**Content Warning: This story mentions suicide, which some people may find distressing. For immediate crisis support, get help. If life is in immediate danger, call 000. For 24/7 crisis support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au/get-help.
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“I acquired my disability at the age of 14, essentially overnight. I had to learn how to do absolutely everything again and work out how to navigate a largely inaccessible world.
I have spent the years following my diagnosis grieving the life I had and the life I thought I would have. I have fallen into very dark times, where my disability and the reality of my diagnosis has become too much, and suicide seemed my best option.
My story can be seen as one of sadness and bad luck, but I share it in the hope that people will come to see how something so seemingly negative can turn into something positive, how you can survive what you thought you couldn't and to never give up hope.
I have been horse-mad since I was three and upon acquiring my disability, I had to learn how to ride again and retrain my horses without the use of leg aids.
I am incredibly lucky to have grown my team, which now includes three national-level competition horses. I am a dressage and show rider, competing at the highest level of able-bodied dressage at Equestrian Australia National level.
I have had the pleasure of competing all over Australia at multiple National Championships and Royal Shows and being consistently selected for state teams and squads since 2016. I have been a registered elite athlete with the University of South Australia since 2018.
My horses have given me purpose through the biggest challenge of my life. They saved me.”
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If this has raised any issues for you and you need someone to talk to, call:
Lifeline on 13 11 14
Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978
Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467
Beyond Blue on 1300 22 46 36
Headspace on 1800 650 890
QLife on 1800 184 527
