I use a mobility scooter for all of my outings so it is vitally important that I have access to information about different places. I can’t tell you the amount of times I get caught where I can’t access a grocery aisle, a corner store, a clothing store or a chemist. Things like the size of the aisles, the doorways can all mean I can’t access them. Not to mention not being able to reach things on shelves.

My partner is also my carer and so when I heard about Cérge we had a chat and decided to see what all the fuss was about. I don’t like to make a bother for people, I just want to be able to access the places I need and want to enjoy my life.

Seeing Mudgereeba Aquatic Centre on the Cérge website was great, so close to me and a place I wanted to visit for hydrotherapy. My partner and I sat and looked through the Visual Story and Access Guide to make sure I was,

1. Find suitable parking

2. Able to get inside from the carpark

3. Get in the doorway

4. Have somewhere I can get changed

5. Get into the pool

6. Water at a temp that is ok for my hydrotherapy

7. Enjoy myself with minimal anxiety

After looking through the tools I felt happy and equipped with the information to be able to attend. Abby was the staff member who greeted me when I arrived and she was so welcoming and helpful. She was a breath of fresh air and had the whole situation under control and we felt very at ease.

I use pool noodles and enjoyed such a great swim. You need to take your own equipment to the pool which is pretty standard. We felt very accomplished and I would love to return to this pool!

It’s so good for my body to move but it’s even better for the mindset!

I really enjoyed myself, thank you everyone :)