Hi, I’m Amy, and I’m the Education, Outreach and Peer Program Coordinator at the MS Society SA & NT. I’m also one of the friendly voices on the MS Assist phoneline and the person behind many of our support emails. I’ve been part of the Society since August 2011, over thirteen years now, and what a ride it’s been.
Before joining the MS Society, I worked as a support worker in the community. I’ve always been passionate about working with people, especially those living with a disability. I knew I needed a role that continued to give me purpose, and when this opportunity came up, I didn’t look back.
My job is pretty diverse, I juggle four different areas that keep me on my toes. The first is education: I coordinate information sessions for clients on topics that really matter to them, like symptom management, diet, exercise, superannuation, and navigating life after a diagnosis. Then there’s outreach, which is all about connecting with people in regional South Australia and the Northern Territory. I coordinate and sometimes attend road trips (who doesn’t love a good road trip?) to support both our clients and the external providers in those communities.
The third area I focus on is peer support, which is incredibly valuable. Our peer groups are run by clients, for clients. My role is to be their trusted connection back to the MS Society, to offer support without taking over. And finally, there’s the MS Assist line and inbox, where I’m often the first person people speak to when they reach out. It’s a privilege to be that reassuring voice on the end of the phone.
Of course, every role comes with its challenges. For me, the hardest part is not being able to be everywhere at once. I’d love to visit every regional area more often and offer even more direct support, but we’re limited by resources, particularly funding. That’s why community support and donations are so important, they directly impact what we can deliver.
Despite the challenges, this work is endlessly rewarding. Meeting our clients, hearing their stories, and being part of their journey is a true honour. I’m constantly humbled by their resilience, and I find real joy in being someone they trust, whether I’m answering a question, facilitating a session, or just being there when they need someone to listen.
There are a few values I carry with me every day: passion, integrity, and compassion. Anyone who’s worked with me will tell you, I wear my passion on my sleeve. But I also take great pride in making sure every client interaction is grounded in honesty, care, and genuine understanding.
If you’re wondering how you can support the work we do, there are so many ways. Share our posts on social media. Buy a lottery ticket. Run a fundraiser. Or simply donate, every dollar truly counts and helps us keep showing up for the people who need us.
And if you’re someone who’s been newly diagnosed with MS, please hear this: be kind to yourself. This can be an overwhelming time. Ask the questions you need to ask. And reach out, we’re here to support you, every step of the way.