May 2022

World Multiple Sclerosis Day

Advocacy, Inclusion and diversity / June 10, 2022

I loved listening to the stories of people living with Multiple Sclerosis on World MS Day (30th May). Many Multiple Sclerosis symptoms are invisible – this is the case for many disabilities, including those related to learning, attention, mental health, and chronic pain.

I believe in supporting and empowering people to speak up about their lived experiences of disability, to make their disabilities more visible. We need to listen and seek to understand their experiences to become more aware of how we can treat others and offer support. Let’s continue to break down the stigma and systemic barriers against disability in our society – because every person has the right to live their life to their full potential.

Thank you to MS SA and NT and Multiple Solutions for your dedication toward building a more inclusive society.

Limestone coast Tour of Honour

Advocacy, Inclusion and diversity / June 5, 2022

It was so wonderful to be part of the Tour of Honour on the Limestone coast last week, speaking to students, teachers, community members and leaders. I spoke on inclusion, oral healthcare, and shared the stories of the incredible people I have cared for as their Special Needs Dentistry Specialist. I continue to be astounded by the profound impact that words can have people’s lives. People came up to me saying, they were moved to tears by my stories, they are inspired to tell others, they now understand and see things differently, there were even high school students who said they want to be a dentist! I’m here to make the biggest impact I can, and so since speaking up is making a difference, that is what I will continue to do. I encourage you all to do the same – don’t underestimate the impact your words can have too.

Forum at University of SA
Mayor of Mount Gambier
Mount Gambier High School
Tennison Woods College