August 2025 changed my humble life with my wife. We both work full-time, our weekends spent relaxing, I enjoy watching rugby.  I was 61 and enjoyed riding my motorbike, a pastime I have enjoyed for many years to relax from the daily grind. Unfortunately, one day I was struck by a car, sustained multiple fractures, internal organ damage and a spinal cord injury (C4). I was transferred to Addenbrooke's Hospital, my road to recovery seemed long and lonely. Unable to use my legs and both my arms in casts made me feel useless. These life-changing injuries devastated my family, and the long-term implications were uncertain. Could I return to work? Will my employer use my age and now my disability against me?

Being on a busy ward with 11 other patients - all in need of specialist nursing care - impacted my mental health. A psychologist told me about Vihing, an Assistive Technologist from Aspire, who could help me access my phone and iPad to contact family and friends.

That same day, Vihing appeared. Meeting her was a breath of fresh air. She wasn't here to prod or poke me, causing pain. We chatted and learned about each other. She spoke about things that would help me use my phone and iPad independently. The following week, Vihing mounted my phone onto a gooseneck and clamped it onto my over-the-bed table. She tidied up my apps, deleted unwanted apps, and created folders so all my apps were accessed via the home screen. Suddenly, I could use my phone without dropping it and with some effort, the touchscreen. We tried ‘Voice Access’, but I didn't like talking to my phone. Using my fingers was good exercise too!

The following week Vihing returned. Knowing I liked rugby, she set my iPad up, mounted it beside my phone, and downloaded Sky Go. Just like that, I was able to watch all my favourite sports and TV.

This last week has been my best so far in hospital. I have some independence back. I was no longer climbing the walls. Being able to switch off and enter my own world in sports lifted my spirits and made me see life more positively. I pop my earbuds in, block out the noisy ward around me, and I am back in a happier place.

My road to recovery is a long one. My stay in hospital is undetermined. Set-backs in progress happen, but having access to entertainment helps lift my mood.

(David)

Assistive technology

Personal stories

How we help