Thread by @jjyerbury

After a disappointing attempt at a cruise earlier in the year we turned to @Qantas to help us get away with the family to Perth. #MND #ALS @MNDAust

A thread.

@Qantas While a short flight SYD-PER is a relatively simple sojourn that people take for granted, for someone who is totally paralysed & relies on ventilation for life support, it is a BIG deal. I have been asked how we managed to pull it together. Here is how …

@Qantas Firstly, why Perth? The 30th International MND symposium was happening in Perth, so I was extra motivated, it was also a great opportunity to get away with the family. Planning started more than 6 months in advance…

@Qantas This was going to take a team & accessible transport & accomm & that costs $. While holidays are not paid for by the NDIS, access to a holiday is. Cost of support workers, their travel, plus any costs that I would not incur if I was able bodied, can all be covered by the NDIS.

@Qantas Next step was to assemble the team. On the ground I would need consultation & planning from OT, physio & our support co-ordinator. We would take 2 support workers and a nurse and family. Also the @Qantas Aviation Health Programs would play a huge role.

@Qantas Next step was to assemble the team. On the ground I would need consultation & planning from OT, physio & our support co-ordinator. We would take 2 support workers and a nurse and family. Also the @Qantas Aviation Health Programs would play a huge role.

@Qantas Medical clearance from my neurologist was required. Accessible van, accommodation booked and my equipment duplicated at the destination (shower chair, hoist, bed).

@Qantas The @Qantas Aviation health team were amazing. Several conference calls, two airport practice runs and we were ready.

@Qantas On the day of the flight we had mixed emotions given our rejection at the port earlier in the year. But all the planning paid off and we took off without a hitch. HUGE thanks to all the @Qantas staff that made it happen.

@Qantas The only appropriate seats were in Business class. Even these were tricky. Qantas has access to the eagle hoist in all capital cities. These are specially made to hoist you in to an aircraft seat. I also used my wheelchair cushion on top of the seat for comfort.

@Qantas A harness and a scarf tied around my head kept me in place. Then I could relax and enjoy the in flight entertainment.

@Qantas We holidayed in Bunbury with the family. It was great just to hang out every day with the family. It was valuable moments spent with loved ones. A highlight was a float in the bay, in a custom built wheelchair for water. Thanks Bunbury city.

@Qantas The symposium #ALSSymp #MNDSymp was great. Our work was well received and we learned a lot. It was well worth the effort.

@Qantas I felt like that I was not just alive, but that I was living.