A Dunedin man, who was not expected to live following an accident almost 50 years ago, has made an impassioned plea for the retention of neurosurgery services.
This Christmas will mark 49 years since Bill Lean fell while trying to cut down a tree.
He remembers the long, uncomfortable ride from Riversdale to Gore Hospital, and the doctors patting the then 19-year-old on the head "as I wasn't expected to live".
Mr Lean, on behalf of Parafed Otago - a non-profit organisation which helps the physically disabled into recreation and sport - said members wanted to express "grave concern" over the possible withdrawal of neurosurgery.
Of particular concern to the 80 members was the potential for the downgrade of other services, particularly those associated with spinal injuries, such as neurology and orthopaedic surgery.
"These are all interconnected ... they all support each other and help the patient as a whole."
At the group's annual meeting last week, it was decided to send a letter to the National list MP for Dunedin North, Michael Woodhouse, to pass on to Health Minister Tony Ryall.
Mr Lean said the Government should be doing its utmost to help those at risk of permanent disability, which came at an enormous cost not only to the patient but also health services: "You have to look at these things long term."
