John's Journey: From Outback Roots to Renewed Freedom with Life Care

John’s roots run deep in the South Australian landscape. He’s a fifth-generation farmer, his family having worked the land in Port Pirie for 125 years. Growing up on an 11,000-acre farm, complete with nearly 6,000 Merino sheep, 40-80 beef cattle, and 2,500 acres of crops, John’s life was dictated by the rhythms of agriculture – planting, harvesting, and shearing. “I was married to the farm for 20 years,” he recalls, noting that concerts in Adelaide often had to take a backseat to farm duties.
After his family sold the farm in 2004, John explored new avenues, even attending radio school and hosting a country music show on Tuesday nights. However, his life took an unexpected turn on a warm January night in 2011. While picking up milk for his mum, John’s legs suddenly felt like jelly, causing him to collapse at the servo. This marked the onset of his Multiple Sclerosis (MS) diagnosis on June 20 of that year.
Discovering a Lifeline “Just Around the Corner” at Life Care
John started coming to the Life Care clinic around 2017. His doctor suggested a place “just around the corner” from his aged care home in Adelaide, and to John’s pleasant surprise, that place was Life Care. He couldn’t believe how convenient it was – only 10 minutes from where he lived.
For John, physiotherapy isn’t just an exercise; it’s essential for maintaining his cherished lifestyle. “If I don’t do my physiotherapy, I can’t do all the things that I enjoy, like going to the football and concerts,” he explains. Life Care has given him the tools for staying healthy and active, something he values immensely. “John loves being active, wouldn’t want to be stuck on bed all day not able to do anything.”
He deeply appreciates the dedicated team at Life Care, particularly his Exercise Physiologist, Simon. “Simon, he is a good man, and I am not just saying that,” John says with conviction, highlighting the strong friendship they’ve formed. Gabby and Lilly have also been instrumental in his progress. “The staff here are absolutely excellent. Very accommodating and friendly, and have given John the tools to stay strong and healthy.”
Beyond the Clinic: A Thriving Life and Community
John’s active life extends far beyond the clinic. An avid Port Power supporter and a lover of theatre and music, he’s often found enjoying concerts and sporting events. Recently, he attended a talk during Gather Round at the Old Lion Hotel and even met Charlie Dixon at the Norwood Hotel, experiences he thoroughly enjoyed. “Honestly, I’m absolutely enjoying it,” John beams. “I’m 58, I feel 30 and partying, I have so much more energy now.”
The connections John has made at Life Care have blossomed into lasting friendships. The group he met at the clinic still catches up for Christmas in July lunches and annual Christmas gatherings, usually at the Alma Hotel. Even when other therapists see John in the clinic, they pop in to say hello, a testament to the genuine relationships fostered by the Life Care team. Lisa and Simon, in particular, have been incredibly understanding of his MS, and John looks forward to seeing them every week.
For anyone considering Life Care, especially those with MS or other neurological conditions like Parkinson’s, John offers a resounding recommendation: “Do yourself a favour and give it a go.” He has personally recommended the clinic to many in the MS community, unable to speak highly enough of the support he’s received. Thanks to Life Care, John feels he has “gained another 10-20 years!”
Ready to discover how Life Care can support you in living a vibrant and active life in Adelaide, South Australia?