A journey of strength and support

Craig has always loved his sport and family. In his early 40s, life was full, working as an electrician, playing cricket with his mates, cheering for his footy team and spending time with his baby daughter.

Living with Type 1 diabetes never slowed him down. But at 42, everything changed. A heart attack, followed by life-saving quadruple bypass surgery, left Craig with a permanent spinal injury that affected his movement and balance.

“This moment changed everything,” Craig said. “The uncertainty of walking again was terrifying, and the idea of my daughter growing up without her dad to run around with, that really killed me.”

Despite the dedication of hospital staff, Craig the hospital rushed his discharge, leaving his needs overlooked.

“The hospitals do their best, but it feels like they’re rushing you out rather than giving proper care," he said.

“I ended up with pressure sores on my feet during my hospital stay because I couldn’t move, and the nurses didn’t reposition me. What’s worse, they didn’t even notice the sores at all.”

For people with diabetes and nerve damage, pressure sores can lead to series complications, such as chronic infection, reduced mobility, and pain.

Craig spent 8 months in hospital before being discharged and referred to Each for ongoing mobility support.

Finding strength with Each

From day one, Craig knew he was in the right hands. Each’s podiatry team diagnosed his pressure sores early, which resulted in his toe being saved from amputation when an ulcer later appeared on his foot.

“I had to go back to the hospital with a diabetic ulcer on my foot," said Craig.

"If it wasn’t for Each podiatry, they would have removed my toe because that’s the easiest thing to do, but their diagnosis spared it.”

Today, at the age of 50, Craig still has his zest for life. He walks with mobility crutches, regularly sees the Each Podiatry team, and – thanks to their support – has stayed out of hospital and regained his independence.

“Each podiatry is exceptional. They listen and offer diverse solutions from their extensive expertise. I can’t praise them enough. They’ve prevented me from returning to hospital due to complications.”

“Each helped me to drive again, something I thought wouldn’t be possible. This gives me the freedom to visit mates at the cricket club, go and attend footy games and move around town.”

Each’s dietetics, occupational therapy, and exercise physiology teams also play a key role in managing his diabetes and mobility, while his NDIS planner is managed by the Each support coordination service.

“The healthcare system can be overwhelming, but Each is experienced in it," said Craig. "That’s why I always check with them first what services they have before navigating the broader healthcare system.”

At Each, care isn’t just about treatment – it’s about empowering people to live their lives fully.

Craig’s story is proof that the right support can change everything.