Anne Funke
Disability Pathway Navigator
South Eastern Sydney Local Health District
“I provide support and guidance to staff across the district to build their capacity and disability confidence. This enables them to better respond to the needs of people living with a disability who are patients, clients and consumers.
I am a working carer and advocate for Mitchell, my 23 year old intellectually disabled son, who has Angelman Syndrome - a rare genetic disorder. Life can be very challenging and busy as Mitchell is non-verbal and fully dependent on us for all of his care needs. Whilst it is hard to juggle my work and caring responsibilities it is also very rewarding.
It’s important to me that I am able to make a difference for people living with a disability and their carers when they access and navigate the health system. I use my lived experience to increase public awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability.”
3 December is International Day of People with a Disability, which aims to increase public awareness, understanding and acceptance of people living with a disability and celebrate their achievements and contributions.