A Bury man with a mild learning disability has seen his GP for the first time in 40 years, thanks to a local nurse.
Adrian Nuzzo, 52, had a fear of doctors and wouldn’t attend appointments, despite his family’s best efforts to encourage him.
He had a knee injury earlier this year and struggled to walk. His family were very concerned as he was in pain and getting worse. So, they spoke to his GP who referred him to the Bury adult learning disability team, run by Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust.
He met with Kirsty Sloan, community learning disability nurse, who worked with him to understand his health needs and support him to overcome his worries and anxiety.
Kirsty said: “It’s very common for people with learning disabilities to fear medical appointments or health professionals.
“It’s vital we support people to overcome their worries, as it can lead to delays in getting help and missed opportunities to identify potentially serious issues. It’s one of the key reasons why people with a learning disability experience significant health inequalities.
“Adrian and I worked through his worries and tackled them one by one to build his confidence and reduce his anxiety.”
Just over a month later, Adrian went to see his GP, who examined his knee, referred him for an x-ray and carried out a full health check.
He’s since been diagnosed with osteoarthritis and is receiving treatment. He’s also seen an optician, is working with a range of services, and having a care act assessment to help him live more independently in the future.
Through conversations with Adrian, Kirsty learned he was very worried about losing his job after making a mistake with some new equipment.
She went along to his disciplinary meetings to ensure he felt reassured and supported, understood what was discussed and knew what he had to do.
Kirsty also worked with the HR department to look at what reasonable adjustments and support he needed while at work.
Adrian kept his job and was put back on the equipment he was familiar with. Kirsty said: “I felt it was so important to be there with him during, what can be, a very stressful and confusing process.”
“I spoke up for Adrian and made sure he was receiving the right support to flourish at work. He’s now very happy and confident he can do his job well. It’s a fantastic outcome.”
Adrian’s mother, Maureen Nuzzo, said: “For years we have struggled to get Adrian in a place where he feels comfortable engaging with health services and social care. He’s gone without getting the help and support he needs.
“It’s such a relief knowing he feels safe reaching out to GP and is receiving the right care. And he’s looking at what support is available in his future.
“His quality of life has improved and we’re so thankful to Kirsty and the team. They’ve changed his life for the better.”
Kirsty added: “We want to make sure everyone with a learning disability is healthy, happy and feels fulfilled. If you, or your loved one, hasn’t had a health check in the last year, please get in touch with your GP. We’re here to offer advice and support if you need it.”
