Living my Life with Disability.
Meet Ross, an adult whose journey with disability has shaped his perspective. He graciously shared insights into his life before and after his stroke, offering a glimpse into the multiple activities he now participates in and what his daily life looks like.
What is an unexpected fact or aspect of your life that might surprise others?
In my younger years, I was an avid surfer, exploring the coastlines of South Australia and Western Australia in search of the perfect wave. I even learnt how to build and repair my own surfboards which I still have today in my shed.
What was your life like before your stroke, and how has it changed since then?
Before my stroke, I had a full time job within the sporting industry which I was incredibly active in. It allowed me to travel around South Australia, spending time on the Murray River as well as travelling interstate. During the peak season, it demanded more than a full-time commitment; I dedicated countless hours to work, coaching, and staying active.
Two years have passed since I had my stroke and I originally thought I would miss my old life. I discovered in myself that I have the ability to block things out when they no longer serve me and I can move on.
How do you typically spend your days now?
I spend a portion of everyday dedicated to my rehab from speech therapy, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and working with my personal trainer to make the right side of my body stronger. With my speech therapy I see 2 different speech therapists at Brain Injury SA and also work with Speech Therapist students from the University of South Australia so they can practice and learn from someone who has Aphasia.
Every morning I either go to swimming and do my rehab and practice my swimming stroke or walk along the beach with my 94 year old mother to get my morning cup of coffee.
What new hobbies or activities have you now pursued?
I really want to be a master home brewer, as well as tackle brew in a bag. I have been doing my research, watching Youtube videos on how to do it and think it will be quite good fun.
I also spend a lot of time in my garden and have recently built a greenhouse in the hopes of having tomatoes all year around. Last year during the summer I was picking close to 50 tomatoes a day and was turning them into sauce, salsa, chutney and anything really.
What are your aspirations for the coming years?
I will continue to work on my rehab and make improvements but I would also love to travel. Over the next few years I am going to travel to the places I have been to in Australia and overseas to get a refresher of them. My first place to visit will be Pine Point which I went to as a kid and I would love to see how its changed in 55 years. Other places on my list include Kangaroo Island, South East and the Yorke Peninsula.
