For more than two decades I've worked across the disability, health and community sectors, supporting people to communicate, navigate complex systems and live the lives they choose. I believed I understood the challenges people and families faced.

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Then, in 2017, everything changed.

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When my husband became critically ill, I found myself on the other side of the system - not as a professional, but as a primary unpaid carer. Overnight, I experienced the complexity, exhaustion, advocacy and resilience that millions of carers navigate every day. It changed not only my perspective, but also the direction of my work.

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That lived experience has become one of my greatest strengths. It complements my professional background, allowing me to bring both clinical knowledge and genuine understanding to the people and communities I work alongside.

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Today my work spans speech pathology, positive behaviour support, advocacy, celebrancy and public speaking. Through my Care Factor - In Conversation with Sara James and Power to Care podcasts, conference presentations and community leadership, I aim to start honest conversations about care, communication, resilience and the importance of designing systems that work with people, not against them.

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Whether I'm supporting someone with complex communication needs, helping a family navigate services, presenting to professionals, or celebrating life's significant milestones, my goal is always the same: to help people feel heard, valued and empowered.

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I believe real change happens when we listen to lived experience, challenge assumptions and build communities where everyone belongs.

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