Visible, valued and supported: celebrating diverse experiences, independence and
inclusion

Every disability journey is different.

For some, it's navigating life with limited mobility.

For others, it's living with reduced vision, chronic health conditions, autism, psychosocial disability, intellectual disability or challenges that may not be immediately visible to others.

Behind every disability is a person with their own strengths, goals, routines and aspirations. A person who wants to maintain their independence, stay connected with their community and continue doing the things that matter most to them.

For Dianne, who survived a stroke, that means getting around in her electric wheelchair, which she fondly refers to as her "Mercedes".

 

"It's made a huge difference"

After experiencing a stroke, Dianne lost much of her vision and her confidence when walking as her legs would give way without warning.

Today, things look very different.

"My journey in the beginning was bad, but now I'm a different person because of Windermere.”

"I've still got my independence and I still live at home on my own and go around in my “Mercedes”, which I love."

Her electric wheelchair has given her the confidence and freedom to continue participating in everyday life.

“That’s why Windermere suggested this for me. It gives me independence to go out in the community. Now I can go to the shops and just do what I want to do and go where I want to go. It's made a huge difference."

Using her NDIS to access this support has given Dianne the freedom to make choices, maintain independence and continue living life on her terms.

The right support at the right time

For many people, living well with disability is not about doing everything alone. It's about having the right support at the right time.

Hear from Dianne, in her own words.

 

For Dianne, navigating the NDIS was one of the biggest challenges. Support wasn't just about accessing services. It was about having someone to help her understand her options and identify supports that could help her live independently.

"It's only since Windermere came on board. Otherwise, I wouldn't be able to navigate any of this, especially the NDIS."

When Dianne first began her NDIS journey, she wasn't always making the most of her NDIS plan because she wasn't sure how they would benefit her day-to-day life.

Her Plan Manager Olga reflects on those early days working alongside Dianne’s Support Coordinator Maree, to help her understand the practical difference supports could make.

"With ongoing guidance and conversations, she began to see that these supports were there to help her live the life she wanted to live and maintain her independence."

Over time, Dianne began to explore the opportunities available through her plan, including the mobility equipment that has helped her remain active in her community.

"From the Dianne who first came to us five years ago to the person we see today, it's a complete transformation."

"She's made the most of the supports available to her and you can see how much she values the independence they've given her."

Dianne is grateful, not just for her supports but also for having someone who listens to her needs, takes the time to explain options and help identify opportunities.

"Windermere has been so wonderful. They are attentive, they listen to you and they help you a lot. They are the best out there, hands down."

A symbolic representation of our commitment to diverse needs

Dianne's experience is a reminder that disability is not one thing. Her stroke affected her vision, balance and confidence.

Despite the impacts of her disability, the right support enabled her to continue living independently and stay connected to her community.

For others, the support they need looks completely different. It may be help navigating education, developing social connections, accessing therapies or finding opportunities to participate in activities that bring them joy and confidence.

These diverse experiences are what inspired Windermere's disability icon, which recognises that disability cannot be represented by a single image, condition or story.

It's a symbol designed to represent the broad spectrum of disabilities and abilities, both seen and unseen.

The icon was created to help people feel represented, recognised and valued, while reflecting our commitment to accessibility, inclusion and belonging.

It serves as a reminder that disability cannot be defined by a single image or stereotype. Instead, it reflects the diversity of experiences, identities and support needs that exist within our community.

Looking for disability support?

For more than three decades, Windermere has supported people with disability across Victoria.

Whether that's remaining independent at home, gaining confidence in the community, navigating the NDIS, building new skills or connecting with local supports, the goal is always the same: helping people live the life they choose.

If you or someone you care about is navigating the NDIS and would like personalised support, we offer a range of services including Support Coordination and Plan Management. Our team takes the time to understand your goals and help you find the supports that work best for you.

 

Call 1300 946 337 or email NDIS@windermere.org.au. Learn more about our NDIS Services