Pride of Australia nominee Karni Liddell puts ‘ability’ back in ‘disability’

KARNI Liddell may not be able to put her hands above her head but that hasn’t stopped her from reaching for the sky.

KARNI Liddell may not be able to put her hands above her head but that hasn’t stopped her from reaching for the sky.

The young woman, who lives with spinal muscular atrophy, a rare and severe genetically transmitted condition, has inspired thousands of people around Australia to live their dreams.

Ms Liddell has dedicated her life to changing people’s perceptions and misconceptions about what people with a disability can or can’t do.

“I really try to emphasise having a disability is not the worst thing that can happen,” she said.

“We have a choice in life and we can make that choice despite our life circumstances.”

The Brisbane woman is continually rushing between her work with the UN, speaking engagements and charity events.

“I’m trying to make it simpler for people to help us, and to know what to do,” she said.

“And I want people with a disability to ask for help. Then you will eventually find someone who believes in your crazy ridiculous idea and will help you get there.”

She said a lot of the time she simply wanted people to treat those with a disability as human beings, recently gaining the spotlight after challenging families to want a “happy” child rather than a “healthy” one.

But Ms Liddell hasn’t let herself be limited physically either, becoming a Paralympic swimmer and breaking a world record aged 14.

From there she competed in two Paralympic Games in 1996 and 2000, winning two bronzes.

She is now preparing Australia’s first disabled team in the World Outrigger Championships.

“Everybody has a choice in life despite life circumstances,” she said.

Do yo know a local legend? Nominate them for a Pride Of Australia medal here.

Nominee Karni Liddell is both a Paralympian and inspirational speaker. Picture: Mark Calleja