"I've had to pave my own way. To show the world that I'm just like everyone else," says Martha.
With a passion for leading changes for people with disability, Martha joined the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District Disability Consumer Council to influence consumer directed change.
“A lot of people with disabilities would like to do a lot more than they can if only someone would remove the barriers. A lot of this is due to other people’s attitudes,” says Martha.
By amplifying the voices of people with disabilities, listening to their experiences, and creating inclusive environments, Martha believes people with disabilities can enter health care with more confidence and inclusion.
“The person living with the disability is the expert on what they need, and their carer is the next best,” says Martha.
For Martha, this means having her carers with her while she stays in hospital to help with simple yet essential tasks like eating, drinking and getting around.
“My biggest challenge is that I need others to understand that I need those basic needs met,” says Martha.
This understanding, Martha believes, is the key to unlocking a world of possibilities and can help cater to the diverse needs of people with disabilities.
She encourages people to ask questions like, ‘What do you need?’, ‘How can we help make you more comfortable recovering or working in this space?’ with a simple caveat.
“Listen and hear the answer. Believe what is being said,” says Martha.
Andrew, Martha's dedicated carer, marvels at her resilience.
"When Martha puts her mind to something, she doesn't give up," says Andrew.
"It's surprising how often health care professionals assume they know what Martha needs and, in the process, underestimate her intelligence and overestimate her physical abilities. Martha has a high IQ, but under stress, she can't always operate a nurse call button," says Andrew.
For carers like Andrew, the journey can be equally demanding.
"You need to support the person you care for so they can flourish. Together, you both know what's needed, but don't hesitate to ask for help when you're tired," he added.
As International Day of People with Disabilities approaches, Martha's thoughts turned to the future.
"We need to listen, understand, and make the necessary changes to level the playing field," she says.
"People with disabilities have so much to offer, but often, barriers hold them back."
Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District’s Disability Consumer Council has been established to help raise awareness and educate the health district on the needs of people with disability.
“There is a vast array of disabilities represented in the Disability Consumer Council. They have a wealth of knowledge and can be a great source to help you,” says Martha.
Learn more about the Disability Consumer Council: https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/nbmlhd/get-involved/consumer-groups#toc-disability-consumer-council
Find out more about NBMLHD services for people with disability: https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/nbmlhd/patients-carers-visitors/disability
