Leo, a brilliant little Aussie primary school kid hit with profound health tragedies. This was after an extreme episode of illness while on vacation in Tasmania earlier this year. As Leo’s health rapidly deteriorated, doctors decided that they needed to place Leo in an induced coma. They eventually made a diagnosis of astrocytopathy, a rare autoimmune condition that was new to all of them. This unforeseen turn of the century has rendered him largely dependent on a wheelchair.
In addition to this diagnosis, Leo seeks to understand and make sense of life with autism and ADHD. His mom, Michelle Burgess, could not stress enough how vital exercise therapy has been in her son’s recovery process. As part of his National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) plan, Leo works weekly with accredited exercise physiologist Rhiannon Walton to enhance his strength and mobility through tailored exercises.
The Role of Exercise Therapy
Exercise therapy has played a pivotal role as an integral part of Leo’s rehabilitation process. After a three-month stay in the hospital, he needs intensive, specialized help to regain the use of his body. Rhiannon Walton centers resistance and strength training, which are key to Sasha’s needs and overall quality of life. Improving Leo’s health, happiness and independence. Rosie Ingram
Leo is one of almost 14,000 Australians who receive exercise physiology services under the NDIS. These ACE services deliver precised, individualized exercise therapy to help people who have chronic health conditions, neurological disorders and other disabilities. With the healing of professionals such as Walton, their participants can defeat developmental obstacles and build up their autonomy.
“Exercise physiology has made a big difference to Leo’s quality of life.” – Michelle Burgess
Concerns Over NDIS Review
Yet recent changes related to the NDIS have sparked fears from families who depend on these vital services. Changes made through this review of the scheme could threaten access to widely recognised essential therapies – like exercise physiology. The health department stated that the review “was not specifically about its sustainability,” but rather focused on ensuring “benefits to participants, safety and value for money.”
This worrying notion means that even the slightest decrease in funding or resources could drastically limit the scope of Leo’s recovery process. Michelle Burgess voiced her apprehension, stating, “It’s not cost-saving. It’s taking away people’s … chance to live independently and participate fully in life.”
The Future of Exercise Physiology Services
The future of NDIS funding is unclear, leading to fear and distress for families. They fear for the constant, seamless care that their family members deserve and should receive. Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA) has successfully lobbied for the continued accessibility of exercise physiology to all Australians. This type of service is key for people like Leo.
Discussions about the NDIS are yet to die down. Families that depend on these services to ensure the well-being of their loved ones are becoming alarmed at the adverse effect on vulnerable beneficiaries. Exercise on prescription is more than just a gym membership. It’s an important undergirding thread to allow people to pursue and overcome major life obstacles.
