Kirisimasi Lam Sam: facing life after a debilitating stroke

Meet Kirisimasi Lam Sam, a mother of 3 and a proud Grandmother to 11 wonderful grandchildren. In July 2022 she suffered a massive stroke leaving her with significant paralysis and facing the uphill battle of learning to do some of the most basic tasks again – walking, talking, and caring for herself.

After 6 months in hospital Kirisi returned home, the home she and her husband had lived in for 20 years. This was the home where they had made very special memories with their children as they grew up, a home that had suited them very well until Kirisi suffered this debilitating stroke. As their home complied with the healthy homes standard of insulation and had a clean air approved log burner, they did not qualify for a heat pump.

Unfortunately for Kirisi managing a log burner was one step to far in her recovery journey, she was not able to manage the tasks of maintaining a fire, gathering the wood, kindling, lighting, and stoking the fire. Kirisi’s husband worked long hours, so their only option was to use an oil column heater which was not that effectual or economical and only heated a very small space.

We are delighted to say that Kirisi is now toasty and warm – Kianga Ora under their “Whole of house” heating scheme installed not one but 3 heat pumps!!  – a large economic unit in the lounge and 2 smaller units in the bedrooms.

What a fantastic outcome for Kirisi – this will go along way in aiding her recovery.

 We are proud to be part of her story….