Meet Emily
When Emily was first diagnosed, she thought: “Why did this happen to me?” Now, she believes it happened to her, so that she could make a positive difference to others.
Emily received the devastating diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) at the young age of 17.
She had been experiencing symptoms such as walking difficulties and problems with her vision since she was 12 years old. But following an episode of losing her vision entirely, she was given an MRI scan, which showed multiple lesions on her brain and spine.
She listened, barely comprehending, as her mother was advised to start looking for a retirement home and respite care.
"I was essentially being told at the age of 17 that my life was over.”
Luckily, she quickly connected with MS Queensland who helped her see that nothing could be further from the truth.
“They immediately corrected some of my misconceptions, and connected me with an amazing psychologist who helped me begin processing and reframing what was happening.”
For Emily, this reframing was the beginning of a remarkable journey which saw her not just manage her condition, but draw from it the inspiration and strength to build a new career – one that would help and inspire many others.
“My diagnosis helped me to see needs in the community that I’d never been aware of before. I knew then that I wanted to be an advocate for people with disabilities, and to help them see – as I have seen – that a disability does not stop you achieving. Far from it.”
Emily pursued a career in special education, and today supports people with disabilities to build their education and career. Many of her students are the exact same age that Emily was when she was diagnosed – and it means the world to her to be able to give them the sense of hope that she so craved at that time.
“MS Queensland has connected me to some wonderful health professionals who have advocated for me at every turn. And I want to be that advocate for others; the support person who backs you and tells you that a neurological condition does not stop you from living your dreams. You can do anything – you might just need a little support along the way.”
Emily encourages anyone with a neurological condition to reach out for the supports that are available to them. “I was hesitant at first. I almost didn’t want to admit to myself that I needed help. But now, I wish I’d done it sooner."
As well as a physiotherapist to help maintain her mobility, Emily works with MS Queensland’s specialist employment consultants who have helped her modify her working conditions. Before accessing this service, Emily was considering giving up work. Instead she has gone on to have her most successful year at work to date.
Emily’s personal life is just as awe-inspiring. She has recently taken up wheelchair racing – something that has added a new sense of challenge and thrill to her life - and she was the first woman to complete the 4km Wheelchair Race in the Brisbane Marathon in 2024. “I have an amazing trainer who pushes me to go further than I ever thought I could. I have met the most amazing people, from children, to older people, all of whom are so strong, and are pushing themselves to do things they never thought possible.”
But the person who inspires Emily the most? Her two-year old daughter. “My biggest goal is for her to be proud of me, and to know that there is no barrier in life that can stop her from achieving.”
And just like her other goals, we’re betting Emily will smash it.
"Right now, my disability is probably at its worst, but I’m at my happiest – and that’s because I’ve finally tapped into the services I need.”
- Emily
