Gordo’s Dream

Gordo had a dream.

At Chris’s request we have kept his condition pretty quiet. But it’s time to ask for help so we can fulfil one of his lifelong dreams. Chris has Lewy Body Dementia (the worst kind! -a rapid degenerative disease causing hallucinations etc and affecting multiple body systems, including Parkinson’s disease).

You probably remember he always cared about health & fitness and he started the outdoor education program and weightlifting as a sport whilst teaching science for 24 at Avondale high school. The happiest parts of his day are still a little physical training. He will never pump iron like he used to, but he still works a small set of dumb bells with help and enjoys slow walks and physio exercises.

It’s our goal to fulfil his dream of building a small home gym set/up with steam bath and plunge pool (probably just a spa), and a gym machine. It’s something from his glory days of weekly steaming with friends and addiction to the weights, that will still bring him so much joy. Physical & mental therapy. -Particularly if his buddies can find time to come and have a steam & dip with him on occasion. Get boys nights started again……once COVID allows.

Despite the distress of early onset, we are fortunate to receive ndis to allow Chris to stay at home. But with the whole budget being directed to personal care and essential support items, there isn’t a budget for ‘quality of life’ items.

Chris’s pride hasn’t allowed us to share publically his condition until now or how hard it’s been for us all. But in order to give him the best quality of life in the short time he has, we have asked him for permission to ask you for help. We can’t do this in our own or we would have already done it. A modest estimate for the expense of a home gym tailored to him, steam bath and spa is 30k. We just don’t quite have that much much ourselves. We know many in the community have fond memories of Gordo and do care about him (and us). We would love if you would be willing/able to help us make this long time wish happen.

We will need help raising the money to purchase the steam room and spa & a working bee to put it together. Anything you can offer is appreciated.

Thank you

Chimene & Narelle