Jimmy’s journey: A story of spirit and determination
Jimmy is a proud and fiercely independent Aboriginal man from Booleroo Centre in South Australia’s Flinders Ranges. He’s also a client of our Closing the Gap — Integrated Team Care program, which supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living with chronic health conditions through personalised care coordination, the development of self-management skills, and tailored practical assistance.
Initially referred to the program for help managing his cardiac health, Jimmy was seeking support to manage the cost and logistics of transport to and from GP and specialist appointments.
When life changes
In July 2024, Jimmy’s health took a turn when he experienced a stroke. The episode significantly impacted his mobility, left him non-verbal, and created swallowing difficulties that required him to begin using a feeding tube.
What followed was a challenging and emotional time for Jimmy and his family as they navigated weeks of hospitalisation, transfers between regional hospitals, and lengthy trips to specialists across the state, including in Adelaide. Jimmy travelled great distances, and so did his family: depending on where Jimmy was, they were undertaking round-trips of anywhere between 500-900km.
Stepping up support
To help Jimmy and his loved ones through this difficult time, supports from Closing the Gap ITC intensified. Brian, Closing the Gap ITC Outreach Worker was a constant source of support for Jimmy.
Working closely with other professionals in Jimmy’s support network, such as his Occupational Therapist, Speech Therapist, and Community Nurse, Brian advocated for Jimmy’s needs. He arranged transport, facilitated a referral for My Aged Care, and helped coordinate in-home services for Jimmy’s eventual return home. Plus, when family couldn’t make the trip up to Wallaroo, Brian would visit Jimmy in hospital.
Recognising the importance of communication and connection for Jimmy’s wellbeing, Brian supported the purchase of an iPad, allowing Jimmy to interact with loved ones and service providers. Brian also helped Jimmy maintain a sense of dignity and normalcy by facilitating simple but meaningful activities, like getting a haircut during his stay at Wallaroo Hospital.
A resilient recovery
Throughout his recovery, Jimmy has shown great resilience and determination.
Jimmy progressed from being wheelchair-bound, to using a four-wheeled walker, to getting around with only a walking stick. Now, he can sometimes walk without the stick! He’s also in the process of getting his driver’s licence back, and very much looking forward to the greater independence this will create.
Though still non-verbal, Jimmy has made noticeable improvements in communication and swallowing. While he still uses his feeding tube, he is self-administering food.
Today, Jimmy is enjoying living in his own home, surrounded by what he loves most: his partner, Sheba (his dog), and his garden. Of course, independence is incredibly important to Jimmy, and home modifications funded by My Aged Care have helped him live more autonomously.
Jimmy’s ongoing care, provided by nurses, physiotherapists, and speech pathologists, is coordinated by the Closing the Gap ITC team. In addition, regular check-ins with Jimmy’s network of health professionals ensure that both he and his partner feel supported and well-informed.
As Jimmy’s partner says, “Brian has been exceptional with his help and advice. His support to Jim and me has been immense.”
Jimmy’s story illustrates not only his strength and determination, but also the transformative power of culturally safe and coordinated support. With ongoing assistance and his own steadfast spirit, there’s every reason to believe his recovery will continue. And one thing is for certain: Brian will be there every step of the way.
Looking for support?
If you or someone you know could benefit from the Closing the Gap ITC program, ask your GP or Aboriginal Health Worker to complete an Aboriginal Health Check and/or a GP Management Plan and make a referral to Sonder’s Closing the Gap ITC program.
Referral forms can be downloaded from sonder.net.au/closing-the-gap.
If you don’t have a regular GP, we can help. Call (08) 8209 0700 or email info@sonder.net.au to chat with a friendly member of our team.
This service is supported by funding from Adelaide PHN and Country SA PHN through the Australian Government’s Primary Health Network Program.