Disability community support brings relief for Tongan Canterbury couple
The lives of a Tongan couple in the Canterbury region have been transformed after receiving support from Vaka Tautua’s services for Pacific people. Tony Wolfgramm has a newfound independence and his wife, Anaseini, is finding her role as primary caregiver has greatly eased.
Anaseini Wolfgramm with one of her woven ta’ovala.
Esala Vakamacawai, Coordinator for Vaka Tautua’s Disability Information Advisory Services based in Christchurch, acted as a Community Connector to help the couple access the right support for their needs.
On Esala’s first visit to the Wolfgramm home, he observed that Tony struggled to get in and out of bed. Esala contacted Tony’s healthcare provider to arrange a home visit and assess his needs. They agreed that an electric hospital-style bed would improve Tony’s mobility and give Anaseini better access for carer support.
Tony Wolfgramm in his new electric adjustable bed at home.
Since receiving his new bed with its adjustable settings, Tony has greater independence and is more comfortable when eating and sleeping. The accessible bed makes it easier for Anaseini to care for her husband, giving her more time to engage in her traditional Tongan weaving craft, creating beautiful ta’ovala (fine dress mats).
This simple change has had a big impact on the couple, improving both their physical and mental wellbeing. Tony’s new bed is high enough for him to look outside at the trees, see people walking along the road, and enjoy fresh air and sunshine.
Esala says, “Working as a Disability Information Advisory Services Coordinator and a Community Connector gives me a chance to look at things differently. It helps me build partnership and trust as we try and connect with Pacific people who need our support.”
Vaka Tautua’s Community Connector Service helps link Pacific people to appropriate support from government agencies and service providers. Our Disability Information Advisory Services offer information and advice to help disabled people, their families, and caregivers to lead independent and healthy lives.
Learn more about Vaka Tautua’s services in the Canterbury region: Vaka Tautua Canterbury