Tell us about yourselves?
Maree: I am married to Phil, have three adult children and two beautiful granddaughters. Two of our children sustained significant brain injuries at birth. I am Family Liaison for Interactionz supporting other families who have a child with a disability. I am passionate about everyone leading a life that is meaningful to them and doing ordinary things.
Phil: I’m a self-employed builder, married with three children and two grandchildren.
Anne: I’m in part-time employment at a childcare centre. My niece who has an intellectual disability lives with me at present.
What did you hope to get from participating in the storytelling workshop?
Maree: New learning in ways to share our life and journey.
Phil: A better life for my son Anton
Anne: Aspects of Anton’s life brought together in one medium.
Why did you choose this particular story to tell?
Maree: Our story is the beginning of a really exciting journey that is just beginning and we want to continue to capture it in this form. Hopefully it will inspire other families to be brave and that that first huge step to give “it” – whatever “it” might happen to be for them – a go. Dreams can become reality.
Phil: Just thought it was appropriate
Anne: With Maree and Phil we have been working on Anton’s future so it was an opportunity to explore it this way.
How have you changed as a result of telling and making your story?
Maree: I want to tell more stories for family. I want to record voices. I remember my grandparents and parents faces but I miss the voices. I want our family to remember our voices as well as the visual.
Anne: Eager to do the next phase [of Anton’s plan]
How do you think this experience will impact your journey?
Maree: I want to do more, it stretches me to be more intentional about capturing my story, also the importance of telling my story. I have stories to tell, not necessarily share, and I intend making them in digital form.
Phil: This will certainly help Anton on his journey to a better life. This was about him, not me.
Anne: Will make the future for Anton more positive
