Back
1292 days ago

Father has 'no regret' over helping brothers, despite spine injury that will cost $85k to fix

Caroline Williams Reporter from North Shore Times

Kia ora neighbours. Reece Leitch just wants to play with his young daughters, but a back injury – that will cost around $85,000 to fix – has left him unable to be as involved in their playtime as he once was.

The 27-year-old, from Hillcrest first started having back problems at 10 years old, when he started helping to care for his older brothers, Ryan and Blake, who have muscular dystrophy.

As the only able-bodied man in his family, Leitch would do a lot of the physically demanding tasks, including lifting his brothers in and out of their wheelchairs, beds and the bathroom.

“There’s no doubt, or regret, that looking after my brothers from a young age had an effect on the health of my spine,” he said.

After suffering two slipped discs last year, Leitch is now reliant on medication for his “constant pain”.

Leitch needs disc replacement surgery, but ACC will no longer fund his treatment.

He’s now taking his bid for treatment overseas and hopes a purpose-built spine clinic in Germany will be able to fix his back and get him playing with his daughters and playing sports again.

Click 'read more' for our full story.
If you'd like to make a donation towards Leitch's surgery, you can do so here: givealittle.co.nz...

More messages from your neighbours
1 day ago

Poll: Are quality products on the decline?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Gift-giving looks a lot different these days when you can pick up super-cheap goods made overseas. But do they last?

Do you have any old items like appliances, electronics or clothing that have stood the test of time? Share below!

Image
Are quality products on the decline?
  • 91.9% Yes
    91.9% Complete
  • 7.2% No
    7.2% Complete
  • 0.9% Other - I'll share below
    0.9% Complete
885 votes
3 hours ago

Cultivating Competent Kids with the KonMari Method @ Glenfield Library

Honour Zhu from Glenfield Library

Here at Glenfield Library, this coming Saturday (7th December) at 11am, we have KonMari® Consultant Celine Sumic coming in to talk to parents about how to help your children take ownership of organising their own space. This is a perfect presentation for School Leavers and children to take the next step in their future. ❤👏

Image
4 hours ago

Poll: Would you rather:

Jay from Beds4U Glenfield

We all deserve a space where we can truly unwind and recharge, so if you could upgrade ONE thing in your bedroom, what would it be?
Tell us which upgrade would transform your bedroom into the perfect retreat! Drop your answer below and let’s see what everyone’s dreaming of for their sleep haven!

Image
Would you rather:
  • 56.3% A better mattress
    56.3% Complete
  • 25% New pillows
    25% Complete
  • 18.8% Cosier decorations
    18.8% Complete
16 votes