Client Stories: Bill

Since our arrival at The Henry on October 15, 2021, we have felt welcomed and supported by The Butler Care Manager, Sandra Villamil, and Malsha, who work closely in conjunction with The Henry staff.

Before our move, I endured a four-month hospitalisation in Sydney due to acute pancreatitis, which included a three-week rehabilitation program to begin my physical recovery. I had lost about 15kg in body weight and experienced a significant reduction in strength and muscle tone. By the time of our arrival at The Henry, I had been out of the hospital for just one week, was still relatively weak, and required physical support.

My wife, Kate, has reduced mobility caused by osteoporosis, a side effect of anti-rejection drugs following her kidney transplant in 2007. During my illness, I was unable to care for Kate, so our daughter came to Sydney to care for her mother and support me while I was in the hospital. This period also involved preparing our Sydney home for sale, organising inspections and a virtual auction, and making arrangements for our new home at The Henry.

After our arrival and a two-week quarantine period, Sandra met with us and conducted an assessment of our service needs. The immediate needs identified were:

• Physiotherapy for both Kate and me to improve strength and mobility.

• Provision of nursing services for me to administer a weekly Arenis injection.

• House cleaning support.

• Podiatry for Kate.

• Guidance and coordination for accessing Government support under My Aged Care.

These services were promptly arranged, and the following updates are provided:

1. Physiotherapy
   Following an information session and initial assessment, an eight-week program of one-hour weekly sessions was arranged with Adam for both Kate and me. Adam has been attentive to our needs and continuously adapts the program in response to our improving physical capabilities.

2. Nursing Services
   Weekly on-site visits by nurse Emelia were conducted for six weeks until the Arenis injection was no longer required. Emelia also assisted Kate by checking a dressing and bruising after a minor incident in the house. Her prompt attention meant no further visits were necessary.

3. House Cleaning Support
   A weekly two-hour cleaning routine was implemented, and we are completely satisfied with the results. Our cleaner, Smriti, is polite, punctual, and thorough in her work. She always asks if there are any special requests beyond the routine tasks and is both trustworthy and unobtrusive.

4. Podiatry for Kate
   Bonnie provides effective podiatry services with a pleasant manner. Kate is very satisfied with this service.

5. Advice and Coordination for Government Support
   Sandra arranged an interview with a My Aged Care assessor, who conducted a thorough and punctual assessment. Kate was satisfied with the outcome of the assessment.

In addition to these formal services, both Sandra and Malsha have been available at The Clubhouse at The Henry to discuss our needs and provide advice. They actively support recreational activities at the Clubhouse, and their friendly manner makes every interaction a pleasure. Meeting with them is something we both genuinely look forward to.

In summary, we have received outstanding service from the Vitality Care team and are extremely grateful for their support.

Sincerely,
Bill