Testimonial

Hypoxic Brain Injury – Heroin Drug Overdose

‘Sometimes in life when you feel that there isn’t much hope there is someone their to open a door, and I’ve been lucky enough to meet someone like that in Dr Malcolm Hooper.

A couple of years ago I had a drug overdose and ended up with ‘hypoxic brain injury’. I had read of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in a magazine article, which had described the benefits in stroke victims, helping to restore function and improve the overall rehabilitative progress. When I heard that this same therapy was now available in Collins St Melbourne I was excited by the prospect of finally something that might make a difference, but also dismayed that it was beyond my financial reach, being on a disability pension.  

When I approached several of my neurologist and specialist doctors the concept of hyperbaric therapy was quickly dismissed and described as being ‘futile’, in fact one of my doctors went on to say that Dr Hooper was a ‘crook’! Indeed hyperbaric therapy within the public health system precludes stroke victims and others with neurological conditions from treatment and seems to be extremely controversial.  

It was sometime later that I heard of the website of Spinal Rehabilitation Group. It was the same Dr Hooper! I was encouraged by the section ‘Sponsor a Mate’ where Dr Hooper states that regardless of the situation physical and or economically if they think they can assist they will assist each and every person where possible. I was overwhelmed! They have taken me on as a sponsored patient and I have now received an initial series of treatments including hyperbaric therapy and each time I walk away feeling energetic and with renewed vigour. My short-term memory has improved, I feel clear headed instead of feeling constantly fuzzy. I have also been experiencing a return of dreams when I sleep which I have not experienced since my injury.  

It absolutely confounds and dismays me how this treatment is not ‘clinically recognised’ for stroke and other neurological conditions including spinal cord injury etc at least not to the point of its availability within the public health system.  

Just as well the world still has its share of enlightened souls and good Samaritans; Dr Mal Hooper – Thank you’ – John Emery