Geraldton staff go above and beyond on couple’s special day
Alan and Glenys Desmond didn’t plan to spend their 60th wedding anniversary in hospital, but Geraldton Health Campus staff have gone above and beyond to help them celebrate the milestone.
With Alan undergoing rehabilitation for a spinal fracture, hospital staff surprised the couple on their special day with a lovingly baked homemade cake.
“It was a celebration not only of their enduring partnership, but of the spirit that continues to inspire us all,” Operations Manager Cameron Ross said.
“It was a privilege to acknowledge and celebrate one of our most inspiring patients and his wonderful wife.”
Born and raised on a Mullewa farm, Alan has lived a life defined by resilience and determination.
At age 21, he was involved in a motor vehicle accident that resulted in complete paraplegia.
After 10 months of rehabilitation, he returned to farming, modifying vehicles and equipment so he could continue doing what he loved.
Alan and Glenys married in 1965, raising four children while working the land in Chapman Valley.
Though he retired in 2003, Alan’s passion for the farm – and life itself – has never waned.
In 2025, he faced another challenge after fracturing his spine in a second motor vehicle accident.
“He has been rehabilitating here at Geraldton Health Campus. Throughout his stay, he has shown extraordinary strength and grace and has spoken with heartfelt appreciation for our staff,” Cameron said.
Alan said the team had shown extraordinary care and compassion.
“I have nothing but good things to say about my time here,” he said.
“All the staff are amazing; I cannot thank them enough.”
Alan’s rehabilitation has been supported by a dedicated multidisciplinary team, each contributing their expertise to ensure a holistic approach to his recovery.
The team includes physiotherapists focusing on mobility and strength, occupational therapists assisting with daily living skills and adaptive strategies, nurses providing ongoing care and monitoring, and medical staff overseeing treatment plans and progress.
Speech pathologists have also been supporting communication and swallowing, while social workers have helped coordinate discharge planning and community support.
“Together, this team has worked collaboratively to deliver patient-centred care tailored to individual needs,” Cameron said.
“On behalf of everyone at Geraldton Health Campus, congratulations to Alan and Glenys on their diamond anniversary. Their story reminds us why we do what we do.”