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Our Families
- Fundraising Target:
- $ 150,000.00
- Donations to Date:
- $ 44,043.64
Messages of Support
Team Sarah-Jane
Sponsored By


Description
In August 2008, I had a massive brainstem stroke. There was a three and half hour delay before I was seen in emergency. Consequently, the damage caused by the stroke has left me with a body that must learn everything again.
The stroke blocked the pathways from my brain to my body. This meant that messages could not get up and back.
After 6 months in ICU and a further 16 months in hospital I returned home in June 2010.
The PA hospital did not accept me for intensive rehabilitation. Despite that, and with the help of my personal trainer, support workers and Mum I have continued to make gains
After:
6 months my lungs had learnt to breath, I could point to a chart.
12 months I was talking, and no longer required the support of oxygen, I am typing on the computer.
18 months I was standing to pivot, able to hold myself up with support sitting.
24 months I was taking some steps with lots of help, able to go from sitting to standing, cleaning my own teeth, brushing my own hair
30 months I can dress myself with a little help and am swallowing my saliva better.
But I am only half way there and with help I know I can make a full recovery.
I have not had anything to eat or drink in almost three years, with intensive swallow therapy I know this gift will return and I will savor every mouthful.
It will take time and a great deal of effort to learn to walk, even with a frame, but I will walk again and each step will take me one step closer to the dance floor.
It will take time before the messages find their way to my vocal chords, giving me back my strong and melodic voice. But, with each word I say I am one word closer to singing in pitch.
People have been so wonderful to me. I make new friends everyday and am inspired by others who have made remarkable recoveries or contributions. I hope in some way I am able to offer others hope and help when needed.
People’s generosity is overwhelming, The team I have around me, Mum, support workers and therapists are helping me to live a full life, while edging ever closer to my goals.
I have lost so much, but everyday I am grateful for the love, help, kindness and experiences that come my way! I have been on stage with Michael Franti and Spearhead and the Foo Fighters in front of thousands and been on Channel 7.
My friend Scott held a successful fundraiser, sparring 100 rounds for me. Not many people have knock out friends, or experiences, like that!
Mum and I are so grateful for all the support, emotional, physical and financial. The money raised to date through this site has been spent on essential equipment and therapists.
We are fund raising now to go the Sheppard Centre in Atlanta.
If you would like to contact me or my Mum, Jane, to help or for more information on my recovery then please contact us through janegapp@yahoo.com.au.
All donations over $2 are tax deductible.
Below are links to my story.
http://au.tv.yahoo.com/sunday-night/video/-/watch/22486718/
Sarah Gapp


