Recently I have been watching and reading stories about young and well mature men and women coming out of the closet and finally accepting who they are, but what has been more alarming is the stories of young people who have their whole life a head of them taking the option of ending their life because of all the hate that seems to be about.
Now most of these stories have been coming out of the US but I have read a few that have come from our own backyard, yes down here in Australia and it just saddens me to think that this is the only way they can finally end painful suffering they have gone through because of these narrow minded people who continue to make their life a living hell through their bullying and berating tactics.
What I don't understand is how very little any government is not willing to step in and try to help end this sufferring. Yes we do have Sydney Mardi Gras this year, which aims to try and say to the whole community in a whole that we are here, we are queer and we are proud, but for me this is not the case this year because the organisers and committee of Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras (formerly New Mardi Gras after the collapse just a little over 10 years ago) decided to change the event name from Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Festival to Sydney Mardi Gras!
This to me is a bit of a slap in the face the organiser dropped what is essentially a parade and a campaign for awareness and civil rights movement for the GLBTQI community. this to me would help fuel some hate campaigners because they, in my belief, would try to drown out the support most of the community have given to the GLBTQI community for years.
I know it seems like I am ranting, in which I am about the lack of support or even recognition of these problems by governments and organisations, yet there have been some progress in certain areas to change and make same sex relationships recognised under certain laws, but it is essentially not enough. More has to be done.
The problem is what? How do we try to rectify these matters of bullying and harrasment and if anything how can we support the victim and punish the offender in a matter that would help them change their ways and if that doesn't work, how do we make sure that the offender does not make the same offense again with a new or in some case the same victim?
There are options, in which Mother Moster aka Lady Gaga has tried with President Barack Obama in trying to convince the president to introduce law for the introduction of tougher discrimination laws within the USA, but here in our own country such discrimination laws are state based legislation and if anything they either have big gaps or wholes in which victims of same sex bullying or harrasment will fall through and be let down by an undersighted problem.
The question is now, how to we change it to ensure no one falls through these gaps? Well again that is a good question as it does depend on whether state governments are willing to take the time and effort to support and make change, but this again take in most cases to much time!
Friday, April 19, 2013
Sunday, April 14, 2013
Opal card not so useful for all
Ok so yesterday I noticed at Town Hall Station that one of the barriers (by the name of " Charlie Barrier" near the lifts for platforms 1, 2 & 4) had the new opal card readers. Now it looked quite impressive being all shiny, new with a opal coloured light above, but I noticed instantly a huge if not major big stuff up by the transport minister, Cubic Transportation Systems and Transport for NSW.
What's the issue I hear you ask, well let me put it this way, if you were in a wheelchair and could not properly usetilse your arms (or legs in some instances), relating to your disability, then you honestly could not touch on or off your Opal Card without having someone either go rummaging for your opal card through your personal belongings let alone have a carer have your OPAL card with them.
So why would Cubic Transportation systems let alone the NSW Government or Transport for NSW have not thought about how this will impact the disability community and commuters who travel in most cases by themselves for work and want to maintain their independence completely baffles and surprises me.
It just goes to show how literally top management/ceo's of transport departments, current government representatives in NSW and the private sector are so far out of touch. Yeah ok its great that our transport systems are somewhat wheelchair accessible, but we are talking about a system that by 2014 will be fully in force, with tickets no longer in use and the only way to pay for fares is via this OPAL card its any wonders why people can't think what EVERYONE'S requirements when it comes to implementing transport requirements instead of just implementing and thinking about the actual issues later.
I am sorry but it's just plain stupidity and not acceptable at all. Not at least in this day and age when you think about it. But instead I am going to offer a suggestion I did put to a couple of my friends at CityRail, who I might add, reckon it could be some feasible if not looked at as an alternative additional option.
My suggestion/option is to have like an etag thing that is the exactly the same thing as the OPAL Card, but has a slightly stronger signal that can be read by a scanner (somewhat like the etag system for cars but for wheelchair passengers) that is only applied for by people who actually require them (so people with disabilities that require the use of a wheelchair, walking sticks, crutches and or/a walking frame). The card would be put on a lanyard or kept in the pockets of the passenger and the scanner would be located at the top of the wide gate prior to openning with a loud beep given to indicate the pass has been accepted. There would also be a little screen either at the top if not at one side where the passenger can see the balance display.
Of course this is merely a suggestion, but one which in all honesty should be looked into as a matter of urgency and I would love for the Minister for Transport NSW, Gladys Berjiklian, to either talk to the disability community about these issues and find out suggestions how to better plan instead of looking like a right old mess - which in someways she actually does quite well on her own, don't you think ;)
Below is an example of the new Opal Card scanner located right next to the wide gate at Town Hall Station.
What's the issue I hear you ask, well let me put it this way, if you were in a wheelchair and could not properly usetilse your arms (or legs in some instances), relating to your disability, then you honestly could not touch on or off your Opal Card without having someone either go rummaging for your opal card through your personal belongings let alone have a carer have your OPAL card with them.
So why would Cubic Transportation systems let alone the NSW Government or Transport for NSW have not thought about how this will impact the disability community and commuters who travel in most cases by themselves for work and want to maintain their independence completely baffles and surprises me.
It just goes to show how literally top management/ceo's of transport departments, current government representatives in NSW and the private sector are so far out of touch. Yeah ok its great that our transport systems are somewhat wheelchair accessible, but we are talking about a system that by 2014 will be fully in force, with tickets no longer in use and the only way to pay for fares is via this OPAL card its any wonders why people can't think what EVERYONE'S requirements when it comes to implementing transport requirements instead of just implementing and thinking about the actual issues later.
I am sorry but it's just plain stupidity and not acceptable at all. Not at least in this day and age when you think about it. But instead I am going to offer a suggestion I did put to a couple of my friends at CityRail, who I might add, reckon it could be some feasible if not looked at as an alternative additional option.
My suggestion/option is to have like an etag thing that is the exactly the same thing as the OPAL Card, but has a slightly stronger signal that can be read by a scanner (somewhat like the etag system for cars but for wheelchair passengers) that is only applied for by people who actually require them (so people with disabilities that require the use of a wheelchair, walking sticks, crutches and or/a walking frame). The card would be put on a lanyard or kept in the pockets of the passenger and the scanner would be located at the top of the wide gate prior to openning with a loud beep given to indicate the pass has been accepted. There would also be a little screen either at the top if not at one side where the passenger can see the balance display.
Of course this is merely a suggestion, but one which in all honesty should be looked into as a matter of urgency and I would love for the Minister for Transport NSW, Gladys Berjiklian, to either talk to the disability community about these issues and find out suggestions how to better plan instead of looking like a right old mess - which in someways she actually does quite well on her own, don't you think ;)
Below is an example of the new Opal Card scanner located right next to the wide gate at Town Hall Station.
Transport for all - Not really for all
Ok so first off, I want to point out that this is in now poking or having a go at the honest and wonderful staff that actually do care and help people with disabilities, assisting them get on the various forms of public transport in and around NSW, but more so having a go at the incompetent staff who don't care and are honestly rate just bum around mostly.
Back in March, I attended a public transport forum called Transport for All, at Parliament House after speaking in late 2012 with the shadow transport minister, Penny Sharpe (NSW Labor) in which the forum talked and had general discussion regarding the lack of transport facilities and accessibility not only on the CityRail/CountryLink rail services, but the various ferry, bus and taxi operators and the issues which are having a profound affect on anyone with a disability trying to utelise the somewhat ok public service systems we have.
I have to say that whilst the discussion where productive and some pretty fantastic solutions were suggested, that the issues will still remain. Don't get me wrong, Penny Sharpe and her Labor colleague/Party have vowed to improve services for people with disabilities, but the current NSW Liberal Government seem to be hell bent on sticking to a disability action plan that had no or absolutely little consultation with community.
Yet to them this is all part of their fixing the trains, which honestly, If you ask me, isn't being fixed at all. Why? well it all comes down to $$$ and whether or not politicians of the current government really want to shake up services that could lead to strike action and voter dis-satisfaction that could see their seat gone to the other party. to me, that is just sad policy.
The old saying 'build it and they shall come and be happy' no longer works because its more than just about building some lifts and revamping or refurshing and completely rebuilding a station to make it accessible.
No there is a lot more that come down to it, such as staff training, trains becoming more wheelchair accessible, signage much more clearer and somewhat cleaned up so there isn't as many what I cann information overload, which only leads to confusion and frustration.
Now I hear you say that it all does cost $$$ and that money is better spent elsewhere, and whilst I may agree slightly, public transport for people with disabilities is an essential service because they can't drive and need to either go to work or go to hospital or various health specialist appointments.
What is also needed is campaigns advising fellow commuters about people with disabilities and to give up their seat for those fellow passengers that need them, or to stand clear of ramps that station staff or guards place down so someone in a wheelchair or scooter can get on and off a train safely without causing harm to staff, fellow commuters and themselves.
We also need clearer audio announcements on older trains regardless of costs, as well as continuing the refurbishment program of that Tangrara fleet to remove roles that are in the way of wheelchairs and scooter. Also tactile tiles need to placed at all stations, more covered awning areas and lighting.
There is also a need for the roll out and more accessible toilet facilities that ustelise MLAK or Master Lock Access Key system. Also a much more faster and accessible application prcoess for people requiring the MLAK Key. I mean I got mine through a staff member at one of my regular stations because they said I really do need one, yet I have applied for one numerous times but nothing, not one thing stating if I was successful or not.
Staff training and more clearer signs and audio announcements are required now and whilst some announcements have become better in the last month on my travels on the train, there is room for improvement.
Whilst I know most of these suggestions can't be fixed immediately, they can be fixed over time to help drag the cost out to a more reasonable amount as well as give more time for the issues to be fixed lrogressively without delays (or at least as many delays).
The only thing I now really waiting for the the damned Opal Card to come to the western line, now that should be something to really look forward to and help streamline one part of my travel requirements to say the least, but that too alas seems like it will never come if not be further and further away for the roll out to occur!
Just to also show you an insight to what is a daily occurrence not only for me, but for fellow disabled commuters on Sydney trains, the ABC followed me for a day and this video (kindly uploaded by Penny Sharpe) gives you brief if not somewhat eye opening experience of what it is like to have a disability and travel on public transport.
You can view the ABC News NSW video by clicking here.
Back in March, I attended a public transport forum called Transport for All, at Parliament House after speaking in late 2012 with the shadow transport minister, Penny Sharpe (NSW Labor) in which the forum talked and had general discussion regarding the lack of transport facilities and accessibility not only on the CityRail/CountryLink rail services, but the various ferry, bus and taxi operators and the issues which are having a profound affect on anyone with a disability trying to utelise the somewhat ok public service systems we have.
I have to say that whilst the discussion where productive and some pretty fantastic solutions were suggested, that the issues will still remain. Don't get me wrong, Penny Sharpe and her Labor colleague/Party have vowed to improve services for people with disabilities, but the current NSW Liberal Government seem to be hell bent on sticking to a disability action plan that had no or absolutely little consultation with community.
Yet to them this is all part of their fixing the trains, which honestly, If you ask me, isn't being fixed at all. Why? well it all comes down to $$$ and whether or not politicians of the current government really want to shake up services that could lead to strike action and voter dis-satisfaction that could see their seat gone to the other party. to me, that is just sad policy.
The old saying 'build it and they shall come and be happy' no longer works because its more than just about building some lifts and revamping or refurshing and completely rebuilding a station to make it accessible.
No there is a lot more that come down to it, such as staff training, trains becoming more wheelchair accessible, signage much more clearer and somewhat cleaned up so there isn't as many what I cann information overload, which only leads to confusion and frustration.
Now I hear you say that it all does cost $$$ and that money is better spent elsewhere, and whilst I may agree slightly, public transport for people with disabilities is an essential service because they can't drive and need to either go to work or go to hospital or various health specialist appointments.
What is also needed is campaigns advising fellow commuters about people with disabilities and to give up their seat for those fellow passengers that need them, or to stand clear of ramps that station staff or guards place down so someone in a wheelchair or scooter can get on and off a train safely without causing harm to staff, fellow commuters and themselves.
We also need clearer audio announcements on older trains regardless of costs, as well as continuing the refurbishment program of that Tangrara fleet to remove roles that are in the way of wheelchairs and scooter. Also tactile tiles need to placed at all stations, more covered awning areas and lighting.
There is also a need for the roll out and more accessible toilet facilities that ustelise MLAK or Master Lock Access Key system. Also a much more faster and accessible application prcoess for people requiring the MLAK Key. I mean I got mine through a staff member at one of my regular stations because they said I really do need one, yet I have applied for one numerous times but nothing, not one thing stating if I was successful or not.
Staff training and more clearer signs and audio announcements are required now and whilst some announcements have become better in the last month on my travels on the train, there is room for improvement.
Whilst I know most of these suggestions can't be fixed immediately, they can be fixed over time to help drag the cost out to a more reasonable amount as well as give more time for the issues to be fixed lrogressively without delays (or at least as many delays).
The only thing I now really waiting for the the damned Opal Card to come to the western line, now that should be something to really look forward to and help streamline one part of my travel requirements to say the least, but that too alas seems like it will never come if not be further and further away for the roll out to occur!
Just to also show you an insight to what is a daily occurrence not only for me, but for fellow disabled commuters on Sydney trains, the ABC followed me for a day and this video (kindly uploaded by Penny Sharpe) gives you brief if not somewhat eye opening experience of what it is like to have a disability and travel on public transport.
You can view the ABC News NSW video by clicking here.
You can also view a copy of my video talking about the issues at the Transport for All forum on March 15th at NSW Parliament house by clicking here.
Was Margaret Thatcher really that bad?
Earlier this week, Britain lost it's one and only former female Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher but instead of mourning her passing, they are instead partying and rejoicing and this somewhat concerns me greatly.
They are rejoicing because what they believe was and still will always be "the wicked witch" to be finally dead. I mean they have ensured that an old song from the Movie, Wizard of Oz is spear-heading to the top of charts with "Ding, Dong, the witch is dead".
I have to say this concerns me and also make me feel very sorry and upset of the family who have lost such a dearly loved person in their lives, but have to put up with such hatred and utter nonsense. It make me wonder if some people actually have a brain or if they just seem to think that this kind of behavior is acceptable at al..
For me it is appalling, but with that said, I haven't personally been affected nor am part of the country she once ruled over so to speak.
But I do want to, however, reflect on some of the things I think she has done well at for Britian and its fellow countrymen, women and children and how her legacy still somewhat lives within today's modern political underworld I guess you can say.
Looking at what dubbed 'Iron Lady', Margaret Thatcher did in some ways help give Britain the good, well deserve kick in the ass I think it needed back then. I mean Britain was down, crying like a baby who needs their nappy change or to be fed or burped, but no one knew what to do back then.
Yeah she did massive budget cuts in which did cut services and jobs through what was a bad recession, but it doesn't compare to the current recession nowadays that Britain is experiencing and only then that is because the pound is where it should be whilst the Euro dollar is highly inflated, but I digress.
She lead Britain into the 21st century, having cut spending of which needed to be done to bring the country back into the green or black by financial standards. She also stood stedfast and firm against the Argentinians when they tried to invade the Falkland Islands.
She also made it clear that women can do the same job as men and become Prime Ministers or Ministers. She wasn't scared to get her voice across and I think that did in some degree scare the male politicians, because there was a change of the guard.
I do also believe that she wasn't afraid to tell the truth to the people as well and explain her reasons, which in this day and age is lacking quite a bit if you ask me.
So as you can see, I do honestly believe Margaret Thatcher did do some good things and make Britian once again a stronger and more prouder nation, that is until now, with those people who want to be so stupid singing and praising her death. To me that is just wrong and shows how bad their society really actually is.
So I say this, is it really and honestly worth the bad naming, reputation and down right despicable act to praise such a wonderful person's death over some little if not old or previous experience?
I would say in all honesty no, but I shall leave you to ponder that thought deeply.
I would also like to take this opportunity to pass on my sympathies and condolences to the family and friends of the late former Prime Minister of Britain and Baroness Margaret Thatcher. May she finally be at rest and out of any pain or suffering. My thoughts are with you during this hard and extremely emotional time
They are rejoicing because what they believe was and still will always be "the wicked witch" to be finally dead. I mean they have ensured that an old song from the Movie, Wizard of Oz is spear-heading to the top of charts with "Ding, Dong, the witch is dead".
I have to say this concerns me and also make me feel very sorry and upset of the family who have lost such a dearly loved person in their lives, but have to put up with such hatred and utter nonsense. It make me wonder if some people actually have a brain or if they just seem to think that this kind of behavior is acceptable at al..
For me it is appalling, but with that said, I haven't personally been affected nor am part of the country she once ruled over so to speak.
But I do want to, however, reflect on some of the things I think she has done well at for Britian and its fellow countrymen, women and children and how her legacy still somewhat lives within today's modern political underworld I guess you can say.
Looking at what dubbed 'Iron Lady', Margaret Thatcher did in some ways help give Britain the good, well deserve kick in the ass I think it needed back then. I mean Britain was down, crying like a baby who needs their nappy change or to be fed or burped, but no one knew what to do back then.
Yeah she did massive budget cuts in which did cut services and jobs through what was a bad recession, but it doesn't compare to the current recession nowadays that Britain is experiencing and only then that is because the pound is where it should be whilst the Euro dollar is highly inflated, but I digress.
She lead Britain into the 21st century, having cut spending of which needed to be done to bring the country back into the green or black by financial standards. She also stood stedfast and firm against the Argentinians when they tried to invade the Falkland Islands.
She also made it clear that women can do the same job as men and become Prime Ministers or Ministers. She wasn't scared to get her voice across and I think that did in some degree scare the male politicians, because there was a change of the guard.
I do also believe that she wasn't afraid to tell the truth to the people as well and explain her reasons, which in this day and age is lacking quite a bit if you ask me.
So as you can see, I do honestly believe Margaret Thatcher did do some good things and make Britian once again a stronger and more prouder nation, that is until now, with those people who want to be so stupid singing and praising her death. To me that is just wrong and shows how bad their society really actually is.
So I say this, is it really and honestly worth the bad naming, reputation and down right despicable act to praise such a wonderful person's death over some little if not old or previous experience?
I would say in all honesty no, but I shall leave you to ponder that thought deeply.
I would also like to take this opportunity to pass on my sympathies and condolences to the family and friends of the late former Prime Minister of Britain and Baroness Margaret Thatcher. May she finally be at rest and out of any pain or suffering. My thoughts are with you during this hard and extremely emotional time
Sunday, December 23, 2012
What a year!
Well with Christmas just a couple of days away and the New Year just over a week or so away, I thought it would be a good time to reflect what 2012 has meant for me at least.
The year started off with frantic panic of major back surgery relating to my disability (laminictamy - detethering of my spinal cord relating to Spina Bifida - my disability for those who do not know). Now most people who are reading this (being close friends and family) would know that the surgery was at least 60% successful in which is did resolve at least 60% of the back pain I was experiencing over the last 2 to 5 years.
Although it was successful there are still some outstanding issues but in hindsight, the positives outweigh the negatives. I have been able to walk around home unaided most of the time and do house work for about 1-2 hours (slowly of course) and walking wise I can walk with my walking crutches for about 1-2 hours (depending on how I feel) but still use my wheelchair to get around the city and too and from the office.
I would like to point out that I was in fact walking around my work christmas party unaided, but walking as if I was a penguin............I think. I know quite a few colleagues were astounded. Thats what hard work of going to and doing physiotherapy, the gym and occasional visits to the pool.
Highlight for me was being able to go back to work, although in a limited capacity (part-time work) but never the less, it was a highlight to finally catch up and see the wonderful work colleagues and friends after being away a heck of a lot.
So basically the first half of the year was recovery from major back surgery and continual physio and hydrotherapy.
The second half of the year did take a bit of a sad start, when an old school friend who had similar yet the same kind of Spina Bifida pass away suddenly due to a massive infection that shut some of her organs down. It was even made worse when trying to track down other fellow ex-students that it was in-fact discovered that another student had passed away in February of the previous year (2011) suddenly and without anyone really knowing or confirming this.
Due to this I am working on doing a reunion as well as a memorial function and am putting the first part of that into place now ready for the new year.
The second half was brightened up a lot with a good friend, Sandra, coming down under for 5 weeks from Canada. Did the usual tourist stuff, visits in the city and around the harbour, went to Taronga Zoo (which has changed a heck of a lot since I last visited over 8 years ago or so). Also went to the Blue Mountains, parts of the Central Coast and up to the NSW North Coast to Coffs Harbour for a week, visiting places such as Dorrigo, Grafton, Uranga, Byron Bay (caught up with our very good friend Anne Marie aka Queensland Mummy and her friend for the day) as well as Coffs Harbour itself, partaking in coast out (basically like mardi gras but much more intimate I think).
That in itself was interesting when on the way heading back home, out damn car broke down just outside of Taree in which we had to stay overnight (as the car's waterpump broke causing damage to other parts and setting us back $605!!!) but all in all was excellent trip. I have since fallen in love with Coffs Harbour because of its location - you can't beat the ocean views as well as the small city/country feel it has as well.
I also met with the NSW Labor Transport Minister, Penny Sharpe, to help organise a disability transport forum, which is still in the planning stages and we are hoping to have a forum running and announced in about March/April/May next year.
I also have had a re-fitting for my new wheelchair, which means I can finally get rid of the damn colours wheelchair (which is what I have been loaning from Northcott Disability Services since November last year after my own colours wheelchair broke down). Fingers crossed this can all be fixed within 1-2 months of next year but I think I have just jinxed myself on this one
Then we come to the low part of which happened on Monday morning whilst heading into work with Brett - someone rear ended our car, causing my back to tense up and me screaming in back because of the sudden jolt. Wasn't happy because Brett had to call the Paramedics to come out in which spent the better part of Monday in Westmead Hospital (I despise that place) and went from being admitted at 4.30pm to being discharged over an hour later. That my friend is what you call speedy admission/discharge as well as showing you how bad the hospital/health system has gotten in NSW and Australia I believe.
Also after the disasterous Monday I had, I was advised by Ausdroid (www.ausdroid.net) that I had won a new Motorola Razr M thanks to my entry. Ausdroid's competition asked "you to tell us, in 25 words or less, what made you faster, smarter or stronger". My entry went a little bit like this "Not allowing my disABILITY stopping me from being who I am and showcasing what I can do instead of what I can’t." I have to say I was surprised and shocked I had won because I haven't really won anything in my life before hand!! I have been using the phone for a couple of days now and I am loving it, but I will go on more about Android and iOS in another post.........maybe!!
So now we come to Christmas and it's going to a busy time, spending Christmas with friends and family in various places whilst trying to have some down time for us both. So on that note, I think I have said everything I wanted to share. I hope your 2012 year has been fantastic, crazy and awesome as much as mine (although mine is a little bot boring now I have re-read it again, but oh well, you get that I suppose).
I would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year for 2013!! May the new year bring you joy, happiness and may all your dreams and wishes come true not only for the holidays, but the new year too.
Happy Holidays Everyone. Till next time be safe, drive carefully if your driving on the roads and enjoy the festive season with family and friends!!
Seasons Greetings
Alex
The year started off with frantic panic of major back surgery relating to my disability (laminictamy - detethering of my spinal cord relating to Spina Bifida - my disability for those who do not know). Now most people who are reading this (being close friends and family) would know that the surgery was at least 60% successful in which is did resolve at least 60% of the back pain I was experiencing over the last 2 to 5 years.
Although it was successful there are still some outstanding issues but in hindsight, the positives outweigh the negatives. I have been able to walk around home unaided most of the time and do house work for about 1-2 hours (slowly of course) and walking wise I can walk with my walking crutches for about 1-2 hours (depending on how I feel) but still use my wheelchair to get around the city and too and from the office.
I would like to point out that I was in fact walking around my work christmas party unaided, but walking as if I was a penguin............I think. I know quite a few colleagues were astounded. Thats what hard work of going to and doing physiotherapy, the gym and occasional visits to the pool.
Highlight for me was being able to go back to work, although in a limited capacity (part-time work) but never the less, it was a highlight to finally catch up and see the wonderful work colleagues and friends after being away a heck of a lot.
So basically the first half of the year was recovery from major back surgery and continual physio and hydrotherapy.
The second half of the year did take a bit of a sad start, when an old school friend who had similar yet the same kind of Spina Bifida pass away suddenly due to a massive infection that shut some of her organs down. It was even made worse when trying to track down other fellow ex-students that it was in-fact discovered that another student had passed away in February of the previous year (2011) suddenly and without anyone really knowing or confirming this.
Due to this I am working on doing a reunion as well as a memorial function and am putting the first part of that into place now ready for the new year.
The second half was brightened up a lot with a good friend, Sandra, coming down under for 5 weeks from Canada. Did the usual tourist stuff, visits in the city and around the harbour, went to Taronga Zoo (which has changed a heck of a lot since I last visited over 8 years ago or so). Also went to the Blue Mountains, parts of the Central Coast and up to the NSW North Coast to Coffs Harbour for a week, visiting places such as Dorrigo, Grafton, Uranga, Byron Bay (caught up with our very good friend Anne Marie aka Queensland Mummy and her friend for the day) as well as Coffs Harbour itself, partaking in coast out (basically like mardi gras but much more intimate I think).
That in itself was interesting when on the way heading back home, out damn car broke down just outside of Taree in which we had to stay overnight (as the car's waterpump broke causing damage to other parts and setting us back $605!!!) but all in all was excellent trip. I have since fallen in love with Coffs Harbour because of its location - you can't beat the ocean views as well as the small city/country feel it has as well.
I also met with the NSW Labor Transport Minister, Penny Sharpe, to help organise a disability transport forum, which is still in the planning stages and we are hoping to have a forum running and announced in about March/April/May next year.
I also have had a re-fitting for my new wheelchair, which means I can finally get rid of the damn colours wheelchair (which is what I have been loaning from Northcott Disability Services since November last year after my own colours wheelchair broke down). Fingers crossed this can all be fixed within 1-2 months of next year but I think I have just jinxed myself on this one
Then we come to the low part of which happened on Monday morning whilst heading into work with Brett - someone rear ended our car, causing my back to tense up and me screaming in back because of the sudden jolt. Wasn't happy because Brett had to call the Paramedics to come out in which spent the better part of Monday in Westmead Hospital (I despise that place) and went from being admitted at 4.30pm to being discharged over an hour later. That my friend is what you call speedy admission/discharge as well as showing you how bad the hospital/health system has gotten in NSW and Australia I believe.
Also after the disasterous Monday I had, I was advised by Ausdroid (www.ausdroid.net) that I had won a new Motorola Razr M thanks to my entry. Ausdroid's competition asked "you to tell us, in 25 words or less, what made you faster, smarter or stronger". My entry went a little bit like this "Not allowing my disABILITY stopping me from being who I am and showcasing what I can do instead of what I can’t." I have to say I was surprised and shocked I had won because I haven't really won anything in my life before hand!! I have been using the phone for a couple of days now and I am loving it, but I will go on more about Android and iOS in another post.........maybe!!
So now we come to Christmas and it's going to a busy time, spending Christmas with friends and family in various places whilst trying to have some down time for us both. So on that note, I think I have said everything I wanted to share. I hope your 2012 year has been fantastic, crazy and awesome as much as mine (although mine is a little bot boring now I have re-read it again, but oh well, you get that I suppose).
I would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year for 2013!! May the new year bring you joy, happiness and may all your dreams and wishes come true not only for the holidays, but the new year too.
Happy Holidays Everyone. Till next time be safe, drive carefully if your driving on the roads and enjoy the festive season with family and friends!!
Seasons Greetings
Alex
Saturday, November 19, 2011
NSW Health.....Needing its own health check
I know I have somewhat talked about this in the past, but its one of my issues which is close to my heart because I think the way in which NSW Health currently runs for not only everyone, but more so people with disabilties is disgraceful.
For example, as I have Spina Bifida, I attend the Spina Bifida Clinic at Westmead Hospital (the adults hospital) in which at the end of the day, it has become a "referral" clinic. Basically you see one Doctor who might know a little bit about your condition to which they say you need to be looked into and referred to say the chronic pain team or see the urology clinic or the neurosurgery clinic, etc. Now yes that is somewhat good because it does 'streamline' services, but it doesn't help the patient at the end of the day.
Why?
Simply because referring to these clinics can lead to long waiting times, to which currently the chronic pain team or clinic are currently not taking on any new patients at westmead unless its honestly an emergency, otherwise the waiting list stands at a minimum 2.5 years before your going to even get in the door. And that is only the start, or end when you think about it.
I don't know how or why things have gotten this bad. Yeah ok the previous Government did undercut or not invest in health, but given now funding has somewhat increased, has things gotten better - hell no!!
I mean, what happened to the good old days when I was a kid and went to the children's hospital at camperdown and then Westmead when it moved and I attended the Spina Bifida Clinic and you would see all the doctors you required right there on that clinic day (which is generally a Friday, or used to be) and you would only get a referral if you had to have tests or if a certain Doctor was not able to make the clinis that day.
Its like that was the good old days or more so, when you're a kid, they chuck all the resources at you, but once you become an adult and get 'referred' to the adult clinics respectfully, ots like thank you and well good luck.
Its a joke and both politicians, department and hospital heads need to make change happen. Yeah it will probably be a painful change but its a necessary one if you ask me. Its time that we look at what can be done to make things become better for the patient instead of the hospital and the budget at the end of the day, because there should NEVER EVER ABE A PRICE ON ANYONE'S HEALTH at the end of the day!!
I am sorry for the caps words above but I am frustrated and over it. No one wants to make change happen for the better and they seem to want to put a price on patients or you and I at the end of the day health wise.
Its just not on and not certainly fair!!
For example, as I have Spina Bifida, I attend the Spina Bifida Clinic at Westmead Hospital (the adults hospital) in which at the end of the day, it has become a "referral" clinic. Basically you see one Doctor who might know a little bit about your condition to which they say you need to be looked into and referred to say the chronic pain team or see the urology clinic or the neurosurgery clinic, etc. Now yes that is somewhat good because it does 'streamline' services, but it doesn't help the patient at the end of the day.
Why?
Simply because referring to these clinics can lead to long waiting times, to which currently the chronic pain team or clinic are currently not taking on any new patients at westmead unless its honestly an emergency, otherwise the waiting list stands at a minimum 2.5 years before your going to even get in the door. And that is only the start, or end when you think about it.
I don't know how or why things have gotten this bad. Yeah ok the previous Government did undercut or not invest in health, but given now funding has somewhat increased, has things gotten better - hell no!!
I mean, what happened to the good old days when I was a kid and went to the children's hospital at camperdown and then Westmead when it moved and I attended the Spina Bifida Clinic and you would see all the doctors you required right there on that clinic day (which is generally a Friday, or used to be) and you would only get a referral if you had to have tests or if a certain Doctor was not able to make the clinis that day.
Its like that was the good old days or more so, when you're a kid, they chuck all the resources at you, but once you become an adult and get 'referred' to the adult clinics respectfully, ots like thank you and well good luck.
Its a joke and both politicians, department and hospital heads need to make change happen. Yeah it will probably be a painful change but its a necessary one if you ask me. Its time that we look at what can be done to make things become better for the patient instead of the hospital and the budget at the end of the day, because there should NEVER EVER ABE A PRICE ON ANYONE'S HEALTH at the end of the day!!
I am sorry for the caps words above but I am frustrated and over it. No one wants to make change happen for the better and they seem to want to put a price on patients or you and I at the end of the day health wise.
Its just not on and not certainly fair!!
Monday, October 3, 2011
10 years on from high school graduation
Today I was going through some old items of mine to discover my high school graduation certificate from Balmain High School (now known as Sydney Secondary College Balmain Campus - mouth full if you ask me!) and I was surprised to learn that it has been just over 10 years since I graduated year 12 and it got me thinking, what has changed in those ten years.
I know one thing that has definitely changed for me is my acceptance of who I truly am in life and come out to both my parents, friends, past and present co-workers and that certainly has been a weight off my shoulder. I would also like to point out that it does get better and it does become easier. Coming out as a gay man was the best thing for myself, my health and my sanity!
In high school I was confused and was not sure of who I was exactly and what I truly wanted out of life. I was teased for being gay before I knew or at least whilst I was trying discover who I am exactly. But with that said children or at least teenagers can be harsh and bullies in which I would like to point out an old saying here -
'sticks and stones my break my bones, but words will never hurt me'
Let me tell you that saying is still very true to this day and will always be the case because people who don't understand or accept are just plain blind sighted and ignorant! If I listened to most of the bullies and people in general I would probably not be here writing this post!
Getting back on track though, the one thing I was darn sure of was never going to university. I know weird but in some ways I knew deep down I could not cope with both the workload and studies required. Having a slight learning difficulty would also just make things worse, however now I am starting to think about going to university and maybe completing a degree or diploma (still deciding on what I wish to study first) but I also haven't ruled out going to TAFE either.
One thing that has changed is my health, which has seen probably better days, weeks, months, hell even years. I now use a wheelchair to get around when in the community as such and around home I can either use my walking sticks or can try to walk around like a penguin (yeah yeah laugh all you want at that - smart ass! lol). Prior to that in 2007 I used to walk around with a walking stick (yeah ok probably looked like an old man, have to keep you young whipper snappers in line you know hehe) and prior to that in 2002 I was able to walk fine.
I hear you say why my health is been well, so messed up? Well it's a little bit complex but in short I was born with Spina Bifida and due to its complexities I have been having ongoing health issues (and multiple admissions to Westmead Hospital - shuddering at even the thought let alone typing to words).
Another thing that has changed for me is that I am in a very loving, happy relationship with my partner Brett or Brettles as I affectionately call him. I am engaged and (trying) to plan a commitment ceremony (stupid not being able to get married - grunt) for next year (2012 around early November).
I am trying to pay off debts from a one fucked up ex (and they certainly know who they are, wanker!) who made sure I was screwed over royally financially - alas I shouldn't hold that much of a grudge, but when we are talking about $30k above its not a pretty picture!
I have a half sister (who really is like a sister to me), Kerri who when having a hard time in hospital always manages to make me laugh and put a smile back on my face!
I have a wonderful mother, father and little brother who have helped both myself and Brett during hard times both financially and physically and are always there when we need them or they need us (love you mum, dad and shan)
I have fantastic friends like Emma, Kristi, Allanah, Steve and the kids, Rebecca, Scott, Sandra, Annie, Maya, Kylie, Bridget, Eddy and Nat, Jarrod, Adam and Gavin, Vito and Boyd, Johnny, Dean, Leah in all honest there is way to many to mention on here but I will say that if I didn't mention your name I am sorry but you know who you are and you know how much you guys mean to me! It's like a huge family of support really with my friends and for that I am truly grateful.
So I guess really at the end of the day that within that 10 year period so much has really changed both for the good, the bad and well the in between. Would I change it for anything in the world? Hell no!
it's those ten years which have shaped me who I am today and for that I grateful!
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