
  • All of the above

7) What is the most effective way to minimise the risk of receiving a spinal cord injury when driving?

  • Wear a seatbelt
  • Speed to avoid other drivers
  • Drink caffeine to stay more alert
  • Have a good nights sleep before driving long distance

8) You are riding a bicycle on the road. You should avoid:

  • Indicating when turning/ changing lanes with your hands
  • Trailing directly behind a moving car
  • Using available bike lanes separate from the actual road
  • All of the above

9) You notice one of the wheels of your skateboard is loose and broken as you are about to use it. You should:

  • Take extra care whilst riding the board
  • Quickly tighten the wheel and hope it still works
  • Replace the wheel before using the skateboard
  • Ride the skateboard the same way you would normally

10) If you have a complete spinal cord injury in the cervical region of your spine, which areas of your body would be affected?

  • Your legs only
  • Your arms only
  • Your legs and abdomen
  • Legs, abdomen and arms

11) Your friend is swinging on a hammock and falls off it, landing awkwardly on his neck. He complains of feeling a tingling sensation in his fingers and toes. What should you do?

  • Let him lay down until he feels better
  • Tell him to walk it off, he'll be fine
  • Do not move him, and seek medical assistance to evaluate if he has a spinal cord injury
  • Do not move him, and wait a few minutes to see if the pain and tingling fades

12) When is it okay to rock on your chair?

  • If there are objects behind you to stop your fall
  • If the area behind you is clear so there is no chance of hitting anything
  • You have a friend behind you to catch you if you fall
  • Never

13) At the beach, the water is rough and you cannot see the bottom. How should you enter the water?

  • Slowly enter the water to test its depth, checking for sandbars
  • You can't see the bottom so it must be deep, dive straight in, head first
  • Push your friend into the water to see how deep it is
  • Run into the water until you think it is deep enough to dive under the water

ABOUT THE SPINE

  • The spine, known as the "back bone", is a bony structure which runs from the top to the bottom of the back of the upper body.
  • It is composed of 24 individual vertebrae, and 9 fused vertebrae, resulting in a total of 33 vertebrae.
  • The spine is divided into four distinct sections.

  • Cervical Spine - 7 vertebrae in the neck area.

    • Thoracic Spine - 12 vertebrae in the upper back area, starting from the shoulder blades.
    • Lumbar Spine - 5 vertebrae in the lower back area.
    • Sacral - 9 fused vertebrae in the pelvic region.
  • On top of the vertebrae bones, the spine also is comprised of a multitude of discs, ligaments and muscles, attaching the bones together to create a cohesive whole. These allow the spine to be flexible and strong, allowing for a high degree of movement in the spine.
  • Discs are soft cushions of collagen that sit in between the vertebrae. This prevents the bones from rubbing and acts as a shock absorber that prevents the spine from receiving damage when forces are exerted on it.
  • Ligaments are bands of tough fibres that hold the bones firmly together. They act like a binding rope between all the vertebrae, mainly latching onto the spine on the vertebrae processes (protrusions from the main column).
  • Muscles surrounding the spine stretch or contract to manipulate the spine a vast variety of ways, allowing for us to have a wide range of movement in our backs. They also provide a support for the vertebrae, keeping the spine in an upright position.

The Role of the Spine

The Spine fulfils several vital roles in the body.

  • On the most basic level, the spine provides the structural support for the rest of the body, allowing us to stand in an upright position, and sustaining a lot of the weight of the body.
  • The spine also houses and protects the vital spinal cord, a thick bundle of nerves that carries messages from all parts of the body to the brain.
  • The spine, in its protective role, is vitally important to the optimal functioning of the rest of the body.

What is the spinal cord and where is it found?

The spinal cord:

  • is made up of millions of nerve fibres that carry messages to and from the brain, arms, legs, the trunk and vital organs of the body eg. the bladder, the bowel;
  • Is an extension of the brain running from the neck to the lower back;
  • lies inside the vertebral column (back bone) and is protected by it;
  • is important in the co-ordination and functioning of the body; and
  • the spinal cord is the consistency of dried toothpaste and incredibly fragile.

Download fact sheet page 1
Download fact sheet page 2

changes for a person with spinal cord injury

PHYSICAL APPEARANCE

When you have a spinal cord injury, there is a definite physical change. You may be using a wheelchair and you may look different from the more acceptable "standing up" image. Sometimes personal appearance is what we care about most. It affects the way you have conversations with people, it brings on stares and watchful eyes from people when out and about that are simply just curious as to what happened and why you look different. Sometimes it even changes the way friends view you.

EMOTIONALLY

You may have to rely on people for everyday living activities like showering and dressing, you have to get used to being dependent upon others as well as dependent upon equipment to do “normal” things. Your sense of independence may feel threatened. You may feel frustrated with life.

GETTING OUT AND ABOUT AND SOCIALISING

There are many things to consider when going out, some considerations include:

How will I get there – Do I have a modified car? Is there an accessible bus / train available and a bus / train station nearby which I can wheel to? How much will an accessible taxi cost?

The Venue – Is it wheelchair accessible? – Are there steps? Is the doorway/entrance wide enough for me to wheel through? Accessible parking and toilets? If staying overnight, is it suitable to my needs as a paraplegic or quadriplegic?

FINANCIALLY

Work and education – Will I be able to find a job that pays well enough to support all the extra costs that a spinal cord injury incurs? Will I be able to work at all? Will I be able to find a workplace that is understanding and accessible?

RELATIONSHIPS AND FINDING A PARTNER

Your friends may see you differently. Although true friends will be there for you and accept and love you under all circumstances, for some, it is a change they may not choose to accept. This can leave you feeling rejected and isolated.

When forming relationships, people may not be willing to understand and make judgement. Finding the right people who accept you and all that follows is important in leading a happy and fulfilling life.

Download this fact sheet here

ABOUT PARAQUAD NSW

ParaQuad NSW - the Paraplegic and Quadriplegic Association of NSW - is a not-for-profit registered charity that provides vital care, support, accommodation, information and clinical services to people with spinal cord injuries, their families and carers.

ParaQuad provides services that aim to meet the needs of people with a spinal cord injury and their families at every stage of life, promoting and encouraging rehabilitation, getting back into the community and independence. ParaQuad works to actively tailor services to individual requirements and cultural needs.

Our services include:

  • Spinal Wellbeing Services - Free specialist nursing, occupational therapy and social work services to ParaQuad members with a Spinal Cord Injury;
  • Accommodation services including supported long term, transitional and respite
  • Home-based personal care and support;
  • Information, advocacy and assistance;
  • Continence and related healthcare supplies; and
  • Community awareness, fundraising, training and education.

    Download this fact sheet here

MY PLEDGE TO WATCH
MY MATES BACK

In just one day, an average of one Australian will sustain a spinal cord injury and hundreds more will be injured in other ways. It may have been preventable, just one mistake - a risk that wasn't worth taking.

I WON'T LET IT HAPPEN TO MY FRIENDS OR MYSELF

Today I agree to:

  • Watch the road not my mobile
  • Stay to the speed limit when driving
  • Only use hands free kit when talking in the car if its an emergency.
  • Don't drink alcohol or take drugs and drive
  • Get a lift or take a taxi if are tired and distracted – the risk isn't worth it
  • Not be pushed into something I don't want to do
  • Check the depth of water before I dive into it
  • Be careful when doing sport to wear the safety equipment and be weary about tackles
  • Stick up for yourself, don't give in to peer pressure.
  • Be strong ... Speak up if something doesn't feel safe. I pledge to take care of my mates
  • I will look out for my mates to keep them safe. I will always mind their backs!

WHAT TO DO IF YOU SUSPECT
A SPINAL CORD INJURY

Spinal cord injuries are always serious. At the scene of an accident if you suspect a spinal cord injury it is vital to take great care as this will help minimise permanent disability and increase the person’s potential for recovery.

Signs and Symptoms of Spinal Cord Injury include:

  • Head or neck in abnormal position
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Weakness or inability to move limbs
  • Altered conscious state or shock
  • Loss of bladder or bowel control
  • Nausea, headache or dizziness
  • Tingling or numbness in the limbs and area below the injury
  • Change in muscle tone e.g. limbs stiff
  • Pain at injured site

If you suspect a spinal cord injury take the following steps:

1. Dial the emergency service number 000 (free call) and ask for either ambulance, or police, in order of urgency.

2. Follow DRABC
     D check for DANGER - to you, others and the injured person
     R check for RESPONSE – Is the person conscious?
     A check AIRWAY - Is airway clear of objects?
     B check for BREATHING
     C give CPR – If the person is not breathing start CPR.

3. If the person is wearing a helmet, do not remove it unless it is stopping them from breathing and/or preventing CPR.

4. If any trauma to the neck or back is suspected it is strongly recommend NOT to move the person. If the person is lying on their back and struggling to breathe due to fluid or blood blocking their airway, then WHILST sup porting their neck, having someone supporting their back, roll the person in one movement to their side, whilst keeping full support at all times.

5. Support the neck and immobilise them immediately.

When the paramedics arrive they will take over treatment. Please be aware that any movement to a neck or back that is already compromised or damaged could risk permanent damage.

Download this fact sheet here

DISCLAIMER

Disclaimer: This is general advice only and has been prepared without taking into account your particular situation and needs. Before making any decision based on the information or advice contained, expressly or implicitly in this publication, you should seek advice. To the extent permitted by law, ParaQuad NSW, its officers, employees, affiliates and representatives are not liable for any loss or damage as a result of any reliance placed on the contents of this publication.

SIMON'S STORY

37 year old Simon Jasprizza is a Chartered Accountant and founder of Wheelie Motivated Enterprises. He not only specializes in spinal cord injuries, but also manages bookkeeping, accounting, financial planning and motivational speaking.

Simon is a T7/8 Complete Paraplegic and in a wheelchair for the last 14 years as a result of a fall. Simon has a physical and mental disability.

Born in the Cherry capital of Australia, young Simon completed his education up to Year 10. Simon says, "My parents and I decided that Boarding School would give me a better education and hopefully teach me some discipline, so I trotted off to St. Gregory's College at Campbelltown, fondly referred to as the "College of Knowledge" by my good mate, to complete the HSC. It was easily the best 2 years of my life as I excelled and achieved the top 10% in the State in all my 6 subjects.

"I initially wanted to study Physiotherapy, however with such a high TER in those days and the cost of living and studying in Sydney full-time I chose a different career path in Accountancy. Today I am thankful for that as I would be unemployable as a Physio in a wheelchair," adds Simon.

After successfully completing his course, Simon applied to eight Accountancy farms for a cadetship. He got all eight interview, however after failing to land a job with the first seven he told his mum that he wasn't going to Sydney for the eighth interview. He recalls how his mum encouraged him to attend it. He mentions that he was lucky to land himself a job at Deloitte Touch Tohmatsu (now known as "Deloitte")

This set him up for life. He had a lot going for him during that time; he enrolled in a four year degree at UTS - Broadway, came 10th in his year with a Credit Average (74.90) - just missed out on a degree with Distinction!

In 1996, he started his Professional Year with the Institute of Chartered Accountants. Simon was just one subject away to complete his course and was three months away from becoming one of the youngest client managers at Deloitte at the tender age of 23.

Simon recalls, "It was then that my world came crushing down, the long nights at work, the endless hours of studying, my blossoming touch football career - I had a mental breakdown and ended up in a Psychiatric Ward at Manly." Many years later, young Simon was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia.

Simon clearly remembers the day when it all got worse, "I was admitted to the Young Hospital with depression and somehow managed to fall out a window and broke my back, I managed to stumble 50 metres before my lung collapsed and I passed out. I was found and put in a wheelchair instead of a stretcher, and this decision paralyzed me for the rest of my life."

Call it lack of knowledge or bad timing or just bad luck that this incident left Simon paraplegic and in a wheelchair for life!

"My life came crashing down on me. I did not deal with my new injury very well. To add to this I had constant bladder incontinence and after two failed bladder operations I tried to take my life. I overdosed on over 240 tablets. I should have died or at least suffered permanent brain damage."

With a heavy heart Simon continues, "When I survived and saw the disappointment on my parents' face, I decided I would try and make a go of my new life. I considered myself a coward for trying to take the easy way out. It would not be fair to leave my family to pick up the pieces."

Simon returned to Young in 1998 after eight months of rehabilitation. ParaQuad NSW stepped in. Simon found support and a whole new life thereafter. With a smile on his face he says, "ParaQuad's continence and medical supplies division BrightSky Australia helped me greatly.

Without these products, life in a wheelchair would be more difficult than it already is. Not only that, when I first moved back to Young and got my first motor vehicle, ParaQuad Engineering division modified it with hand controls for less than $2,000."

Simon's true inspiration that helped him get his life back on track is his family and friends, in particular his parents and two sisters who supported him all the way.

In 2005, Simon started Wheelie Motivated Enterprises to help people that received lump sum compensation payments post an accident, to invest wisely for the future. Now a motivated person himself, Simon wanted to motivate others to get on with their life, whether they had a compensation payment or not. Simon said he was lucky as his business is at a level where he can mentor clients at no charge. He says, "With my accounting and financial planning qualifications I could earn a considerably larger income, but I choose to be a giver rather than a taker. Being your own boss means that you can spend more time with family and friends. This is of most importance to me." Work smarter, not harder is Simon's mantra in life.

Wheelie Motivated Enterprises has the knowledge and a team of experts to manage complete financial and personal affairs. The ultimate aim of the enterprise is about growing people's happiness. Having a good network of colleagues in the business world as well as in the world of spinal cord injury, Simon is able to help and point his clients in the right direction for further assistance. Wheelie Motivated Enterprises is not about making substantial profits, it's about enriching lives and knowing that when you put your head on your pillow every night that you have made a difference.

Simon believes strongly in his motto - "Nothing is impossible in this world; with optimism and passion we can all climb those foggy mountains." The go-getter Simon has done two trips to the USA in 2006 to buy an electric iBOT wheelchair. While on that mission, Simon also managed to play in some wheelchair tennis tournaments including a tournament in Canada. His trip involved a lot of planning and he did it all himself.

Simon Jasprizza, truly motivated!

GREG'S STORY

There was a time when Greg Brown, 49, could only ever see himself working as a miner. The father of three from the lower Hunter was a self-confessed "physical nut" who thrived on the physical intensity of working the mines.

His eight year career started in 1982 as a Qualified Development Miner with CSA Mine in Cobar, Central Western NSW. He worked in an underground mine to extract copper, lead, zinc, and silver by drilling blast holes and using explosives to shatter the hard rock. Despite the inherent dangers, Greg loved his job, particularly the workplace community that came with it.

"The mining industry was a dangerous industry back then, with high injury and mortality rates but you accepted it. I saw mates injured or killed but we supported each other through it; we were a tight knit community," said Greg.

Mining went from a dream job to a nightmare one morning in 1989. Greg was standing on a suspended platform bolting the roof, when he slipped and fell backwards off the side of the platform. Still conscious, he rolled over onto his back to discover he couldn't move.

"I was in shock because I'd never been sick in my life. When the doctors told me I was a complete CS-C6 paraplegic, I was devastated. I'd never felt helpless before so it was difficult to accept, but my family helped me through it."

After eight months of treatment, including five months at the Royal Rehab Spinal Unit (Moorang), Greg was ready to go home.

"I was in a controlled environment which was scary. I wouldn't have been able to go home without the help I received from Moorong."

"They taught me to use the strengths I had."

One of these strengths was his fitness, which he has since maintained by lifting weights, pushing his chair around his backyard and helping his wife Irene with housework.

Greg says his accident helped him appreciate life more and he thinks he's a better person for it. Family and friends are very important and he counts himself luck to have their support. Some people aren't so lucky and find themselves cut off from family, friends and community. This social isolation can affect anyone and erode quality of life.

Unable to return to work and missing the feeling of a professional purpose, Greg found a new vocational calling that would help him and the community. He has been a volunteer with the Red Cross Telecrass Program ever since.

Greg works with home bound elderly people to help improve their sense of connectedness, health and safety. His house, now also his office, he calls isolated older people once a day to check they are safe and provide the human interaction that so many isolated people lack.

"I speak to elderly people each day to make sure they're okay and just to chat about life. The recipients are very appreciative of the call. If I'm unable to make contact with them, I notify the Red Cross," said Greg.

Volunteering, for those financially and physically able to do it, offers the volunteer just as many benefits as the recipients of their generosity. It allows you to give back and connect with others in the community by helping to improve the lives of vulnerable people and if you're not working as much or at all, it's a great way to fill in some of your spare time.

Greg has filled fifteen years with great community service, and is nowhere near done yet.

"It's enjoyable and rewarding," said Greg. "I hope to do more volunteer work in the future."

TANYA'S STORY

Tanya Fitch took her last steps 27 years ago when she was just a teenager after she sustained a spinal cord injury at tehe age of 16 due to a car accident in regional NSW. That day, fate changed the direction of her life.

"At the time of the accident, I was a Station Hand/Jillaroo at Comborah near Walgett in the far west of NSW. I was an active, rebel of a teenager. It was the October long weekend and I was coming home from a night out with friends, I lost control of my vehicle and went over a culvert. I was an inexperienced driver on a regional road, in the dark of night with no streetlights, still learning about road conditions.

"The car rolled three times before it crashed and I was trapped, all alone, in the early hours of the morning. I waited over three hours until the SES came to free me and took me to the local hospital. 12 hours later, I was airlifted to the Royal North Shore Hospital in Sydney with a T8 spinal cord injury.

"I had my accident in October but I didn't leave hospital until the following April due to a complex break in my back and complications. I then went to Ms. Wilga rehabilitation and assessed my life, my identity and my future."

The determined 43 year old says that having a spinal cord injury has not discouraged her form achieving her goals. Tanya is a living example of how fate changes one's vision to ensure that all barriers along the road are knocked down and, that the speed bumps along the way are met with fierce determination and courage. Her philosophy is "life is better than the alternative."

Tanya retrained to be a bookkeeper, learnt to drive again and bought a modified car. She returned to Pilliga Post Office. From there, Tanya moved to Moree where she sat the public service exam and in the 1990s. worked as the CES Disability Officer, undertook external university studies then moved into Customer Service roles at Centrelink where she spent the next 15 years.

In 2008 she took medical retirement due to ongoing upper arm and wrist issues and started to explore new activities she didn't have time for when she was working.

Tanya and her partner Troy live on 25 acres outside the town of Moree and breed a menagerie of sheep and birds incorporating 77 aviaries holding over 400 birds from finches to Australian parrots that they breed and sell. Tanya and Troy were actively involved in WIRES where they specialized in the rescue and rehabilitation of native birds and although they are no longer active members, they receive the odd injured bird to care for and release.

Tanya and Troy enjoy gardening and each spring, grow 80% of their own vegetables.

When she's not enjoying he outdoors, Tanya is Administrator of the Moree Sell Buy Swap Free Facebook community for advertising and selling of unwanted items.

Tanya liked to share her positive attitude and love for life with others in the hope that they will appreciate the fragility and beauty of life.

"Don't take life for granted. Embrace it. I have had more opportunities in a chair than before my accident. Prove things to yourself, not other. But more importantly, take care of your body and take health prevention seriously. Life is short and should not be taken for granted.

"I am proud to say that I have worked hard and continue to contribute o society. I do all the things I love to do - I drive (I just got my new van), I go on holidays, sew, garden, am an avid reader and I get involved in the community. I am resourceful and I've had to be. Fate shifts you in a direction, and you have to move in the same direction.

"I have often thought about how my life would be different if I didn't have my accident. If I could go back to change anything, even with my medical decline in health, I wouldn't. I would not sacrifice what I have now in life and the lessons I have learnt."

HEIDI'S STORY

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Heidi was just 22 years old when she was riding home on her motorcycle and was hit by a ute in December 2009. She was looking forward to Christmas, her trip to Queensland for New Year's Eve and continuing her career as a hairdresser. She was only minutes away from her home in Wollongong when her life changed.

This is Heidi's story. "I would ride my motorcycle everywhere; it was my sole form of transport. My mum (who also rides) and I were out for a day of riding in the gorgeous summer weather. I stopped to get a few things from the supermarket while mum went home. "Heading home, I came to a roundabout that I had been familiar with since I grew up in Woonona. Whilst turning right in a roundabout, there was a ute coming up on my left which I spotted a while back and assumed they would give way to me as I'd already entered the roundabout and they were on my left. As I was about to exit, I was t-boned and bulldozed into the guardrail, causing a burst fracture instantly. Along with various other injuries, I sustained a spinal cord injury at level T4 meaning I was paralysed from the chest down with no sensation, feeling or movement below this level."

25% of acquired spinal cord injuries happen

to 16 - 24 year olds

The driver who hit Heidi was under the influence of drugs - he walked away from court with a small charge of negligent driving. Heidi will never be able to walk again.

52% of spinal cord injuries result from a car accident.

After spending Christmas, New Year, her birthday and Easter in hospital and rehabilitation, Heidi was determined to live as independently as possible.

Heidi explains she wouldn't change anything about her new life. "This has happened for a reason - I have grown so much as a person and am so close to my mother. I have a job I love, I'm getting a modified trike, renovating my unit and I'm keen to spread my message so others can learn - whether its prevention or awareness." Heidi came to the Paraplegic and Quadriplegic Association of NSW (ParaQuad NSW) for support with her spinal cord injury.

Heidi is just one of many people who acquired a spinal cord injury after a motorcycle accident. ParaQuad NSW can name many, Maureen, John, Steve, Bruce….. they are more than names, they are now people who use a range of ParaQuad NSW services; accommodation options; accessing our free occupational therapy, social worker or spinal nurse; using our personal carers to help in daily needs; or applying for a ParaQuad scholarship to help with career prospects.

Heidi acknowledges that support is important. "My mum inspired me in the beginning when my accident happened. She was the biggest part of my recovery; to have the right support is crucial. She pushed me just enough when it was needed and we found humour in the situation. It takes a while of â€کit's all about me' attitude for you to feel comfortable with your new disability. Once I got there, my mind was able to think outside my own little square I had grown accustomed to, by asking mum how she felt and what she saw during the six months in rehab. We are now closer than ever; I couldn't ask for a better mum (and never would!). Whoever your support network is - they see you at your rawest moment."

Heidi is one of the "voices" and volunteers of ParaQuad helping to inspire and help others through sharing her story. She admits she misses riding a bike, but has just bought a new modified trike, which will give her more transport independence. "There is nothing like the feeling of riding a motorcycle, the wind in your face, the world passing by and the freedom. Unfortunately the thing we have to worry about the most is other people on the road. I've learnt to never assume people will automatically follow road rules. My only advice is to keep your eyes peeled, ride safely and make sure you have protective gear. My helmet (although severely cracked in several places) saved my life." Heidi has her trike and is on the road again. She is also helping ParaQuad with the "Watch Your Back" school prevention campaign.