Hell and back

Hi Ben, 

I hope that you get some comments of help here. I will include your forum in this weeks EnableMe newsletter so that more people see it.

Do you also want me to post it on Facebook too? 

Also, call the team on StrokeLine on 1800 787 653 they will also be able to offer advice. Including applying for NDIS support.

Diana 

Hi Diana,

Happy to post in the newsletter.  Let's leave it off Facebook for now though thanks.  

Thanks Ben, I will add your blog into today's newsletter. And if you change your mind let me know.

D

Hi Ben,

Two options we have explored are the TPD within your superannuation fund and job seeker from Centrelink. In 2019 my husband had a stroke at 55 he also had his licence taken and he was a postie. Although Australia Post was so supportive he obviously could not deliver mail as he to suffered short term memory loss and anxiety and like you his vision was impaired and loosing his licence meant no getting on the scooter. This resulted in him leaving a job he loved.

With TPD (total permanent disability) the title does not mean that you can never work again but rather that due to your current health status you can no longer do the job your currently employed in. This process is a bit long winded and I would recommend you get legal help with this. We used Maurice Blackburn who are no win no fee.

Your wife can also be set up on Centrelink so that she can speak on your behalf. I know lots of people who seem to have issues with them but I can personally say that in all our encounters with Centrelink I have nothing but praise and respect for each one I have dealt with.

If your up to it try and make an appointment with Centrelink and they wil give you options appropriate to your situation and hopefully you can get some relief whilst you recover. With job seeker you will require a medical excemption from your doctor as to why you can't work. This certificate differs from the normal sickness certificate but speak with Centrelink first.

Stroke certainly brings along challenges and lifestyle changes but it also makes you strong you might not see that now but you will in time. 

I'm confident you will receive lots of answers here along with the support from like-minded survivors.

Good luck Ben

Lorri

Hey Lorri,

Thanks for reaching out.  I appreciate it.  I will investigate the TPD option further as well as getting further information from Centrelink.  

Cheers, Ben.

Hi Ben,

Thank you for reaching out to the EnableMe community. It sounds like you been through a lot with your TIA’s,  and have a number of unresolved symptoms. As you mentioned, there are avenues of support from the government that can assist. Lorri has made some great suggestions.

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) helps people with a disability who are under the age of 65 get the support they need. NDIS participants get funding for services to help with daily life, be involved in their community and reach their goals.

Navigating the NDIS can be a bit of a challenge. EnableMe has a great video series is designed to make it easier: https://enableme.org.au/resources/ndis

The videos feature young stroke survivors, carers, health professionals, advocates and NDIS local area coordinators. They share some of the challenges of adjusting to life after stroke and explain how to navigate the NDIS to get what you need.

The Allied Health team at StrokeLine are available to talk with you about your journey, and help you access supports. Please reach out to StrokeLine on 1800 787 653 or email strokeline@strokefoundation.org.au. Our operating hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm AEST.

With kind regards,

Leah, StrokeLine

Thanks Leah,

I will watch the videos and will 100% call in to have a chat.  I have been able to listen to a few more podcasts and there is some great info on this site too.  

Chat soon, Ben.