Aaron D Altera
About Aaron
Aaron was a 20-year-old plumbing apprentice when he contracted encephalitis, resulting in an Acquired Brain Injury (ABI). This life-altering event led to a remarkable surgery where three-quarters of his skull was temporarily removed and later restored.
Although he survived the surgery, he suffered a stroke that affected his sight, leaving him with no peripheral vision. He has also experienced seizures and short-term memory loss, but has developed strategies to cope effectively.
Before his illness, Aaron enjoyed sports, particularly water skiing. Despite challenges and periods of low self-esteem and depression, he persevered through rehabilitation. Key to his recovery was the unwavering support of his father, who took two years off work to provide full-time care. This family support, combined with rehabilitation sessions, gym training, and comprehensive case management, helped Aaron regain his independence.
As Aaron became more self-sufficient, he pursued a barista course at TAFE. Fuelled by his love of coffee, he worked part-time at a local milk bar and also at UCAN, a social enterprise café run by Yooralla.
Continuing his love of sports, Aaron played vison-impaired soccer for five years and currently enjoys ten-pin bowling, water-skiing and camping. He is a proud father to a school-aged daughter.
Aaron is passionate about advocating for people with disability through his work with Speakers Bank. He aims to challenge stigma about disability and ABI and to inspire others to live life fully.
Areas of experience
- Acquired Brain Injury (ABI)
- Epilepsy
- Vision impairment
- Independent living
- Employment access and barriers
- Family and community support
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