The rest of the world fell away as Mark and Pauline gazed up at the stars. Earlier in the afternoon, they had chatted with the local farmers after embarking on a wheelchair accessible bush adventure.

They spent three days exploring new paths, taking in the beautiful scenery, and spending quality family time together.

Camping on a timber-growing property west of Wauchope, New South Wales, Mark and Pauline sat by the campfire surrounded by family. They sang along to their favourite tunes, recited poetry and listened to the gentle crackle of the fire.

It was the second time Mark and Pauline had set off on a camping trip since Mark’s Motor Neurone Disease diagnosis in 2014. For this latest trip, they invited along Mark’s support professional from Just Better Care to share in the adventure and ensure Mark could fully embrace the experience.

Pauline said when they first received Mark’s diagnosis, their lives changed instantly. Mark had to stop work completely and needed assistance with his everyday activities.

But the one thing that never waned is his enthusiasm for do-it-yourself projects. Mark has installed refurbished hoists in their home for managing his transfers and constructed a glass walled bee box in his bedroom, with bees set to arrive in early spring.

As Mark’s condition has deteriorated, his need for added support has increased.

To maintain his quality of life, Mark and Pauline approached Just Better Care to access a range of services, including social support, respite care and overnight support.

Pauline said having a reliable support network was very important in situations such as these.

“Mark’s diagnosis was difficult, but we discovered just how many people really care for him, which is really touching,” Pauline said.

“Our adult children are all tremendously supportive, as are our extended family and many friends.”

Recycling and solving practical problems with other people’s junk is another interest of Mark’s. He loves starting new projects, particularly in building and construction.

“He has tech friends who provide the hands to do this these days, while Mark does the creative problem solving and gives instructions,” Pauline explained.

“Some of his support workers love contributing to various aspects of putting parts together and repairing pieces for Mark’s projects. Their involvement adds quite a dimension of interest and enjoyment to projects.

“His support workers are fantastic; they certainly make life much easier for Mark and myself.”