In the spirit of reconciliation, CheckUP acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples should be aware that this website contains images or names of people who have passed away.
CheckUP works with partner organisations and health providers to create healthier communities and reduce health inequities through a range of initiatives.
View allCheckUP works with partner organisations and health providers to create healthier communities and reduce health inequities through a range of initiatives.
View allThere are so many ways you can support the work of CheckUP and our vision of better health for the people and communities that need it most.
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Article originally shared in CheckUP’s IMPACT Magazine Vol. 1o
It was 1991 and I was six years old, standing next to my mother in her favourite jewellery store in our small suburban town when a woman told her that I would struggle academically. “You will have to come to terms with it”, the woman told her. “She’s not smart. You will have to make plans for this. It’s not fair to you and it’s not fair to her.” My speech was delayed until I was eight years old. I have encountered numerous levels of stigma throughout my life – yet this comment, when I was six years old… never left me. Never underestimate the power of words.
I have only recently started discussing my synaesthesia. I work in diabetes and metabolic health – everything is graphs and numbers. My singular focus allowed me to achieve high marks in my post-graduation qualifications, start multiple businesses and run clinics across half of Australia. People living with autism or neurodivergence are more than their list of perceived deficits. When understood, we contribute greatly to the world around us.
As a business owner living with autism, ADHD, and dyslexia, I recognise that individuals with firsthand knowledge of their conditions are the true experts in their lives. Sharing my experiences with disability can help me help others overcome stigma – creating more inclusivity and compassion. Openness fosters understanding and acceptance and empowers others to share their stories. Together, we can build healthier, more vibrant communities that celebrate and support disability and neurodiversity.
Approximately 18% of Australia’s population is estimated to have a disability, with around 10% experiencing profound discrimination that hinders their day-to-day activities, including medical visits. This discrimination has tangible effects on their health and mental wellbeing. The healthcare system still struggles with addressing the historical and present stigma surrounding disability.
CheckUP’s Access for All training course bridges gaps in knowledge and experience that healthcare providers face in delivering patient-centred, culturally safe care to people with disability. This initiative, funded by the NDIA, equips healthcare providers like Macintyre Health with vital tools and resources for delivering person-centred care.
Find out moreArticle originally shared in CheckUP’s IMPACT Magazine Vol. 1o