OperationMD! SWAP

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Do you have a neuromuscular disorder?

Would you like to go away for the weekend and meet new people with similar interests and needs? Then this program may be for you!!

What is OperationMD! SWAP?

OperationMD! SWAP (Social Weekend Adult Program) is a social/recreational opportunity, designed for adults who are affected by a neuromuscular disorder. It involves both day and overnight outings in various locations within Victoria.

Why have OperationMD! SWAP?

OperationMD! SWAP is an excellent opportunity for adults with a neuromuscular disorder to meet and socialize with peers in an informal setting. The aim of the program is to provide participants with a memorable and positive experience

Trained MDA staff provide the support required to ensure that the program participants have a memorable experience.

OperationMD! SWAP also gives primary carers and families a much needed break from their duties of caring for their loved on with a disability.

How many people are at an OperationMD! SWAP?

Each overnight OperationMD! SWAP involves 7 people with a neuromuscular disorder. All efforts are made to ensure that participants are matched according to age and interests. They are supported by 3 trained staff throughout the weekend.

How many OperationMD! SWAP?

Each year MDA conducts approximately 2-3 OperationMD! SWAP’s within each Melbourne Metropolitan region.

Accomodation

MDA sources accommodation which is wheelchair friendly and can accommodate the number of people who attend.

Common destinations throughout Victoria are Bendigo, Phillip Island, Warburton and Rye.

The accommodation is usually a 4-5 bedroom house which is fully self contained.

What is the Cost?

There is no cost for the participant or the family. Transport, accommodation, meals and activities are covered by MDA.

How do I get there?

Participants are required to make their own way to a pre determined meeting point which is selected by MDA. The meeting point is usually within the participant’s region.

Participants will be picked up from the meeting point, by an MDA vehicle on Friday Morning and dropped off at the same meeting point on Sunday afternoon.

If you are not able to get yourself to the meeting point we encourage you to contact MDA and discuss alternative transportation with the Respite Coordinator. 

What Activities?

Activities for the weekend are planned and resourced to ensure that each participant undertakes activities within their ability and activity outcomes contribute to positive self esteem. Some examples of the type of activities are- going to the movies, visiting a museum or other tourist attractions, having a picnic in the park, going out for dinner in a pub or restaurant.

Testimonials

“It was such fun and I’ve come home with a whole new group of friends, to say nothing of a new sense of courage that it is possible to go away and do things I haven’t dreamed about for many moons.”

“It would be very difficult for me to go away without the carers and they are always kind, caring and friendly.”

 “I really love going away and catching up with all the people it remains a highlight of my life.”

“As always when I go away with MDA I am impressed with the time and care we are given. It always seems to me that nothing is too much trouble for the carers.”

How do I access OperationMD! SWAP?

If you think that this may be a program that you would like to attend, you are caring for someone who you think would benefit from this program, or would like more information about OperationMD! SWAP.

Contact the Respite Coordinator at MDA and they will provide you or the person you care for with further information, details on specific program dates and destinations and any relevant paperwork.

These programs are available, however please note, they may not be available or accessible in all geographic locations. To find out more - contact the MDA on 03 9320 9555 or email Info@mda.org.au