Annie in wonderland

### The Power of Lived Experience: Bridging the Gaps in Disability Care In my recent video [insert link to the video], I touched on the importance of lived experience and the need for diverse voices in conversations about disability. But beyond that, there's a pressing need to address the realities of government care programs like the NDIS, the perspectives of providers, and how we can all work together to ensure that person-centered care truly supports not just the individual but their entire support network. **Understanding NDIS Cutbacks: A Reality Check** With recent cutbacks to the NDIS, it's more important than ever to be realistic about what to expect from a government-funded care program. The NDIS is designed to bridge the gap between the high costs of living with a disability and what individuals can afford, but it’s not a cure-all. It’s a valuable resource, but it’s one piece of a larger puzzle. As participants and families, we need to manage expectations and understan...

Hey everyone, I may or may not have mentioned this before, but I recently went away for a weekend, and it sparked a new goal in me. I'm now seriously thinking about getting a unit down the coast—maybe in an older building since I live in a regional area. But there's a lot I still need to figure out. First, do I have enough to buy a place? And if so, where exactly do I want to buy? Would I rent it out or keep it as a weekend getaway? I'm leaning toward a unit in a beachfront complex, though it would likely be an older build. There are a few things that are must-haves for me, like a dedicated parking space, a clean pool (and a spa would be nice), a full kitchen, and a bathroom with a proper bath. One quirky preference I have is not having to walk through the lobby with groceries all the time, so a separate entrance for residents would be ideal. However, I do like the idea of having a front desk and housekeeping services available. But how much would that cost? How would I fur...

 Here's an updated version of your post, incorporating your preferences: --- **Weekend Reflection and Moving Forward** As I write this first draft, it's my first night back from a weekend away. I did fall into some old habits, such as blaming others, but I recognize that and can work on those issues. It's time for me to reassess my strengths and focus on what I can change in my life. One thing I can change is spending more time offline. Another is cutting back on buying unnecessary clothing. I've also realized that my NDIS funding might be at risk, so I need to be more mindful of my actions in the house. With NDIS reassessments being a topic we're all discussing, I need to ensure that I’m prepared, as I don't want to risk having to move or find a rental on my own. I'm also trying to figure out what's going on with my YouTube channel. My subscriber count recently dropped from 109 to 94, which was a bit disheartening. However, I need to focus on my long-te...

https://youtu.be/SRJJHfzbDfE?si=V1BcFy2YD__4yhMZ In my latest vlog, I share the excitement of a weekend getaway—something that every girl needs once in a while! This wasn’t just a day trip; it was a full-on girls' retreat, filled with fun, relaxation, and adventure. What made this trip even more special was that we spent our own money, proving that you don’t need NDIS funding to treat yourself to a refreshing break from the usual routine. The getaway was a perfect reminder that, sometimes, all you need is to pack a bag, grab a friend, and set off on an adventure. We explored new places, enjoyed great food, and indulged in some much-needed downtime, all while bonding and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it’s discovering hidden gems or simply relaxing in a new environment, the trip was a beautiful blend of travel and friendship. This weekend escape was a testament to the power of spontaneity and independence. Living with a disability doesn't mean every experie...

 Going on a day trip with a group through the NDIS is an exciting opportunity to explore new places and connect with others. However, it's crucial to remember that being part of a group also comes with responsibilities, especially when it comes to respecting the people around you. Whether you're new to NDIS group outings or a seasoned participant, here are some key guidelines to ensure everyone has an enjoyable and respectful experience. 1. Turn Up on Time Punctuality is a simple yet essential way to show respect for others. Arriving on time not only shows that you value the time of your support workers and fellow participants but also helps ensure the day runs smoothly. Late arrivals can cause delays, affecting the entire group and possibly shortening the time you have to enjoy the planned activities. 2. Personal Hygiene Matters Before heading out, make sure you've taken care of your personal hygiene. Having a shower and wearing clean clothes are basic courtesies that make...

Hello, everyone! I wanted to take a moment to update you on what’s been happening in my life lately. A lot has been going on, and I’ve been reflecting on some of the changes, challenges, and growth I’ve experienced. ### Embracing Change and Finding Stability Over the past few months, I’ve been navigating significant changes in my routine and support structure. One of the biggest adjustments has been finding stability in my day-to-day life. As many of you know, living in a Supported Independent Living (SIL) home comes with its own set of challenges. I’ve learned that having a stable roster and a well-mapped-out day, week, and month is crucial for my sense of safety and well-being. When everything is predictable, it’s easier to relax and focus on personal growth. After all, if I don’t feel safe at home, where will I ever feel truly safe? ### Improving Health and Setting Boundaries I’m happy to report that my health has been getting better. It’s been a long journey, but I’m seeing positiv...

 Hi everyone, I've been reflecting a lot on the recent NDIS changes. As I went through the list, I found myself torn between thinking some cuts seem reasonable and questioning why certain things are being removed. On one hand, I see the need to reduce waste within the NDIA system, but on the other hand, some of these cuts are concerning. For those who are higher-functioning, caregivers legally responsible for someone with a disability, or providers, it's important to give feedback. We need to refocus on what is reasonable and necessary. Our taxes aren't unlimited, and it makes sense to remove items that lack scientific evidence of effectiveness. However, person-centered care should remain a priority. Some services, like certain health treatments, could be funded by the health department. If you want something like getting your nails done, that should be paid for out of pocket—just like everyone else. There are various ways to earn money, whether through a job, running a bus...

 Thought: if sound can make people sick, or mentally unwell. As I live next door to a person who had a mental illness triggered by sound and not in the "it's mildly upsetting to me" but a really severe case of a sweet person with an intellectual disability to a person with behaviors of concern. Could it make you well? I haven’t really looked any further, but I think this is what a lot of new-age and alternative healers are looking at with their meditations. Research shows that certain sounds can indeed have a negative impact on health. For example, low-frequency noise and infrasound have been linked to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. This phenomenon, known as the "nocebo effect," is when negative expectations of harmless sounds cause adverse symptoms. Additionally, some sounds can make people very sick, such as in the case of Havana Syndrome, where the physical vibrations of sound caused severe health issues in individuals. But when they say ...

  Australia's Overlooked Role in Nuclear History I was recently watching a Netflix documentary on the Manhattan Project, and it got me thinking. As an Australian, it's striking how often our own contributions to nuclear history and global conflicts are overlooked. While the documentary focused on the U.S. efforts, it made me wonder if producers at Netflix or other U.S.-based production companies are even aware of Australia's role in World War II, the Cuban Missile Crisis, and our significant involvement in nuclear testing. Australia played a crucial role in World War II, not just on the front lines but also as a testing ground for nuclear technologies. The British conducted nuclear tests on Australian soil, with sites like Maralinga becoming infamous. Yet, these projects are seldom mentioned in mainstream media. Instead, the narrative is dominated by stories from the U.S. and Europe. One often overlooked fact is that there were more bombs dropped on Darwin than on Pearl Har...

This post is going to be a bit different. I’m not going to polish it with ChatGPT; instead, I'm using it to ensure I'm not breaching privacy or unintentionally being offensive. Here are the books I want to read, including some older ones, along with YouTubers who discuss these topics from different political perspectives. ### Books I Plan to Read: 1. **Freakonomics** by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner 2. **12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos** by Dr. Jordan B. Peterson 3. **The Gulag Archipelago** by Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn 4. **Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies** by Jared Diamond 5. **How the Girl Guides Won the War** by Janie Hampton 6. **Manufacturing Consent: The Political Economy of the Mass Media** by Edward S. Herman and Noam Chomsky 7. **Exodus: A Memoir** by Deborah Feldman 8. **The Trap** by David Icke (Read with a critical mind) 9. **Sweet Poison: Why Sugar Makes Us Fat** by David Gillespie 10. **Tracking the White Salamander: The Story o...