Devonport plumber, Leon Pendrey has lent his knowledge to ensuring that a young mum living with multiple sclerosis is not forced to move into assisted living premises in the foreseeable future.

After listening to the local radio station in October, the plumber was overwhelmed by the story of a young mum living with multiple sclerosis.

Nikki Creed was diagnosed with MS four years ago, just months after giving birth to her daughter, Maddy, and since then has watched her health decline rapidly.  Now in a wheel chair, Nikki’s story was featured after a local business donated a chair, enabling Nikki to watch movies with her family, something we all take for granted.

Now, with several other local businesses, Leon is doing what he can to make Nikki’s life at home that little bit easier.

Project managing the building of a purpose designed bathroom, Nikki will now be able to maintain some independence thanks to Leon and Jock Renshaw from Laser Plumbing Devonport as well as many other local businesses that Leon has engaged to assist with the project.

Building the bathroom from the ground up, the tradies donated their time, working with Nikki’s father, David Creed, to ensure the result was what she needed.  The bathroom has been designed and built to enable easy mobility with a wheel chair and crutches and allows space for a carer to be present.

When asked why he decided to assist the family, his response was simple. “Because I can.”  Leon walked the Kokoda Track earlier this year and found that he returned with a different perspective on life and the role he played.

“I found that I wanted to try and make a difference where I could and really, helping the family was just a nice thing to do.”

Working on the project every weekend, Leon plans to continue helping the family where he can, including installing rails and adjusting doorways as Nikki becomes more reliant on her wheelchair and requires greater accessibility.

“Anything I can do to help Nikki stay in her home for as long as possible, I am happy to do” said Leon.

Leon would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the following businesses who have donated time and/or supplies on the project: Andrew Kent Plastering, Tradelink, Choices Flooring, Supply, GP Glass, Fusion Electrical, Mersey Sheet Metal,  Mick Leach-North West Water Proofing, Braddons Building Survey, Devonport City Council, Access Hardware and Gyprock Trade.