It’s been a massive effort, but we’re so excited to share that Shane’s bathroom renovation is coming together!
This isn’t just a home improvement, it’s about making sure Shane has a space that is both functional and welcoming. Too often, accessibility means stark, clinical, hospital-like designs, but that’s not what we wanted. This is Shane’s home, and it should feel like it. We wanted a space that not only works for him but also feels warm, inviting, and positive, a place that supports his needs without stripping away comfort and personality.
As Shane’s mobility changes, having a functional, accessible space isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. Without it, something as simple as using the bathroom safely becomes a daily challenge. Every detail in this renovation has been designed to reduce strain on him and us as carers, minimise the risk of falls, and allow him to maintain as much dignity and independence as possible for as long as possible.
The building work is now complete, roof lowered, floor lowered, door widened, and a cavity slider installed. Electrical rough-in is done, plastering is finished, and waterproofing was completed last Sunday. Tiling starts later this week, and the cabinetry fit-out is about to begin, bringing us another step closer to a finished, accessible, and practical space.
One of our biggest considerations was ensuring we didn’t just remove storage to make the space accessible. The previous vanity was quite large, and we knew we had to incorporate ample storage while still keeping the space functional for Shane. While we initially considered a height-adjustable basin, we decided on a fixed cabinetry setup with an accessible basin in that location, complete with a sensor tap for ease of use. This setup ensures accessibility while still keeping the room practical for everyday needs—because accessibility should never mean sacrificing usability.
We had no choice but to make these changes, both Mum and Shane’s bathrooms originally had a shower over a bath, making them completely unsuitable as Shane’s mobility declines. Without these renovations, something as simple as showering would be impossible without major risk. Now, we’re creating a space where he can maintain dignity, comfort, and safety while still feeling at home.
We are beyond grateful to the incredible people who have helped make this happen. Thanks to private fundraising, trade discounts, and some amazing generosity, we’ve managed to save around $20,000 in costs—money that can now go towards Shane’s ongoing care and needs.
A huge thank you so far to:
– Shane from Cadelec – for all the electrical work (and countless hours spent on weekends helping with demolition and rough-in!)
– Travis Capp Plumbing & Crew – for their hard work in making sure the plumbing was done right.
– JTS Custom Carpentry – for the building work and for coordinating so much of the project, including cabinetry and tiling.
– Mark from Wet Seal Bayside – for giving up his Sunday to complete the waterproofing.
(there will be more to add to this list, but i will incldue them as i post more updates)
This journey hasn’t been easy, but every step forward makes daily life a little bit easier for Shane and those who love him.
To everyone who has contributed, whether by donating, offering services or materials, or even just sharing our story, thank you. Your support means the world to us.
You can still donate, as we still have some costs to pay, once this project is over though and paid for, we will be back to fundraising directly for MND Vic, who have been an incredible support on this journey. Any excess funds not used directly for this renovation will be also forwarded to MND VIC. https://shanelewismndbattle.com/donations/givewp-donation-form-2/
I’ll share more photos soon as the tiling gets underway. We’re getting so close now!
