516 days ago

Auditory Processing Disorder

Rhondda Sweetman from Plimmerton Rotary

This week’s speaker was Natalie Bryan, whose son Jackson suffers from Auditory Processing Disorder, or APD. Natalie is a multi-tasker who runs a tiling business with her husband, is a life coach, has two children, and recently has become an author and illustrator.

Jackson’s condition was first noticed when he was traumatised at a particularly noisy family day out. Essentially, APD means that sounds received by the ears are scrambled in the brain and lose much of their meaning. It varies in its effect and severity. Symptoms include tiredness and poor memory retention, and can lead to loss of self-confidence and behavioural problems. Up to 6% of children may be suffering from APD.

There is no cure for APD, but the brain can be trained to lessen its effects.

APD sufferers need support, and supporters need networks. Natalie decided to write, illustrate and publish a book (“JC the Bumble Bee”) in 2022 to describe Jackson’s journey. It lists resources available to the parents of APD sufferers.

Natalie played an audio simulation of what APD feels like, which was disturbing.

Natalie is an accomplished speaker and asked the club to help publicise and spread her new book to those who may need it.

She was kind enough to share her presentation which you can find here. JC_bumble_Bee_Presentation.pdf

More messages from your neighbours
1 day ago

Riddle Time! Sharpen Your Mind and Take the Challenge!

Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

Where is the only place where today comes before yesterday?

Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.

Want to stop seeing riddles in your newsfeed?
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3 days ago

Poll: Is the increase in disability parking fines fair?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

In October, the fine for parking in a designated mobility car park without a permit has jumped from $150 to $750—a 400% increase!

The goal is to keep these spaces open for those who truly need them. Do you think this big increase in the fine is fair? Share your thoughts below.

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Is the increase in disability parking fines fair?
  • 89.4% Yes, it's fair
    89.4% Complete
  • 9.8% No, it's unreasonable
    9.8% Complete
  • 0.8% Other - I'll share below
    0.8% Complete
2289 votes
18 hours ago

Just dough it

The Team from Resene ColorShop Petone

With three basic ingredients and a bit of creativity, you can give old containers new life with Resene testpots.

Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.

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