Ms SPENCE (Yuroke) — I am very pleased to acknowledge the work of an exceptional young woman in my electorate of Yuroke. Jessica Clear of Craigieburn was born with autism, an intellectual disability and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a rare connective tissue disorder that, among other symptoms, causes seizures, joint dislocations and scoliosis. Jessica’s experience with EDS ranges from breaking a thumb while playing a video game to breaking her jaw while sleeping.

Despite these challenges, Jessica has become a published author by the age of 21, with her book entitled Don’t call Me disabled, i’m just like YOU. Her book aims not only to help those who live with autism and intellectual disability but also to raise awareness of those conditions across the broader community. As Jessica says, she cannot give up on working to achieve her goals because if she gives up on herself, she is giving up on others. It is terrific to see someone with such passion and persistence, and I would like to congratulate Jessica on her success and achievements to date.

I also wish Jessica all the best in her crowdfunding campaign to raise funds to access specialist medical treatment in the United States to manage the symptoms of her condition. I am happy to pass on the details of that campaign to anyone who may be interested in helping out.

I would also like to thank my work experience student, Shyniya Chandra, for helping to prepare this statement. Shyniya has done a fantastic job in my office this week, and I wish her all the best for her future.