Joey finds joy in the disability community

Joey, 24, is a youth advocate for disability, chronic illness and mental health. Through their advocacy, Joey shares their challenges and joy as a person with disability.

They volunteer with both Headspace and Youth Disability Advocacy Network Western Australia. They’re also a youth worker for children in out of home care.

At 15, when Joey became ill with chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia, they felt alone. Their mum was always supportive, but the wider community often didn’t see their disability.

‘That left me isolated. Others not understanding would often invalidate my experience. It prevented me from getting support or from getting the medical attention that I needed.’

Joey then turned to social media. Seeing others share their stories of disability made them realise there were other people facing the same challenges.

This revelation sparked a drive to communicate online about their invisible disability with a community of likeminded people. Joey started an Instagram page and a podcast, establishing meaningful connections and great friends.

Joey’s advocacy also led to them becoming a youth ambassador for Headspace’s National Youth Reference Group.

For Joey, finding community and sharing experiences is extremely important.

‘In these groups, people can connect over shared challenges and experience disabled joy.’

‘Disabled joy is a real thing. We have lives, we have value, and we have connections and enjoyment. People with disability can attend events designed for disabled people and they can get joy and hope from that.’

For Joey, joy looks like access, authenticity and connection.

‘I use a walking stick sometimes, and at first, I was really nervous about using it. You’re very self-conscious and aware that now people can see that you’re disabled.’

But having the courage to use their walking stick inspired a friend to use theirs too. Together, Joey and their friend took their sticks for a day out. They made it fun, sharing jokes about being ‘Citizen Kane’.

‘Then it wasn’t such a big taboo thing, it was normal. It made it so much easier for me to socialise. It was a really awesome, wholesome moment for me.’

‘Being yourself and not hiding your disability but allowing yourself to show up fully. Taking strength in the disabled community. You’re not alone and you’re allowed to ask for help.’

Joey will continue down the path of advocating for a more accepting society.

You may also find Joey doing crochet, playing animal crossing, or going to the beach with their friends – when they are up to it. Sometimes with or without their walking stick.

You can follow Joey on Instagram @chronically.m.e