Life hadn’t been easy for Geoff. At 65, a combination of both physical and mental health diagnoses had overshadowed his reality, a far cry from the confident, humour filled man he is today. Before beginning his care journey with Myxa Care, Geoff was living in an unsuitable environment with support workers who weren’t the right fit for him, he stopped caring about having his basic needs meet, often finding solace confined within the walls of his home.
Geoff recognised that he needed to find a new disability provider. After meeting with Geoff and discussing his needs and goals, Myxa agreed that Geoff needed a more supportive environment. They placed him in a light-filled, spacious home with dedicated support team. The support team carefully chosen for their compatibility, became an extension of Geoff’s social circle. He enjoys keeping them up to date with where his beloved Geelong football team is performing on the AFL ladder or what is his latest addition to his impressive DVD collection.
My support team is here for me,” Geoff beams, getting a little emotional. “Myxa Care did a great job in putting them together”. With his support team providing encouragement and support Geoff has taken charge of his health and well-being
A new routine for Geoff has emerged, one focused on movement and a connection to nature. Most days, Geoff embarks on a walk around his local lake, he is so dedicated he will even go when the weather isn’t ideal. This change in activity level has been remarkable, leading to a significant weight loss over the past year and a reduction in the number of medical appointments Geoff has needed to attend to maintain his health.
With a twinkle in his eye, Geoff shares, “I want to lose even more weight, though. And eat more vegetables – not my favourite, but I’m working on it!”.
Geoff’s journey extends beyond himself.
His daily walks have fostered new friendships, with fellow walkers, local dogs and even the wildlife. He has developed a reputation of being popular with people’s pets that are also walking the lake, as he always makes sure he carries dog treats to share. One pooch in particular Louie, a German Shepard, Geoff has befriended so much he has had a mug printed with his picture on it. The local canines aren’t the only ones who benefit from Geoff’s generosity, he also likes to feed seeds to the ducks, of which three in particular he’s affectionately named Huey, Duey and Louie, who always rush to greet him to get their daily treat.
Geoff’s story is a real life example of Myxa Care’s approach, based on the values of reliable, respectful and responsive care. 24/7 support, tailored to his individual needs, has allowed Geoff to reclaim his health, reconnect with life, and forge meaningful connections with his newfound friends, human, furred and feathered.