We had the privilege of having a wonderful Guest Speaker at our recent Club meeting on Zoom- Matthew Ames. See Matthew's full story at www.renovatingmatthew.com
It is a rare day that one truly meets an individual who is truly “inspirational.” Matthew Ames is such a person.
When Brisbane engineer Matthew Ames fell ill in June 2013, he thought he had just come down with the flu. Four doctors agreed, sending him home to rest. But when the pain became unbearable, he took himself to hospital.
Matthew had contracted a streptococcal infection that ravaged his body, leading to the amputation of both arms and both legs. Rather than dwell on what he’d lost, Matthew got on with rehabilitation and adjusting to his new normal, with his wife, Diane, and four kids by his side. And so began the inspiring story of an ordinary family's courage and determination to make the most of a terrible situation.
What happened to Matthew could happen to anyone. But not everyone would accept what life offers and pursue possibilities in the way that he does. Matthew has astounded doctors with his adaptation to a new way of living, so much so that he is about to become a bionic man. And he has never once questioned Diane's decision – it gave him the chance to truly understand how much family matters and to appreciate humanity.Matthew's story is one of hope, commitment and love. Matthew Ames was 39 years old when what started as a sore throat resulted in the loss of all four of his limbs. He had contracted streptococcal resulting in toxic shock and was never expected to survive. Now nine years later Matthew has beaten the odds, spurred on by the fact that he is the father of four young children and husband of a very dedicated wife determined to grow old with him.
Matthew has met many unexpected milestones, such as learning to drive his modified car. He can be seen around Brisbane on the sidelines cheering on one (or more) of the children playing sport. He serves on boards for organisations such as Hear and Say, and works closely with the government and other organisations to prevent sepsis happening to others. He also gives the odd speech and appears on stage every now and then.
