Let's get excited about an enlightening podcast series to help you feel connected and be informed. All about why SpineCare decided to do this series and what these series of  podcasts will talk about. And what it's like for a mother of a child who has spinal cord injury.

Guests:

Sam Frain - Chairperson for SpineCare Foundation

Gillian Moreland - Mother of a child who has spinal cord injury



Image: by SpineCare Foundation

Let's get excited about an enlightening podcast series to help you feel connected and be informed. All about why SpineCare decided to do this series and what these series of  podcasts will talk about. And what it's like for a mother of a child who has spinal cord injury.
Guests:
Sam Frain - Chairperson for SpineCare Foundation
Gillian Moreland - Mother of a child who has spinal cord injury
 
Image: by SpineCare Foundation

SpineCare's 40 Voices Welcome and Overview

Understanding the injury. And ways that parents can help their children understand what happened to them and what can be expected growing up with Spinal Cord Injury.

Guests :

Dr. Mary Clare Waugh - A Child Specialist in Rehabilitation at Westmead Hospital Sydney

Maya Dove - She is a youth case worker and also works as a model

Having had a spinal cord injury since birth, Maya is passionate about spreading disability awareness. From highlighting her love for fashion, to the performing arts, travel, social justice issues and — most importantly — her dog, she hopes to break down assumptions surrounding her experience. 

Image:

Maya Dove - A youth case worker and model

Understanding the injury. And ways that parents can help their children understand what happened to them and what can be expected growing up with Spinal Cord Injury.
Guests :
Dr. Mary Clare Waugh - A Child Specialist in Rehabilitation at Westmead Hospital Sydney
Maya Dove - She is a youth case worker and also works as a model
Having had a spinal cord injury since birth, Maya is passionate about spreading disability awareness. From highlighting her love for fashion, to the performing arts, travel, social justice issues and — most importantly — her dog, she hopes to break down assumptions surrounding her experience. 
Image:
Maya Dove - A youth case worker and model

Growing up with Spinal Cord Injury

Join us for an engaging podcast where we delve into the latest advancements in spinal cord injury (SCI) research, with a special focus on children. In this episode, we are honoured to feature two esteemed experts: Professor Mary Galea, Professorial Fellow in the Department of Medicine at the University of Melbourne and Academic Director of the Australian Rehabilitation Research Centre at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, and Associate Professor Catherine Gorrie, head of the Neural Injury Research Unit in the Faculty of Science at the University of Technology.

They will share their groundbreaking work on innovative therapies and cutting-edge science. You'll gain valuable insights into preclinical studies, emerging treatments, discover practical steps you can take now, and deepen your understanding of the research process. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from leading authorities who are shaping the future of SCI care for the next generation

Meet our guests:

Professor Mary Galea

Professor Mary Galea, AM FAHMS, is Professorial Fellow in the Department of Medicine at the University of Melbourne, with Honorary appointments in the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Royal Melbourne Hospital and the Victorian Spinal Cord Service, Austin Health. She leads the Program in Restorative Neuroscience in the Graeme Clark Institute for Biomedical Engineering at the University of Melbourne. Prof. Galea’s current major project is an early phase adaptive trial of transcutaneous spinal cord neuromodulation to improve hand function following spinal cord injury.

Associate Professor Catherine Gorrie

Associate Professor Catherine Gorrie is the head of the Neural Injury Research Unit in the Faculty of Science at the University of Technology. Catherine has a strong research interest in neuroscience, in particular traumatic brain and spinal cord injury. She uses animal models to investigate damage and repair to the central nervous system in both infants and adults. Her fields of expertise are in Histology and Immunohoistochemistry. Currently A/Prof. Gorrie’s research focuses on endogenous neural progenitor cells, paediatric spinal cord injury, compression spinal cord injury and the manipulation of axons for acute and chronic spinal cord repair.



Image courtesy of SpineCare Foundation & Professor Catherine Gorrie - 

A splice of normal spinal cord tissue stained for astrocytes. 

Join us for an engaging podcast where we delve into the latest advancements in spinal cord injury (SCI) research, with a special focus on children. In this episode, we are honoured to feature two esteemed experts: Professor Mary Galea, Professorial Fellow in the Department of Medicine at the University of Melbourne and Academic Director of the Australian Rehabilitation Research Centre at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, and Associate Professor Catherine Gorrie, head of the Neural Injury Research Unit in the Faculty of Science at the University of Technology.
They will share their groundbreaking work on innovative therapies and cutting-edge science. You'll gain valuable insights into preclinical studies, emerging treatments, discover practical steps you can take now, and deepen your understanding of the research process. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from leading authorities who are shaping the future of SCI care for the next generation
Meet our guests:
Professor Mary Galea
Professor Mary Galea, AM FAHMS, is Professorial Fellow in the Department of Medicine at the University of Melbourne, with Honorary appointments in the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Royal Melbourne Hospital and the Victorian Spinal Cord Service, Austin Health. She leads the Program in Restorative Neuroscience in the Graeme Clark Institute for Biomedical Engineering at the University of Melbourne. Prof. Galea’s current major project is an early phase adaptive trial of transcutaneous spinal cord neuromodulation to improve hand function following spinal cord injury.
Associate Professor Catherine Gorrie
Associate Professor Catherine Gorrie is the head of the Neural Injury Research Unit in the Faculty of Science at the University of Technology. Catherine has a strong research interest in neuroscience, in particular traumatic brain and spinal cord injury. She uses animal models to investigate damage and repair to the central nervous system in both infants and adults. Her fields of expertise are in Histology and Immunohoistochemistry. Currently A/Prof. Gorrie’s research focuses on endogenous neural progenitor cells, paediatric spinal cord injury, compression spinal cord injury and the manipulation of axons for acute and chronic spinal cord repair.
 
Image courtesy of SpineCare Foundation &amp; Professor Catherine Gorrie - 
A splice of normal spinal cord tissue stained for astrocytes.

Clinical Trials and Research on Spinal Cord Injury

In this episode, brimming with expert advice and practical guidance on navigating school life, we are joined by two distinguished guests. First up is Hayley Slocombe, an elite para-athlete, University scholar pursuing a Bachelor of Education, and NSW Wheelchair Sports Experience Presenter. Having lived with a spinal cord injury since infancy, Hayley shares invaluable tips, strategies, and a positive mindset to enhance your school experience, from connecting with friends to fully enjoying your time at school.

Our second guest, David Deitz, is a highly regarded high school principal who is navigating his own return to the school environment after sustaining a spinal cord injury on the velodrome. David offers deep insights into the educational systems and processes designed to ensure full and meaningful inclusion for students with disabilities. Together, these experts provide a wealth of knowledge to help you achieve a rich and rewarding school experience.

Image courtesy of SpineCare Foundation and Hayley Slocombe-

Hayley during childhood 

In this episode, brimming with expert advice and practical guidance on navigating school life, we are joined by two distinguished guests. First up is Hayley Slocombe, an elite para-athlete, University scholar pursuing a Bachelor of Education, and NSW Wheelchair Sports Experience Presenter. Having lived with a spinal cord injury since infancy, Hayley shares invaluable tips, strategies, and a positive mindset to enhance your school experience, from connecting with friends to fully enjoying your time at school.
Our second guest, David Deitz, is a highly regarded high school principal who is navigating his own return to the school environment after sustaining a spinal cord injury on the velodrome. David offers deep insights into the educational systems and processes designed to ensure full and meaningful inclusion for students with disabilities. Together, these experts provide a wealth of knowledge to help you achieve a rich and rewarding school experience.
Image courtesy of SpineCare Foundation and Hayley Slocombe-
Hayley during childhood

School Life

Join us for an enlightening episode dedicated to neuromuscular scoliosis, a common challenge arising from childhood spinal cord injury and dysfunction (SCI/D). We’re excited to feature three exceptional guests: athlete and scholar Victoria Simpson, along with her mother Deanne, who will share their personal journey from monitoring Victoria’s spine throughout her growth to selecting the best surgical option during her teenage years. They’ll discuss everything from pre-operative preparations to recovery. Additionally, we’ll hear from esteemed orthopedic surgeon Dr. Angus Gray, who will provide valuable insights into what neuromuscular scoliosis is, the key signs to watch for, management options, and when intervention is necessary. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of this important topic!

Meet our guests:

Victoria Simpson

Victoria is a 19-year-old athlete and scholar who sustained a spinal cord injury in a car accident when she was just three. She has since thrived in various pursuits, representing Australia at the International Wheelchair Basketball World Championships in 2023 and earning the title of Parkes Champion Sportsperson of the Year in 2022. In addition to her athletic achievements, Victoria has participated in musicals, appeared on television, and showcased her musical talents on both guitar and violin.

An avid horseback rider and water skier, she has also competed in school athletics, swimming, and talent shows. Currently, Victoria plays elite wheelchair basketball and rugby league while completing her TAFE degree in School Based Education Support, with the goal of assisting children in schools as a Special Learning Support Officer (SLSO). Victoria is mentor to others through her wheelchair basketball coaching, and actively contributes to her family business. With her exceptional capabilities and determination, Victoria aspires to compete in the Paralympics.

Angus Gray

Dr. Gray is a dedicated surgeon specialising in spinal deformity and paediatric orthopaedic surgery. With a strong passion for medical communication and surgical education, he serves as an examiner and Instructor in Professional Skills for the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons. Additionally, Dr. Gray is a facilitator at the Pam MacLean Centre for Cancer Communications.

He holds a Master’s degree in Surgical Education and has extensive experience in medical leadership, having spent over a decade as the Head of Department at an Australian tertiary Children's Hospital. Dr. Gray’s commitment to advancing both surgical practice and education makes him a highly respected figure in his field.



Image: Victoria Simpson provided, from SpineCare Foundation

Join us for an enlightening episode dedicated to neuromuscular scoliosis, a common challenge arising from childhood spinal cord injury and dysfunction (SCI/D). We’re excited to feature three exceptional guests: athlete and scholar Victoria Simpson, along with her mother Deanne, who will share their personal journey from monitoring Victoria’s spine throughout her growth to selecting the best surgical option during her teenage years. They’ll discuss everything from pre-operative preparations to recovery. Additionally, we’ll hear from esteemed orthopedic surgeon Dr. Angus Gray, who will provide valuable insights into what neuromuscular scoliosis is, the key signs to watch for, management options, and when intervention is necessary. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of this important topic!
Meet our guests:
Victoria Simpson
Victoria is a 19-year-old athlete and scholar who sustained a spinal cord injury in a car accident when she was just three. She has since thrived in various pursuits, representing Australia at the International Wheelchair Basketball World Championships in 2023 and earning the title of Parkes Champion Sportsperson of the Year in 2022. In addition to her athletic achievements, Victoria has participated in musicals, appeared on television, and showcased her musical talents on both guitar and violin.
An avid horseback rider and water skier, she has also competed in school athletics, swimming, and talent shows. Currently, Victoria plays elite wheelchair basketball and rugby league while completing her TAFE degree in School Based Education Support, with the goal of assisting children in schools as a Special Learning Support Officer (SLSO). Victoria is mentor to others through her wheelchair basketball coaching, and actively contributes to her family business. With her exceptional capabilities and determination, Victoria aspires to compete in the Paralympics.
Angus Gray
Dr. Gray is a dedicated surgeon specialising in spinal deformity and paediatric orthopaedic surgery. With a strong passion for medical communication and surgical education, he serves as an examiner and Instructor in Professional Skills for the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons. Additionally, Dr. Gray is a facilitator at the Pam MacLean Centre for Cancer Communications.
He holds a Master’s degree in Surgical Education and has extensive experience in medical leadership, having spent over a decade as the Head of Department at an Australian tertiary Children's Hospital. Dr. Gray’s commitment to advancing both surgical practice and education makes him a highly respected figure in his field.
 
Image: Victoria Simpson provided, from SpineCare Foundation

Episode 5 Got your back - Scoliosis and considerations for management

Join us for an insightful episode dedicated to equipment and home modifications! We’re thrilled to welcome two expert guests. First, specialist occupational therapist Toni Blanche will share key insights on selecting the right equipment and planning home modifications for both immediate needs and future adaptability. Then, young adult Jess Pellow will recount her journey, illustrating how assistive technology and home adaptations supported her during her formative years and continue now to aid her independent living. You  ’ll be exposed to a variety of market options and innovative custom solutions, along with strategies for collaborating effectively with your allied health team and funding sources to achieve the best outcomes. Don't miss this opportunity to learn and empower yourself!

Meet our Guests: 

Jess Pellow

Jess is a CX Consultant and Director, as well as a mentor for the Wheelchair Basketball Academy. She has also served as a Peer & Social Supports Coordinator at SCIA and Presenter for Wheelchair Sports NSW. Jess’s insights are shaped by her life experiences following a tragic motor vehicle accident at the age of 7, which claimed her mother’s life and left both her and her younger sister with spinal cord injuries. In honour of her mother, Jess co-founded the Ree Foundation, an organisation dedicated to enriching and enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities. Her personal journey has deeply influenced her commitment to supporting others facing similar challenges.

Toni Blanch

Toni is a highly experienced specialist occupational therapist with almost 30 years in children’s spinal cord injury and rehabilitation. She annually delivers lectures and tutorials in the Occupational Therapy program at Sydney University, where she introduces wheelchairs and seating in an engaging way. Her goal is to inspire young therapists to explore assistive technology that enhances independence and enriches the quality of life for both users and caregivers.



Image:  Jess Pellow provided by SpineCare Foundation

Join us for an insightful episode dedicated to equipment and home modifications! We’re thrilled to welcome two expert guests. First, specialist occupational therapist Toni Blanche will share key insights on selecting the right equipment and planning home modifications for both immediate needs and future adaptability. Then, young adult Jess Pellow will recount her journey, illustrating how assistive technology and home adaptations supported her during her formative years and continue now to aid her independent living. You  ’ll be exposed to a variety of market options and innovative custom solutions, along with strategies for collaborating effectively with your allied health team and funding sources to achieve the best outcomes. Don't miss this opportunity to learn and empower yourself!
Meet our Guests: 
Jess Pellow
Jess is a CX Consultant and Director, as well as a mentor for the Wheelchair Basketball Academy. She has also served as a Peer &amp; Social Supports Coordinator at SCIA and Presenter for Wheelchair Sports NSW. Jess’s insights are shaped by her life experiences following a tragic motor vehicle accident at the age of 7, which claimed her mother’s life and left both her and her younger sister with spinal cord injuries. In honour of her mother, Jess co-founded the Ree Foundation, an organisation dedicated to enriching and enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities. Her personal journey has deeply influenced her commitment to supporting others facing similar challenges.
Toni Blanch
Toni is a highly experienced specialist occupational therapist with almost 30 years in children’s spinal cord injury and rehabilitation. She annually delivers lectures and tutorials in the Occupational Therapy program at Sydney University, where she introduces wheelchairs and seating in an engaging way. Her goal is to inspire young therapists to explore assistive technology that enhances independence and enriches the quality of life for both users and caregivers.
 
Image:  Jess Pellow provided by SpineCare Foundation

Episode 6  Assistive Technology and Home modifications-the set up right for you

Expand your horizons and ignite your passion for meaningful education and vocation in this insightful episode featuring two seasoned experts.

First, hear from Skye Palethorpe, a Vocational Consultant and Occupational Therapist, as she shares valuable mindsets and strategies for exploring work and study options beyond school. Skye discusses the guiding principles of the In-VOC program at Royal Ryde Rehab, highlighting the research-backed importance of meaningful vocation for individuals with spinal cord injury, and the benefits of an early return to work and study following an initial diagnosis.

Next, we’ll welcome Greg Moran, an accomplished, multi-award-winning Writer, Director, Producer, and Comedian. Greg will take us through his journey of educational and vocational milestones, providing insights on pursuing passions, navigating tertiary education, and applying creative strategies to engage fully in study and meaningful work.

Tune in for an inspiring discussion that will motivate you to discover purpose in your career and education!

Meet our Guests:

Skye Palethorpe

Skye Palethorpe is a dedicated Vocational Consultant and Occupational Therapist with the In-VOC service at Royal Ryde Rehabilitation in Sydney. With decades of experience in neurorehabilitation, Skye specialises in supporting individuals with spinal cord injury and traumatic brain injury. Her expertise lies in helping clients discover meaningful work and study opportunities, as well as facilitating their return to previous vocations after injuries. Skye is passionate about empowering individuals to achieve their goals and find purpose in their careers, drawing on her extensive knowledge and compassionate approach to rehabilitation.

Greg Moran

Greg Moran is a multi-award-winning Writer, Director, Producer & Comedian based on Gadigal land (Sydney) in Australia.

Greg broke his neck playing rugby in 1983 at the age of 15 and became a quadriplegic. After completing an arts degree at Sydney University Greg made his first short film in 1998. Since then Greg has written, directed & produced 5 short films and has produced 3 others.

From 2010 - 2013 Greg helped develop and produce 130 episodes of the children’s television game show Spit It Out with Channel 7 & Tumble TV. Greg has worked with several production companies developing film and Television projects including The Full Box, and Northern Pictures.

Greg founded the production company Left Field Productions and currently works as a freelance writer, director & producer.

Website: www.gregmoran.com.au

Showcast: https://app.showcast.com.au/profile/67xbw3TZ

Linkedin: (3) Greg Moran | LinkedIn

IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm13926628/



Image by Greg Moran provided for by SpineCare Foundation

Expand your horizons and ignite your passion for meaningful education and vocation in this insightful episode featuring two seasoned experts.
First, hear from Skye Palethorpe, a Vocational Consultant and Occupational Therapist, as she shares valuable mindsets and strategies for exploring work and study options beyond school. Skye discusses the guiding principles of the In-VOC program at Royal Ryde Rehab, highlighting the research-backed importance of meaningful vocation for individuals with spinal cord injury, and the benefits of an early return to work and study following an initial diagnosis.
Next, we’ll welcome Greg Moran, an accomplished, multi-award-winning Writer, Director, Producer, and Comedian. Greg will take us through his journey of educational and vocational milestones, providing insights on pursuing passions, navigating tertiary education, and applying creative strategies to engage fully in study and meaningful work.
Tune in for an inspiring discussion that will motivate you to discover purpose in your career and education!
Meet our Guests:
Skye Palethorpe
Skye Palethorpe is a dedicated Vocational Consultant and Occupational Therapist with the In-VOC service at Royal Ryde Rehabilitation in Sydney. With decades of experience in neurorehabilitation, Skye specialises in supporting individuals with spinal cord injury and traumatic brain injury. Her expertise lies in helping clients discover meaningful work and study opportunities, as well as facilitating their return to previous vocations after injuries. Skye is passionate about empowering individuals to achieve their goals and find purpose in their careers, drawing on her extensive knowledge and compassionate approach to rehabilitation.
Greg Moran
Greg Moran is a multi-award-winning Writer, Director, Producer &amp; Comedian based on Gadigal land (Sydney) in Australia.
Greg broke his neck playing rugby in 1983 at the age of 15 and became a quadriplegic. After completing an arts degree at Sydney University Greg made his first short film in 1998. Since then Greg has written, directed &amp; produced 5 short films and has produced 3 others.
From 2010 - 2013 Greg helped develop and produce 130 episodes of the children’s television game show Spit It Out with Channel 7 &amp; Tumble TV. Greg has worked with several production companies developing film and Television projects including The Full Box, and Northern Pictures.
Greg founded the production company Left Field Productions and currently works as a freelance writer, director &amp; producer.
Website: <a href="http://www.gregmoran.com.au/">www.gregmoran.com.au</a>
Showcast: <a href="https://app.showcast.com.au/profile/67xbw3TZ">https://app.showcast.com.au/profile/67xbw3TZ</a>
Linkedin: (3) Greg Moran | LinkedIn
IMDB: <a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm13926628/">https://www.imdb.com/name/nm13926628/</a>
 
Image by Greg Moran provided for by SpineCare Foundation

Episode 7  Paid work and Tertiary Education

Meet our guests:

Ashlee Morton is a mum to 2 children as well as being a full time wheelchair user. She is passionate about exploring the world and making it easier for others with a disability to do so as well.

Through her work as General Manager at Accessible Accommodation she aims to make the travel sector a more accessible and inclusive place. In her spare time Ashlee plays Para Ice Hockey for the Melbourne Walers and rides a mountain bike.

Dan Slocombe is a proud dad to two daughters, the youngest Hayley who acquired her spinal cord injury as a infant and is now a world-ranked wheelchair tennis player and university scholar. Dan is also a Water Treatment Manager and has an adventurous spirit, enjoying many types of travel over the years with his family.  



Image by:  Ashlee Morton provided for by SpineCare Foundation

SpineCare Foundation recommends that if you are planning to travel by air consult your health care team ahead of time to discuss your unique circumstances.

Meet our guests:
Ashlee Morton is a mum to 2 children as well as being a full time wheelchair user. She is passionate about exploring the world and making it easier for others with a disability to do so as well.
Through her work as General Manager at Accessible Accommodation she aims to make the travel sector a more accessible and inclusive place. In her spare time Ashlee plays Para Ice Hockey for the Melbourne Walers and rides a mountain bike.
Dan Slocombe is a proud dad to two daughters, the youngest Hayley who acquired her spinal cord injury as a infant and is now a world-ranked wheelchair tennis player and university scholar. Dan is also a Water Treatment Manager and has an adventurous spirit, enjoying many types of travel over the years with his family.  
 
Image by:  Ashlee Morton provided for by SpineCare Foundation
SpineCare Foundation recommends that if you are planning to travel by air consult your health care team ahead of time to discuss your unique circumstances.

Episode 8 Family Get-aways

In this episode, we explore the vital topic of pressure injuries, commonly known as skin wounds or pressure ulcers. Joining us are two expert guests: Lis Hunter, a clinical nurse specialist with decades of experience in adult and paediatric spinal cord injury, and Kirsty Kinch, a senior occupational therapist with specialist skills in complex seating and wheeled mobility. Together, they provide an in-depth look at what constitutes a skin wound, detailing the various stages of pressure injuries, common causes in children and adolescents and essential daily practices for preventing and detecting early any signs of skin damage.

Join us for an informative discussion that empowers families with knowledge and tools to protect their children’s skin health and well-being while supporting them to ultimately take ownership of their care.



Kirsty Kinch 

Kirsty is a highly experienced Senior Occupational Therapist with expertise in paediatric and adult spinal cord injury, complex physical disability and early intervention. She has a particular passion for, and proficiency in, complex assistive technology prescription, pressure injury management and manual handling. Currently, Kirsty is a key member of the NSW Paediatric Spinal Outreach Service, a state-wide initiative funded by the Sydney Children's Hospital Network and hosted by Northcott. 



Elisabeth Hunter

Lis is a dedicated Clinical Nurse Specialist with extensive experience in rehabilitation nursing, primarily focused on adult and paediatric spinal cord injury care. Lis has held the position of Clinical Nurse Educator at dedicated spinal accommodation facilities and honed her rehabilitation skills to a specialist level at a renowned spinal rehabilitation centre in Sydney. Lis is also a valued member of the multidisciplinary NSW Paediatric Spinal Outreach Service. 

Harrison Crisp 

Harrison is an accomplished scholar in Engineering and Computer Sciences at one of the world’s top 20 universities (2025 QS World Rankings), with a strong ambition to make his mark in the rapidly evolving field of quantum computing. Demonstrating outstanding academic excellence, Harrison was named Dux of his school in 2022—a remarkable honour that underscores his resilience and commitment, particularly as some study was completed from an intensive care bed and rehabilitation facility, following a life-altering mountain bike accident when in year 9 that caused a complete quadriplegia.Harrison Crisp - To Uni and Beyond | Australian Sports Foundation (asf.org.au)

Image by: Shutterstock provided for by SpineCare Foundation

In this episode, we explore the vital topic of pressure injuries, commonly known as skin wounds or pressure ulcers. Joining us are two expert guests: Lis Hunter, a clinical nurse specialist with decades of experience in adult and paediatric spinal cord injury, and Kirsty Kinch, a senior occupational therapist with specialist skills in complex seating and wheeled mobility. Together, they provide an in-depth look at what constitutes a skin wound, detailing the various stages of pressure injuries, common causes in children and adolescents and essential daily practices for preventing and detecting early any signs of skin damage.
Join us for an informative discussion that empowers families with knowledge and tools to protect their children’s skin health and well-being while supporting them to ultimately take ownership of their care.
 
Kirsty Kinch 
Kirsty is a highly experienced Senior Occupational Therapist with expertise in paediatric and adult spinal cord injury, complex physical disability and early intervention. She has a particular passion for, and proficiency in, complex assistive technology prescription, pressure injury management and manual handling. Currently, Kirsty is a key member of the NSW Paediatric Spinal Outreach Service, a state-wide initiative funded by the Sydney Children's Hospital Network and hosted by Northcott. 
 
Elisabeth Hunter
Lis is a dedicated Clinical Nurse Specialist with extensive experience in rehabilitation nursing, primarily focused on adult and paediatric spinal cord injury care. Lis has held the position of Clinical Nurse Educator at dedicated spinal accommodation facilities and honed her rehabilitation skills to a specialist level at a renowned spinal rehabilitation centre in Sydney. Lis is also a valued member of the multidisciplinary NSW Paediatric Spinal Outreach Service. 
Harrison Crisp 
Harrison is an accomplished scholar in Engineering and Computer Sciences at one of the world’s top 20 universities (2025 QS World Rankings), with a strong ambition to make his mark in the rapidly evolving field of quantum computing. Demonstrating outstanding academic excellence, Harrison was named Dux of his school in 2022—a remarkable honour that underscores his resilience and commitment, particularly as some study was completed from an intensive care bed and rehabilitation facility, following a life-altering mountain bike accident when in year 9 that caused a complete quadriplegia. <a href="https://asf.org.au/projects/harrison-crisp---to-uni-and-beyond">Harrison Crisp - To Uni and Beyond | Australian Sports Foundation (asf.org.au)</a> 
Image by: Shutterstock provided for by SpineCare Foundation

Episode 9 - Love your Skin - preventing and managing wounds

Join us for an eye-opening episode as we explore the vital yet less visible topic of bowel and bladder health in children with spinal cord injury. We kick off the conversation with Jodie Thompson, a seasoned clinical nurse consultant with decades of experience in paediatric spinal cord injury care. Jodie shares her expert insights into how spinal cord injuries can impact these critical bodily functions and provides practical strategies for establishing healthy routines early on. She discusses the potential health risks associated with neglecting these areas and offers empowering tips to help children gain independence in managing their personal care.

Next, we hear from Clare, an entrepreneur and devoted mother of three, whose journey includes navigating family life with a child with a spinal cord injury caused by a tumour diagnosed in utero. Clare shares practical advice drawn from supporting her son's bladder and bowel health from infancy through to teenage years, while highlighting the significance of community support and the power of connecting with others facing similar challenges. Tune in to discover how addressing these foundational aspects of health can greatly  enhance the well-being and quality of life of children with spinal cord injury.

Meet our guests:

Jodie Thompson

With over 32 years of nursing experience, Jodie has dedicated much of her career to specialising in the care of children with acquired brain and spinal cord injuries at a leading tertiary children’s hospital. Her extensive background also encompasses aged care, adult rehabilitation and broader paediatric practice. 

In the recent years, Jodie founded Kids Collaborative, a private nursing service that provides Paediatric Continence Assessments and Independent Nursing Assessments for children and adults with complex needs. 

Jodie is an active member of the Agency for Clinical Innovation’s Transition Executive, serves as chair of the Nurse Continence Specialists in Private Practice Interest Group and is engaged with several professional organisations, including Spinal Cord Injuries Australia and the Spinal Injury Nurses Association. A passionate advocate for innovation in healthcare, Jodie frequently attends and presents at conferences and workshops, sharing her vision for a collaborative future in healthcare and the essential role of building strong networks among clinicians to support children and families.

Clare Conroy 

Clare holds extensive experience in Stakeholder Management, Community Engagement, Disability Advocacy and Policy. She is a passionate advocate for disability rights and community engagement, currently serving as the Stakeholder and Policy Manager at a leading health-tech platform. She is also Trustee and advocate for the Evander Conroy Foundation, an organisation focused on promoting awareness of paediatric spinal cord injury and supporting optimal recovery. 

Previously, Clare was the Chief Experience Officer at loop+, a health management system designed for wheelchair users, has held pivotal roles in community engagement and partnerships at an innovative disability tech company, as well as online marketing and content production for high profile international companies. Clare is also the founder of an online lifestyle directory for women that operated across multiple cities. 



Image by: Shutterstock provided for by SpineCare Foundation.

Join us for an eye-opening episode as we explore the vital yet less visible topic of bowel and bladder health in children with spinal cord injury. We kick off the conversation with Jodie Thompson, a seasoned clinical nurse consultant with decades of experience in paediatric spinal cord injury care. Jodie shares her expert insights into how spinal cord injuries can impact these critical bodily functions and provides practical strategies for establishing healthy routines early on. She discusses the potential health risks associated with neglecting these areas and offers empowering tips to help children gain independence in managing their personal care.
Next, we hear from Clare, an entrepreneur and devoted mother of three, whose journey includes navigating family life with a child with a spinal cord injury caused by a tumour diagnosed in utero. Clare shares practical advice drawn from supporting her son's bladder and bowel health from infancy through to teenage years, while highlighting the significance of community support and the power of connecting with others facing similar challenges. Tune in to discover how addressing these foundational aspects of health can greatly  enhance the well-being and quality of life of children with spinal cord injury.
Meet our guests:
Jodie Thompson
 With over 32 years of nursing experience, Jodie has dedicated much of her career to specialising in the care of children with acquired brain and spinal cord injuries at a leading tertiary children’s hospital. Her extensive background also encompasses aged care, adult rehabilitation and broader paediatric practice. 
In the recent years, Jodie founded Kids Collaborative, a private nursing service that provides Paediatric Continence Assessments and Independent Nursing Assessments for children and adults with complex needs. 
Jodie is an active member of the Agency for Clinical Innovation’s Transition Executive, serves as chair of the Nurse Continence Specialists in Private Practice Interest Group and is engaged with several professional organisations, including Spinal Cord Injuries Australia and the Spinal Injury Nurses Association. A passionate advocate for innovation in healthcare, Jodie frequently attends and presents at conferences and workshops, sharing her vision for a collaborative future in healthcare and the essential role of building strong networks among clinicians to support children and families.
Clare Conroy 
Clare holds extensive experience in Stakeholder Management, Community Engagement, Disability Advocacy and Policy. She is a passionate advocate for disability rights and community engagement, currently serving as the Stakeholder and Policy Manager at a leading health-tech platform. She is also Trustee and advocate for the Evander Conroy Foundation, an organisation focused on promoting awareness of paediatric spinal cord injury and supporting optimal recovery. 
Previously, Clare was the Chief Experience Officer at loop+, a health management system designed for wheelchair users, has held pivotal roles in community engagement and partnerships at an innovative disability tech company, as well as online marketing and content production for high profile international companies. Clare is also the founder of an online lifestyle directory for women that operated across multiple cities. 
 
Image by: Shutterstock provided for by SpineCare Foundation.

Episode 10  Bladder and Bowel Health

SpineCare's 40 Voices for 40 Years Podcast

To observe World Spinal Cord Injury Day on 5 September 2024, Radio 2SER FM and the SpineCare Foundation launched SpineCare's 40 Voices for 40 Years podcast series.

The podcast series is designed as a resource to inform, empower and enlighten families who have found themselves impacted by childhood acquired spinal cord injury or dysfunction. The launch is a way of celebrating the event through 40 voices from the community, insights from young people who have grown up with their spinal cord injury, their parents and caregivers, as well as academics and clinicians working in the field. Along with personal stories there will be tips, shared experiences on school-life, childhood rehabilitation, bowel and bladder management, going on family holidays, and the latest research and innovations on living with spinal cord injury.

SpineCare's 40 Voice for 40 years is created in the studios of Radio 2SER FM in partnership with SpineCare Foundation.

SpineCare's 40 Voices for 40 Years Podcast
To observe World Spinal Cord Injury Day on 5 September 2024, Radio 2SER FM and the SpineCare Foundation launched SpineCare's 40 Voices for 40 Years podcast series.
The podcast series is designed as a resource to inform, empower and enlighten families who have found themselves impacted by childhood acquired spinal cord injury or dysfunction. The launch is a way of celebrating the event through 40 voices from the community, insights from young people who have grown up with their spinal cord injury, their parents and caregivers, as well as academics and clinicians working in the field. Along with personal stories there will be tips, shared experiences on school-life, childhood rehabilitation, bowel and bladder management, going on family holidays, and the latest research and innovations on living with spinal cord injury.
SpineCare's 40 Voice for 40 years is created in the studios of Radio 2SER FM in partnership with SpineCare Foundation.

2SER SpineCare's 40 Voices for 40 Years Podcast

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