For Tom, returning home was more than a milestone. It represented the chance to rebuild his independence, reconnect with family life and continue working towards the goals that matter most to him.
A former RAF veteran, engineer, businessman and teacher, Tom's life changed dramatically nearly three years ago when he suffered a respiratory and cardiac arrest alongside a stroke.
The impact was significant. Tom required a tracheostomy and enteral feeding tube and spent two and a half years in an Active Care Group inpatient service as he began his recovery journey.
When the time finally came to leave inpatient rehabilitation and return home, Active Assistance was there to support the transition.
Today, Tom receives 24-hour, one-to-one support from a dedicated team of Support Workers, with clinically skilled staff helping to manage his complex medical needs while enabling him to continue progressing towards greater independence.
Continuing Rehabilitation at Home
Returning home marked the beginning of a new phase in Tom's rehabilitation.
Like many people recovering from a life-changing illness, Tom's focus is not simply on managing his health needs but on regaining as much independence as possible.
His personal goals include:
- Walking upstairs independently
- Taking a shower without assistance
- Returning to driving
- Increasing his freedom and mobility
With support from his care team, Tom continues to make steady progress towards these ambitions. His Support Workers have witnessed a noticeable increase in both his physical abilities and confidence since returning home, helping him take important steps towards rebuilding the life he wants to live.
Milestones That Matter
One of Tom's most memorable achievements was returning home in time to celebrate his wife's birthday. After years away from home and family life, being able to share this special occasion together was a significant and emotional moment for both Tom and his loved ones.
Since returning home, Tom has also begun reconnecting with his local community. As someone with a longstanding interest in model railways, he was recently able to attend an event at his local model railway club, where he had previously helped with setting up exhibitions.
For Tom, these experiences represent important milestones in his rehabilitation journey and a return to the activities and interests that have always been important to him.
Supporting the Whole Family
The impact of home care extends beyond the individual receiving support. Tom's wife, Lyn, has seen first-hand the positive difference that having a consistent and dedicated care team has made.
"One of our Support Workers has grown in confidence while with Tom, and we are so pleased that he has developed into a member of the team we can't do without."
By providing around-the-clock support, Active Assistance has helped give Tom and his family the reassurance that his complex needs are being safely managed while allowing him to focus on his ongoing recovery and rehabilitation. While Tom's journey continues, his progress demonstrates what can be achieved with specialist support, determination and clear goals.
