18/03/2026
Celebrating swallowing awareness day!
https://www.facebook.com/share/18GYMeYXUt/?mibextid=wwXIfr
A cup of tea might seem like a small thing, until you canβt have one. βπ
After a backyard accident last year, Rockhampton Hospital patient David spent months unable to eat or drink safely and relied on a feeding tube.
When David arrived at our Rehabilitation Unit, he was determined to get back to the things he loves β starting with a simple cup of tea.
With support from our Speech Pathology team, he worked through daily therapy to rebuild his swallowing strength.
Last week, he reached a milestone heβd been waiting for: enjoying his first cup of tea again. And now, heβs back to eating soft foods with a knife and fork.
βWith Briegeβs guidance, Iβve slowly been able to increase what I can eat,β David said.
βIβm a bull at a gate and would have liked to move faster, but I appreciate that sheβs been careful and made sure I didnβt overdo it. It helps that we get along well and have a bit of fun.β
We're sharing David's story for Swallowing Awareness Day (18 March) β to help raise awareness of dysphagia (swallowing difficulties) and the impact it can have on everyday life.
Our speech pathologists like Briege (pictured) play an important role in helping patients regain safe swallowing, supporting their health and quality of life.
Keep up the great recovery, David! ππ
