The Largest Minority

People with disability and chronic illness are the world’s largest minority, yet their stories are often left unheard. Not anymore. Presented by the Wellness Empowerment Movement, ‘The Largest Minority’ are given a voice and in return you gain a perspective. We need a paradigm shift, and we need your support – to dissemble ableist constructs and improve the quality of life for those with chronic illness and disability. All we need is for you to listen to the stories of those with chronic illness and disability featured here, and that awareness alone will create systemic change to support a minority group that has been ignored for far too long. It is time for a change. It starts here.

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The Largest Minority

Savannah's Story: VACTERL

May 16, 2021 • Wellness Empowerment Movement • Season 1 • Episode 3

Savannah, like host Anja, was born with VACTERL Association - that created malformations throughout the body, including vertebrae, anal, cardiac, tracheal oesophageal (air pipe/food pipe) and renal (kidney). When she was born, there was no way to get food or water into her body or out of it, requiring reconstructions. Savannah is going in for Open Heart Surgery TODAY (24/05/21 - USA), and we discuss this in the episode. Having had more surgeries and hospital admissions than one could count, Savannah shares her insights and experiences with us. From experiences in the health system to how she came to accept and share her medical condition with others, this is an episode you do not want to miss.

Content warning: This episode deals with medical themes and surgeries, and may be upsetting. If you find this triggering, please reach out for help. For support please contact a Helpline or in an emergency contact 000 (Australia) -
Lifeline: Call 13 11 14 or visit https://www.lifeline.org.au
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 or visit https://www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au

The Largest Minority appreciates any support we can get - please rate, review and subscribe to our podcast. It is time for the voices of this community to be heard - it starts with us and ends with you.

We want to hear your stories of chronic illness, disability or adversity. If you want to share your story please contact us - hello@wellnessempowermentmovement.com

If you have any thoughts, questions or want to keep up-to-date with what we are up to, please follow and DM us on instagram @wellnessempowermentmovement or Anja @anjachristoffersen

If you want to show Savannah your support, you can follow her journey at @savvyhottel on instagram.

WEM Website: www.wellnessempowermentmovement.com