At the age of 14 years my main ambition in life was to become an outstanding sportsman — to represent Australia at rugby league or as a member of the track and field team at the Olympics. My plans were shattered when in December 1945 I contracted polio. The months and years that followed were filled with remorse and self pity and I was subjected to comments like ‘Are you the poor little crippled boy from down the road?’ or people who would cross to the other side of the street if they saw me coming.
In 1991 my attention was drawn to a notice for a meeting inviting polio survivors to discuss the possibility of forming a Brisbane support group under the umbrella of the Paraplegic and Quadraplegic Association (now the Spinal Injuries Association).
Following the formation of the Post-Polio Support Group I worked hard to raise awareness of its existence, using the media and health professionals to promote the support network.
The group provides peer support through regular newsletters and meetings, and has been the catalyst for the formation of other support groups throughout Queensland.
I joined the support group 20 years ago and have been the convenor for the past 10 years. I find it most rewarding to be able to provide some comfort to those who have also been affected by polio.
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