Navigating Disability
What if the conversation around disability focused on possibility instead of limitation?
Welcome to the Navigating Disability Podcast Show, hosted by Kate Read, a passionate advocate dedicated to changing the narrative around “normal” and “ability.”
Each week, Kate sits down with inspiring guests to explore lived experiences, expert insights, practical advice, and powerful stories from across the disability community. From advocacy and education to honest discussions about systems, supports, and real-life challenges, this podcast is about helping people feel informed, empowered, and connected.
Whether you’re living with disability, supporting a family member, working in the sector, or wanting to better understand the journey — this podcast is for you.
So get ready to be inspired, informed, and reminded that you are not navigating this journey alone.
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Navigating Disability
Fighting for Two: Navigating Cancer and Her Daughter’s Disability
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When life delivered two seismic blows, her daughter’s rare genetic diagnosis and her own cancer battle, Hayley Thiele didn’t crumble. She transformed.
In this episode, Hayley shares her raw and remarkable story of parenting her daughter Pippa, who lives with Wiedemann-Steiner syndrome, while navigating her own cervical cancer diagnosis. From feeding tubes to oxygen tanks, relentless hospital admissions to moments of joyful chaos, Hayley brings a powerful blend of vulnerability and humour. She opens up about grief, guilt, medical trauma, and what it means to truly see and celebrate your child’s abilities.
Hayley’s story is more than a journey through the NDIS and disability advocacy. It’s a masterclass in fierce love, community strength, and reshaping what we think life "should" look like.
🎧 Trigger warning: This episode includes themes of medical trauma and mental health. If you need support, please contact Lifeline at 13 11 14.
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Socials
Alee Disability IG @aleedisabilityss
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/hayley-thiele-88b111329/
Alee Disability Support Services Website: https://aleedisability.com/