Amber’s journey from patient to planner is one of Australia’s most uplifting disability stories this year.

Diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, she went from struggling with mobility to becoming a National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) planner,

thanks to the support of the NDIS and her own determination source: NDIS.gov.au. click to read full story

💪 Amber’s Story: From Pain to Purpose

Amber, a 24-year-old from Western Australia, grew up constantly injured and sick, with her condition undiagnosed until age 14. Her joints dislocated easily, and she was immunocompromised, yet she was told to “tough it out.” It wasn’t until she began therapy at Perth Children’s Hospital that she learned about the NDIS.

“When I got a support worker, I was able to start doing things. It helped to build my capacity… It was life changing,” Amber said.

With her first NDIS plan, she received:

• A custom-fitted wheelchair
• A support worker
• Regular physiotherapy

These supports allowed her to attend university and eventually land a job helping others with disability.

She started working at a disability equipment centre, then applied for a role as a Participant Support Officer at the NDIA.

Her lived experience made her a natural fit, and she soon advanced to become a planner, helping others navigate the system.

“My lived experience is so helpful… You’re improving lives and making a difference.”

Amber’s story is a powerful reminder of what inclusive systems and support can achieve. She’s now a proud NDIA employee, using her journey to uplift others.