Former client helps clients of the future at Hunter Brain Injury Service

The exceptional efforts of well known Novocastrian photographer, Edward (Eddie) Cross together with Leapfrog Ability has contributed to the funding of two new accessible bathrooms for Hunter Brain Injury Service (HBIS).

The bathrooms at the HBIS Transitional Living Unit will be used by clients undergoing rehabilitation following an acquired brain injury.
“The new facilities will improve the experience of clients undergoing rehabilitation in our unit by providing more accessible and safer bathrooms,” Manager of Hunter Brain Injury Service, Kathryn Vaughan said.

Edward Cross raised the funds for the new bathrooms through the Newcastle based charity organisation, Leapfrog, whose aim is to provide a better quality of life for those with a disability.

To raise the funds for Leapfrog, Edward completed a 14 hour triathlon. Leapfrog then donated $15,000 of Edward’s fundraising efforts to HBIS for new bathrooms. Hunter New England Health then contributed a further $17,000 to complete the project.

“I think the exceptional thing about Eddie Cross is his willingness to help others who’ve been in his situation. In 2006, Eddie started visiting HBIS after acquiring a brain injury from a hit on the football field.

“HBIS assisted Eddie in his recovery and he now feels a duty to help others who use the service. He’s a remarkable individual who has helped provide HBIS with much needed and improved facilities for our clients,” Ms Vaughan said.

To celebrate the renovations to the Darby Street service, the team at Hunter Brain Injury Service will be hosting a Bathroom Opening on Friday 20 August, commencing at 9:30am. The opening will also include a morning tea to celebrate Brain Injury Awareness Week.

Media opportunities are available with the Hunter Brain Injury Service team and Edward Cross by calling Abbey Wright on (02) 4921 4477 or 0400 051 702.

Contact: Abbey Wright

Phone: (02) 4921 4477