Adjustable bed delivers ‘future-proof’ independence to Natasha who lives with Familial Dysautonomia

Natasha Lawrence, aged 25 from Mill Hill, north London, is a sociable and positive lady who lives with a challenging disability and is dependent on carers 24/7. To assist her carers and to gain greater independence Natasha has recently taken ownership of a specialist Rotoflex turning bed system from Theraposture.

This dual combination bed provides powered adjustment on one half for Natasha and a variable height and profiling platform for her husband who requires less assistance when getting in and out of bed.

Diagnosed at 14 months old, Natasha has Familial Dysautonomia – a rare genetic disorder that affects the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary actions such as digestion,breathing and the regulation of blood pressure and body temperature. Natasha also has Scoliosis and a complication following unsuccessful spinal surgery – hence she uses a wheelchair to remain mobile. Before owning a Rotoflex transferring in and out of bed and repositioning independently at night was very challenging for Natasha. However,now her Double Combination Rotoflex Bed provides electronic profiling, variable height and rotation – empowering Natasha to reposition herself and assisting her carers. It provides a safe working height and allows Natasha to get in and out of bed on her own terms. Transferring to and from bed into her wheelchair is now a much safer daily task and easier for all.

Despite being dependent on specialist care, Natasha is a determined individual who continues to fill her life with rewarding social and work-based activities. With the ability to relax and sleep better thanks to her new Rotoflex, Natasha is thriving at home and during her work at the local AspireLeisure centre. The Aspire centre in Stanmore is a pioneering leisure and sports facility that provides world-leading accessibility. Natasha is aiming to setup a new adapted Frisbee league and has recently received support from the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan.

Natasha and her mother, Rosalind Jacobs, were initially recommended a Theraposture Rotoflex by their Occupational Therapist.Rosalind explains: “We could see that a rotating bed would benefit Natasha enormously and it was clear that only the Rotoflex had the range of options. Our OT’s recommendation led us to meeting Nick Lythe, one of Theraposture’s TrustedAssessors, who explained why their quality Rotoflex is a proven choice. We attended a demonstration and decided this bed would be ideal for Natasha’s needs. However with our search continuing for a new, more accessible home, we decided to put the order on hold. In the interim Theraposture were very supportive and loaned us free of charge a single profiling bed to ease day-to-day difficulties. Theraposture’s Managing Director, David Holtum, dealt with us direct throughout the whole period and despite our requirements changing several times, he was always caring and understanding.”

Rosalind selected a separable dual combination bed including the Rotoflex turning system, with a handcrafted solid oak surround. The beds have central locking for easy separation when required. The powered precision Rotoflex mechanism adjusts the height of the mattress head and foot ends, raises the complete sleeping platform and fully rotates to a seated configuration. This means Natasha can exit the bed or change her sleeping position without disturbing her husband. Natasha controls her movement using an intuitive hand controller and can sit up with the touch of only one button. As with all bespoke Theraposture beds, the quality German-made mechanisms can be hidden by a stylish,domestic enclosure so that the assistive device looks at home in any home. 

Rosalind continues: “On completion of our house purchase I experienced a very busy and stressful time. The fact that Theraposture were so accommodating made my life easier. At that timeI was sorting the house, looking after Natasha and managing the rapid conversion of a bathroom to an accessible wet room. Theraposture were able to come and install the Rotoflex bed at short notice and their fitters were professional and efficient. Theraposture were even able to supply matching bespoke oak furniture and sheets for Natasha and her husband’s new bedroom.” 

The Rotoflex bed is an essential piece of equipment for everyone in the household. Natasha has greater independence, her husband can share the same bed and her carers have less manual moving and handling. 

Rosalind continues: “Our Rotoflex gives us choice at home in terms of powered assistance.Sometimes we may not need all of its functionality however having profiling, variable height, rotation and separation gives us options. Plus the bed is future-proof so if Natasha’s condition changes, we know that the Rotoflex will be able to provide the support we need.”

Rosalind concludes: “Its comfort and flexibility has greatly improved Natasha’s quality of sleep so she has much more energy during the day. As her senses are highly developed and can fluctuate dramatically, being able to relax and feel settled is so important for Natasha. Our Rotoflex bed helps with this so much and has made life easier for all of us. Over and above the product, I would recommend Theraposture for its impeccable level of service. Throughout the whole assessment,selection and installation process Theraposture were fair and honest and now continue to support us.”

http://www.theraposture.co.uk/beds/rotoflex
Freephone: 0800 834654