For many people living in regional areas, accessing the right healthcare and support services can be a significant challenge.
This was the reality for Aaron Knight, who was diagnosed with MS in 2007. Facing limited medical resources and growing frustration at the lack of specialist care in his hometown of Albury in New South Wales, Aaron recently became the first to stay at the newly developed, supported disability apartments, Lidcombe Home.
His experience was more than just a break — it was life-changing.
“There are so many opportunities available to you when you’re staying in a bigger city,” Aaron said after his stay. “I live in a regional area where there are no neurologists and not many health supports.”
“When I was first diagnosed, I was a naive young man and I endured some really difficult experiences — losing my career as an engineer, my relationships, friendships, my accommodation, my mind (both memory and cognition), and finally my independence.
“I suffered through anxiety, depression, bladder control, bowel difficulties, fatigue, the ability to walk, swallow, and converse. Also, the decreased ability of my right arm, right leg.”
For Aaron, having easy access to neuro-specialised physiotherapy and tailored gym equipment during his stay at Lidcombe Home was a game-changer — with a range of supports available just next door at the Lidcombe Wellbeing Centre.
“I was able to see Physiotherapist Dr. Phu Hoang, and I knew right away he was drawing on a huge pool of experience,” Aaron said.
“I had three sessions in the gym while I was there, which was great. He was very concise and confident in his advice, and I trusted that what he recommended would work for me,” Aaron says.
“Keeping your body fit improves your mental health — I felt more invigorated after every session. I have a physio at home, but the gym equipment is much more limited than at Lidcombe. It’s like comparing a mansion to a tent.”
Beyond healthcare, Lidcombe Home offered Aaron a sense of independence, security and community he hadn’t experienced before.
“Each apartment is fully independent, with an easily accessible kitchen where I could prepare my own meals. I’m in a wheelchair, and the accessible features—like adjustable benches—made a big difference. I didn’t cook this time, but just knowing I could, gave me a feeling of new possibilities and a more positive outlook on independent living.”
One of the most reassuring aspects of Lidcombe Home was the support available around the clock. “There are staff on call 24/7, which is really comforting. I also had an MS support worker stay with me to help with my daily tasks, providing one-on-one assistance when I needed it.”
Aaron's respite experience was so impactful that he is now planning to become a permanent resident, having applied to the NDIS for Supported Disability Accommodation.
“I came to Lidcombe to get easier access to the services I need, but also for a break. The medical services, the limitless possibilities, and the social interaction are fantastic. Now, I want to stay permanently.
“Some of the most valuable support I was given initially was a peer support contact, which is the chance to connect with someone else living with MS. But now I'm motivated to help and listen to others newly diagnosed. I'm not much of a people person — I'm an introvert — but I believe that helping others as I was helped is a very rewarding path.
“Where I live now, it’s very isolating. At Lidcombe, I know I’ll have the chance to meet, and help, others in the same situation as me. Seeing other people with MS doing awesome things would be so motivating.
“I look forward to all the free information events that MS Plus holds at Lidcombe Home. I’m also eager to listen and share my own lived experiences with fellow individuals as a peer support volunteer.”
Lidcombe Home offers both respite and permanent accommodation for people living with neurological conditions, including MS, Parkinson’s, Epilepsy and Stroke, providing access to essential services, modern facilities, and a welcoming community. And, as this facility has just opened, it has no waiting lists.
To learn more about how Lidcombe Home can support you, visit msplus.org.au/LidcombeHome, phone 1800 042 138 or email [email protected]
Key Facts:
NFP facility offers life-changing care
Contact details:
Alison Dean
0416160773