Julie lives a life without limits

Hand and upper limb research

Looking forward to a future without limits, Julie has returned to her love of hiking and is enjoying her time riding Lewis, her Arabian horse. She says, 'Lewis was a present to myself once I was deemed fit enough to ride again.

Julie underwent three major surgeries, followed by years of rehabilitation and physiotherapy, with the support and research of the Hand and Upper Limb Unit at Flinders University.

The impact on Julie’s daily life was extensive. She wondered how much use of her arm she would regain and whether she would ever be able to pursue her passion of horse riding again.

‘Basic tasks I had taken for granted were difficult, painful or impossible,’ say Julie.

‘Reaching above shoulder height for items from the cupboard or supermarket shelf was at first impossible. Not being able to work or drive, particularly in a rural situation, was a challenge. In the early stages, the inability to wash or brush my hair or dress myself all added to the frustration and the loss of independence.’

Julie with her horse Lewis

Four years later, following her successful surgeries, Julie now experiences a daily life that is a far cry from the pain and debilitation that followed her accident.

‘I find myself smiling and utter a quiet “thank you” every time I lift the bridle over my horse’s ears, reach for the top shelf in the supermarket, hug a grandchild, or undertake some of the tasks in life we take so much for granted,’ says Julie, who has recently been able to return to part-time administration work.

‘Without the amazing expertise and modern technology at Flinders University, I would not be able to do what I do today,’ says Julie.

Advancements in hand and upper limb treatment and care is dependent on equipping the next generation of medical practitioners and researchers with new and innovative knowledge and technology, all of which requires funding.

Donate today to help others live a life without limits through the support of hand and upper limb research and education at Flinders University. 100% of your tax-deductible donation will grow opportunities for orthopaedic students and researchers to advance their life-changing skills and knowledge.

Donate now