Casualty of Havelock North gastro outbreak pleased with funding
A woman who developed a neurological disorder from the Havelock North gastro outbreak is pleased the Government is taking action on the country’s water infrastructure.
A $761 million package for a major overhaul of the country’s water sector was announced in Havelock North yesterday. The money will help councils upgrade creaking infrastructure and services.
April Singh, a mother of eight, said it was her strong spirit and her children that kept her going after she developed Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS), which can develop in the weeks after a campylobacter infection.
She was one of 5200 affected by the outbreak in 2016. Her illness means the body’s immune system attacks nerves that control movement and feeling.
She is still unable to work fulltime, and works part-time at the St Vincent de Paul stores in Hastings and Flaxmere. ‘‘Before I got unwell I was working three jobs. I’m blessed to still be able to work for them (St Vincent De Paul).’’
Singh described her work team as her ‘‘korowai’’ when she was extremely unwell.
‘‘It’s great to see something being done about the water, even after four years. I wonder if I can get employment suitable to my health conditions with the council wastewater/drinking water sector. I’m cheeky enough to put that out there.’’
Singh’s health condition meant she could not stand for long periods and holding a pen or using a computer was ‘‘very limited’’ as her hands were swollen. ‘‘I take eight pills a day so my legs don’t spasm and for pain. It has also affected my breathing. The bright side is you cannot break my spirit. My children keep me going.’’
After she got sick Singh would source her water from chlorinefree taps and buy bottled water, but eventually threw in the towel.
‘‘Now I just drink tap water.
What’s the worst thing that can happen? I’m prepared to take life now as it comes.’’
Her illness was not covered by ACC and Singh said she, among others affected, felt ‘‘let down’’ by the health system.
‘‘I felt very let down by many people, over the whole issue, the DHB, ACC, the lawyer and the council. The biggest thing that I hate now is I’m 45, but feel like I’m 70. A car is my feet and I tire easily.’’
From the funding, Singh said she would like to see an outcome of ‘‘safe and monitored water to drink.’’
‘‘And no-one passing the buck if there is any future issues,’’ she said.