Navigating Disability

From Pain to Power: Skye Shannon on Losing a Leg, Gaining Purpose & Fighting for Inclusion

What does it mean to lose a part of yourself—physically and emotionally—and still rise to fight for others? In this raw and deeply human episode of Navigating Disability, we sit down with advocate, speaker, and changemaker Skye Shannon, whose journey from living with Spina Bifida to becoming an amputee will stay with you long after the episode ends.

Skye opens up about growing up in a small town where she didn’t feel different—until the world told her otherwise. From high school bullying to years of intense surgeries, Sky shares with brutal honesty how pain, humor, resilience, and community shaped her identity. She talks about the realities of the NDIS system, systemic failures in employment and access, and what true inclusion should look like.

Skye reminds us that people with disabilities are often the strongest problem-solvers in the room—and all they ask is a seat at the table.

🎧 Trigger Warning: This episode includes themes of medical trauma, amputation, mental health struggles, and brief mentions of suicidal ideation. If you’re in distress, please reach out to Lifeline at 13 11 14 (Australia).

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Reach out to Skye:

Diversicare Solutions

https://www.facebook.com/skye.shannon.94