A Stella Story

It's Saturday, the sun is shining and we begin the day with a trip to the library to return Mel's DVDs and books she borrowed last week.  We enjoy a five minute walk in the autumn sun before driving to the deli and picking up today's West Australian newspaper. 


Stella Young: an amazing lady

I sip my coffee while scanning the paper in hope of a little interesting reading.  There is a lot of response on the national budget handed down on Thursday.  I read a good proportion of them but the story which captures my attention is on page 113 from Stella Young, an outspoken disability activist. Stella is also a comedian and editor of the ABC's Ramp Up website. Today her news story begins with comments on the federal government requiring people on a disability pension under the age of 35 to either work for the dole or assist them to acquire employment.  Sounds good, but the reality is it's full of pitfalls.  Stella tells the story of a young student in a wheelchair who she sees often on her commute to work, they nod at each other and she sees his books on his tray are business type textbooks.  This continues until one day she sees him no more.  She imagines he has found a suitable job in his chosen career path and these thoughts warm her.  It is only her imagination, she later sees him selling copies of a disability magazine in the city.  They no longer nod to each other, her dream for him is shattered.  She sees him regularly and believes discrimination has prevented him from attaining his dream.  Stella was born with Osteogenesis imperfect (brittle bone disease).  She mobilises in a motorised wheelchair and has many experiences of discrimination.  I relate to her story.  I would love Mel to have a job.  We have tried employment and volunteer work but her ability to keep on task and work efficiently is limited.  Stella's story is a nudge for me to keep seeking attainable work, whether paid or voluntary for Mel.