Case study – assistive technology supports Paralympian, Sarah, to live life
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Australian Gliders basketball player and Paralympian Sarah Vinci, played several sports when she was young, but in 1998 when a friend from the Spina Bifida Association encouraged her parents to bring her down to the local courts to try out for basketball, eight-year-old Sarah knew this was exactly what she wanted to do.
In 2006 Sarah became a junior member of the Australian Gliders, and the Team won silver at the 2012 London Paralympics. Sarah says this is her greatest achievement to date. “I had minutes on the court, or skin in every game. It’s been a while, but I definitely think I scored a few goals too,” she adds.
When the NDIS rolled out in the Cockburn area Sarah was ready for a change of provider.
The NDIA Planner referred her to Indigo (formerly Independent Living Centre WA), and as Sarah said, “I called Indigo up, Rachel was the first occupational therapist who came out, and I’ve never looked back. Every occupational therapist who’s worked with me has been amazing. The OTs threw ideas at me I’d never even imagined or thought of, it’s been great”.
Working with Indigo‘s occupational therapists, Sarah has been able to get the assistive technology (devices and equipment) she requires to live with confidence in her home and play the sport she loves.
Last year Sarah was excited to receive a new titanium basketball wheelchair through her National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) plan.
The lighter wheelchair in particular will make a world of difference. “Every bit of equipment I have is valuable, because it helps me live my life, but I love my basketball wheelchair.”
Indigo has been the leading centre of excellence for information, advice and expertise about assistive technology for over 40 years.
The organisation’s experienced team provide tailored allied health and assistive technology solutions to enable greater independence and inclusion for all.
Find out more at www.indigosolutions.org.au or call 1300 885 886.
Case study supplied by Indigo (formerly Independent Living Centre WA)