5 minute read
Staff Profile - Amy Frosdick, Team Leader/MND Advisor/Support Coordinator
When did you join MND Queensland, and what inspired you to work with us?
I joined in July 2023 after working as a support coordinator for another organisation for many years. I was drawn to MND Queensland by the mission statement and values of the organisation, and the opportunity to do more for the community.
Can you tell our readers a little about your role as an MND Advisor/Support Coordinator and Team Leader? What does a typical day look like for you?
The role is very varied, which I love! As the team leader it is my role to support the team with anything they need and keep across what is happening for their clients. I also have a case load of my own clients, which I love, as it means I get to still directly support those with MND.
What do you find most rewarding about working at MND Queensland? Are there any moments or experiences that have stood out to you?
The most rewarding part of my role is knowing I am contributing to such positive outcomes for the MND community. The most stand out moment has been watching the NDIS MND pathway come into place. This pathway has cut down waiting times to the NDIS for those with MND and made a huge difference to the lives of our clients.
You’re based in Townsville and work remotely. What region do you cover, and what are some of the unique challenges and rewards of supporting people in North Queensland?
The biggest challenge with working remotely is the risk of feeling disconnected with the rest of the team, luckily I have an amazing team who all work hard to keep connected with each other. The biggest reward is being on the ground with clients. It allows me to get to know the local service providers and hospitals, and build connections with clients who live within my region. However, as we support those with MND throughout the whole state, I do have clients that are remote from me, down to Mackay and inland to Winton. Technology allows me to still build relationships with providers and the hospitals in these areas and keep connected with clients through whichever communication method best suits them.
Before joining MND Queensland, how much did you know about Motor Neurone Disease? What are some of the biggest insights or lessons you’ve gained through your work?
Before joining MND Queensland I knew very little about MND. I had previously supported a few clients with MND but wasn’t given the opportunity to get much knowledge of the disease. The biggest insight for me was how different it is for every single person diagnosed, there is no one definitive path the disease will take for each person.
What do you think sets MND Queensland’s services apart? How do you see them making a real difference in the lives of people impacted by MND?
MND Queensland services are unique in that our services team only support those with MND. Our Advisors and Support Coordinators, and Allied Health team are highly knowledgeable about MND and only look after those living with this disease. The difference this makes to those living with MND is a true understanding of what they are living with.
Over the last few years, MND Queensland has expanded its services across the State, with Advisors and Support Coordinators now based in multiple regions. From your perspective, what are the biggest benefits of having local support available?
Having a local Advisor and Support Coordinator means that we are able to be on the ground with clients and meet with them face-to-face. Being able to build this relationship is so important for clients going through the MND journey. This also allows us to host more face-to-face support groups in more areas of Queensland.
Working in this field can be emotionally demanding. How do you take care of your own wellbeing while supporting others?
My two dogs are my therapy, they are always ready for a cuddle if I need it! Getting outside with them is so important to me to keep my mental and physical wellbeing in check.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies or interests that help you unwind outside of work?
I have three kids ranging from 11 years old to two years old so I lead a very busy life outside of work! They all have different hobbies and activities to get to, so usually I spend my time as a taxi driver. If there is no sports on, we like to go camping and be in the outdoors.
Finally, is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
For those living with this diagnosis and their loved ones, please know you are not alone. Your MND Advisor is here to support you through this time. We also hold regular support groups, both online and in person in some regions. These groups are a great opportunity to connect with others also living with MND and share stories.
