AFTER a breast cancer diagnosis six years ago and subsequent spinal surgery, Gyl Stacey decided to re-evaluate her life and career.
The Capalaba woman is using her experiences to contribute to community roles, including being a member of the Parole Board Queensland, chairperson of the board at Spinal Life Australia and joining the spinal cord injury clinical advisory network.
While Ms Stacey has used a wheelchair since she was 15 years old after contracting auto-immune disease transverse myelitis, the result of her more recent spinal surgery meant she had to relearn and adapt to different ways of doing things to try and regain as much independence as possible.
Through National Disability Insurance Scheme funding Ms Stacey was able to get help with daily household tasks, engage a physiotherapist to develop techniques and get support to go back to gym twice a week to strengthen her arms and shoulders.
"My NDIS funding helps with getting to meetings, training courses and related social events and will mean that I can continue to look for further board opportunities," she said.
She also has access to an occupational therapist, has received a new lightweight wheelchair and will soon have modifications made to her bathroom to allow for a roll-in shower.
Ms Stacey now finds it easier to be more social and get out and about in her community.
"I was fortunate enough to be funded for an attachable hand bike which gets me to the local shops and to meet friends at cafes," she said.
Those with a disability can enquire about the scheme by calling 3565 8600 or contacting Carers Queensland on 1300 999 636.
