We have all heard the success stories and how people with MS have benefited from the national disability insurance scheme, however, there are plenty of cases that aren’t so successful. In 2017 when I first applied, I was rejected. I felt so deflated and defeated at the time. I couldn’t believethat I was deemed not eligible when so many others were receiving assistance which I desperately needed.
After speaking with other MS’ers, I decided to contact the NDIS and ask for a review of their decision. The forms they sent me at the time to appeal their decision were more relevant than the forms to apply in the first place. I learnt very quickly that I was going to have to advocate and fight for what I needed. I asked my Neurologist to write me a support letter as well getting as many supporting documents as I could.
After some time, I got the good news that I was approved under Early Intervention. The NDIS was pretty hard to navigate and there have been many new things to learn and adapt to, but I am so very thankful that I have a great team on my side helping me with the supports I need to live a better life.
Any words of encouragement I can give others is not to give up. Do not accept no for an answer.
Fight with evidence and if you’re still rejected, ask for a review of a decision. Don’t be afraid to
ask others for advice and at a last resort it may be beneficial to write a letter or email to your
local member, or even email the Minister of NDIS & Government Services, Bill Shorten
Once you are an approved NDIS participant, I would highly recommend requesting funding for
support coordination. They can help you find supports and also help steer you through your
new NDIS journey. There are loads of companies out there to choose from, but I personally found it easier to go through MS Plus because they understand our diagnosis and challenges.
MS Plus also have services in place to help with pre-planning as well so don’t hesitate to reach
out to them 1800 042 138. Just remember, no seems to be a default answer. You don’t have to accept that as gospel, you can appeal it, and if that is not successful, you can apply for a review by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT).
If you would like to share your story about your
NDIS journey, please email ccms.branch@gmail.com
You can share as much or as little as you like. You
can share the good, and the ugly side of it. But most of all, your story may resonate and help someone else. It’s very important to help and bounce things off each other.
Cover photo by Karolina Grabowdka
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