Rehabilitation pathway helping Vicky regain her independence

Patient Vicky Starkie and husband Tony benefit from the Rehabilitation and Acute Stroke Unit Mobility Garden at The Prince Charles Hospital.

Vicky Starkie is working hard to regain her independence step by step after a health incident last year.

As part of her recovery from a stroke, Vicky is re-learning how to eat, walk, talk and use her left hand for things she previously did with her dominant right hand. It’s a tough road back but she’s up for the challenge.

Vicky is one of many patients using the recently upgraded Rehabilitation and Acute Stroke (RAS) Unit Mobility Garden at The Prince Charles Hospital (TPCH).

The TPCH RAS Unit provides a specialised rehabilitation program for adults after a serious illness, stroke, injury or surgery.

It gives TPCH patients working with allied health professionals the chance to practice real-life mobility skills in a safe and supportive environment, helping them regain independence step by step.

The garden includes obstacles for patients to practice mobility based on scenarios they’re likely to encounter in everyday life at home and in the community, such as a sliding door, steps, bridges and stairs.

The quicker patients can build their strength and confidence, the quicker they can return to the things they enjoy.

There is also a covered barbecue area with a shade sail, wheelchair friendly table and seating, creating a peaceful space ideal for patients and family to gather outside the clinical ward environment and share a meal in the fresh air.

The mobility garden is helping Vicky regain her mobility to reach her goal of walking down the aisle with husband Tony for their 40th wedding anniversary soon.

“I’m very grateful for all the wonderful physiotherapists, speech pathologists, occupational therapists and nurses who have cared for me,” Vicky said.

“The best part of my recovery is enjoying this peaceful space outside of the usual hospital environment.

“I’m very thankful and lucky – I’m on the home stretch and should have a full recovery.”

Tony Stephens (above centre) had a heart transplant at TPCH. He and his family are proud to support the hospital that enabled him to get on with life.

This upgrade was completed recently thanks to a $50,000 donation received by The Prince Charles Hospital Foundation and a special donation from the Stephens family.

Tony Stephens had a heart transplant at TPCH. He and his family are proud to support the hospital that enabled him to look ahead and get on with life.

“It doesn’t matter what you’re worth, you can’t buy a new heart,” Tony said.

“Without all these people – the donor family, the hospital team, I wouldn’t be here.”