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Jul 25, 2024

Sharing the support

News Occupational Therapy Speech Therapy

“Hugh’s brain is super-fast but his body can take a moment to catch up”, explains Mum, Michelle.

“It’s all motor planning – Hugh just needs people around him who see his abilities and encourage them and that’s what we’ve been fortunate to have with all our therapists”, she says.

Working with their therapy team, Michelle found an iPad app that really works for Hugh.

“He struggled at first with writing but now we use the app Its much quicker for him to use the app word banks. We have core word banks and then specific groups for school etc.

When our Speech and OT both use the app along with the school, we are all on the same page. We are consistent with how we support Hugh at home, school and in therapy, and that’s when we see success.

Michelle, Hugh’s mum.

Making a difference with community fundraising

“It fitted with our business values to do this. We already knew the app made a difference for Hugh so we were keen to share it with others.

“Hopefully that has the ripple effect of helping kids access the curriculum, have more success in writing and get their message across,” says Michelle.

The family are keen to keep supporting Northcott. For a few years, they have undertaken an annual fundraising trek and this year walked 3.7km from Maroochy Surf Club to Mooloolaba Surf Club to raise funds for Northcott.

Walking is particularly challenging for Hugh due to his difficulties with motor planning and muscle tone, and his walking speed is comparable to that of a child under 3.

This year, Hugh raised money to buy Switch Toys for Northcott Toowoomba. These toys were instrumental in his early therapy 7.5 years ago, aiding in his speech and motor development, while also boosting his confidence and social skills.

Two boys at beach.

Hugh at the start of his fundraising walk for Northcott.

Become a community fundraiser

Accessibility and Inclusivity

We respect and honour Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the stories, traditions and living cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples on this land and commit to building a brighter future together.

Read more about our commitment to reconciliation

Montrose is now part of Northcott!

Welcome to our new website.

If you have any questions, please speak to your Service Manager, Service Coordinator or call us on 1800 818 286.

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