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WINTER 2025 InTouch | 13 LIVING WITH PASSION AND A PURPOSE Photo: thewarehouse.co.nz When it comes to dealing with the New Zealand health system, Craig offers practical advice. While many find it complex, he’s had a different experience thanks to his proactive mindset and advocacy skills, learned from intelligent and supportive parents. His key tip? “Base your assessments on your worst day, not your best. That’s the reality you’re planning for.” He also emphasises the value of making things easier for the people trying to help. “How do you make their life easier so they can help you better? It speeds things up and makes support more effective.” Craig is open to connecting with others in the community and offering encouragement. One message he’s passionate about is shifting how people see themselves in relation to their condition. “I don’t associate myself with a disability,” he says. “You’re good at other things. This thing is not you. Try something else. Keep moving forward.” In a life shaped by rare challenges, Craig’s story is one of self-awareness, strength, and optimism—reminding us all of the power in focusing on what we can do. My name is Jan Fels and I live with my husband Paul and our son Mitchell, aged 31, who has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Keeping Mitch warm is a number one priority in our household, and we have found some amazing accessories that assist Mitch with this. Blanket The first item is the Living & Co heated throw blanket priced at $49 from The Warehouse. Mitch has had a few of these which are good for keeping him warm when he is at his computer. This plush throw features a soft, sherpa-lined texture for ultimate comfort during cooler evenings, while its user- friendly controls allow for easy temperature adjustments to suit your personal comfort level. For more details, visit: https://tinyurl.com/ p8se3c4r Heated Boots The second accessory that Mitch has is heated boots. We got onto these a few years ago after a friend had told us about them. They are a bit expensive and can only be sourced fromVolt Heat in the USA but for the price they have been a godsend for Mitch and his cold feet. They have rechargeable batteries that sit in a pocket on the ankle and have 3 heat settings. The soles of the boots are heated by these. They last for a few hours on the low setting but of course would run out quickly on the high setting. We find these to be good value. For more details, visit: https://voltheat.com/collections/ heated-footwear (Photo: voltheat.com ) Chairpod The third accessory that we have is the Under The Weather chair pod. We decided that Mitch would benefit from one of these for when we are out and about during the cold months. Cost was ok and not too expensive. For more details, visit: https://tinyurl.com/228f5jxz (Photo: www.shopweatherpod.com ) Handwarmers Lastly, we have the hand warmer that attaches to the driving console of the wheelchair. This has been a totally amazing piece of equipment that has kept Mitch driving through the coldest temperatures even the extreme cold of being in NewYork a few years ago! https://tinyurl.com/4bywzyvu Member Jan Fels shares her tips for keeping her son Mitch, 31, warm over the cooler months. Keeping warm this winter